Parkland Technician (Seasonal)

The Grand Traverse Conservation District is looking to fill one (1) Parkland Technician position for the 2024 field season with preference given to those available to serve the full 24-week term.  Consideration will also be given to those interested in a shorter length term, including a possible internship.  

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Parkland Technician works with members of the Conservation Team to further the mission of the Grand Traverse Conservation District (GTCD) by supporting the activities of the Conservation Team, led by the Director of Conservation. Primary responsibilities include trail and parkland maintenance, hands-on construction projects, invasive species control, river stewardship, and implementation of habitat improvements across parklands and within the Boardman-Ottaway River Watershed.

RELATIONSHIPS 

Reports to: Director of Conservation, Parkland Stewards 

Works with: Conservation Team and volunteers 

External Stakeholders: Park users, Nature Center visitors, Nature Center program participants, landowners, work crews, and partner organizations.  

RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Monitor and maintain GTCD-managed parklands to ensure they offer safe and enjoyable recreational experiences for users 
• Implement annual work plan projects on parklands, including construction projects and trail work  
• Aid in the restoration of terrestrial and riparian habitat within the Boardman River Watershed 
• Assist with securing materials, labor, and contractors as necessary for each project 
• Assist in leading volunteers, service organizations, and school groups in community stewardship efforts 
• Maintain and service GTCD-owned equipment and vehicles on a routine basis 
• Assist with GTCD programs and special events, including workbees, the Native Plant sale and Seedling Sale, and educational outreach opportunities  
• Support administrative and other duties as required 

STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE   

Success is measured by the degree to which the individual: 

• Is punctual and prepared to work  
• Provides safe and sustainable trails for the enjoyment of all park users 
• Creates and maintains a safe work environment 
• Completes work in a timely and quality fashion 
• Exhibits ability to work well with others 
• Represents the Conservation District in a positive and professional manner at all times

WORKING CONDITIONS 

GTCD’s offices are located at the Boardman River Nature Center in Traverse City, MI. The Parkland Technician will frequently be in the field, which may involve traversing uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of air temperatures and weather and may require lifting equipment and materials of up to 70 pounds. The Parkland Technician may frequently be in the vicinity of crews using tools and power equipment and will be involved in doing so her/himself. Employee must be able to perform all job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE 

Related Work Experience 

• Experience using basic landscaping equipment such as riding & push lawn mowers, brush hogs, weed whips, chainsaws, leaf blowers, etc
• Experience using basic hand tools and construction equipment such as various types of saws, drills, generators, and augers 
• Familiarity & proficiency with natural ecosystem processes and plant species identification. 
• Background in Natural Resources

Skills 

• Strong organizational skills 
• Strong and proven leadership skills and positive team-player
• Proficient in use of PC, Microsoft Office and Google Workspace programs
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language 
• Exhibits excellent social and interpersonal skills; relates effectively to diverse clientele and work groups 
• Must be able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain 
• Competent in backing-up a truck and trailer 

Other 

• Able to work flexible hours when appropriate and with approval 
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license 
• Position contingent to passing a background check

COMPENSATION 

The Parkland Technician is a full-time seasonal position working up to 40 hours/week for up to 24 weeks. This is a FLSA non-exempt position with some weekends and later evenings being required. The wage range for this position is $15 - $17/hour which is dependent upon experience ; seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits. PREFERRED START DATE: Monday, April 15, 2024 (Flexible)

TO APPLY 

Please email completed GTCD application, resume, and cover letter stating your suitability for the position based on required knowledge and skills to Parklands Steward Reb Ratliff at [email protected]. No calls please. The application can be found on the GTCD website at www.natureiscalling.org/about/employment.

Applications must be received no later than 11:59 pm EST Sunday, March 10, 2024, or until filled.

Grand Traverse Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate in employment, promotions, or compensation on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.