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18 May 2023

Full-Time Restoration Specialist

The Wetlands Initiative – Posted by Wetlands Hennepin, Illinois, United States

Job Description

The Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is a 3,000-acre mosaic of lakes, marsh, meadows, prairie, savanna, and woodlands. The former floodplain on the Illinois River was restored by the Wetlands Initiative beginning in 2001 to one of the highest quality natural areas in Illinois. The privately owned refuge is open to the public and is now a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, an Audubon Important Bird Area, an Illinois Natural Areas Inventory site, home to an Illinois State Nature Preserve (the Dore Seep Nature Preserve), and a mecca to birders, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the region.

Job description:

The Wetlands Initiative will be hiring a restoration specialist to conduct year-round prairie, wetland, and savanna restoration. This is a full-time position with benefits that is based in Hennepin, IL. This is not an entry level position; we are looking for someone with a minimum 2 years’ experience in restoration work. This is an excellent opportunity to participate in the ongoing restoration and management of a large, high-quality natural area. The normal work week is 40 hours Monday through Friday.

Responsibilities of the successful candidate will include:

  • Identify and manage invasive plant species through the application of herbicides.
  • Identify and remove woody invasive species.
  • Planting and caring for plugs of native plant species.
  • Collecting, processing, and planting native plant seed.
  • Assist in conducting prescribed burns.
  • Assist in conducting plant and animal surveys.
  • Assist in maintaining trails and access for the public.
  • Other tasks associated with landscape restoration and management.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in one or more of the following fields: conservation biology, environmental science, natural resource management, botany, ecology.
  • Interest in Illinois native plants, including basic plant identification skills (knowledge of Illinois flora is preferred).
  • Familiarity with Illinois wildlife, including mammals, birds, herps, fish, and invertebrates.
  • Familiarity with and/or a desire to learn more about ecological restoration.
  • Basic understanding of hydrology.
  • Herbicide applicators license or ability to pass the Illinois Pesticide Applicator exam within four weeks of employment.
  • Prescribed burn certification, S-130 or equivalent, or ability to obtain certification within 90 days of employment.
  • Good physical condition, with the ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs.
  • Ability to work outside under adverse weather conditions, i.e., cold, heat, wet.
  • Ability to use power tools, including sprayers, brush cutters, power augers, and/or chainsaws following completion of appropriate training.
  • The desire to learn more about Illinois native habitats and their restoration.
  • A friendly manner, good disposition, and a willingness to be a team player.

 

Compensation and benefits:

This is a position with full benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance coverage. Compensation is $40,000 per year.

How to Apply

Send resume and cover letter to The Wetlands Initiative at [email protected] or 53 W Jackson Blvd, Ste 1015, Chicago, IL 60604.

Job Categories: Conservation. Job Types: Full-Time. Salaries: See posting for details.

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