Natural areas stewardship technician

Hiring Organization: The University of Michigan, Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum
Employment type: Full-Time
Job Location: Ann Arbor, MI
Application Due Date: August 9, 2021

The University of Michigan, Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum is looking for one full-time temporary (9 month, 2 term limited) Natural Areas Stewardship Technician. This position will report to the Natural Areas Manager and will help with the stewardship of the natural areas of our four properties in support of research, teaching, public outreach and conservation goals. This position is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday with occasional weekend and evening responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Working outdoors, alone or as part of a team, on our four properties
Locating and identifying native and exotic invasive plants
Using herbicides, weed torch, power tools and equipment (including some maintenance), hand tools and various techniques to manage exotic invasive plants
Cutting, dragging and chipping brush. Pulling, bagging and removing exotic invasive weeds
Assisting with prescribed burns
Supervising and leading student interns, work-study students and volunteers
Native plant seed identifying and collection
Using GPS/GIS mapping equipment and programs

Required Qualifications

Associate's degree or higher in a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
A good work ethic, enthusiasm for teamwork and a willingness to learn
Previous experience with landscape care, botany, ecology or ecological restoration
The ability to move and transport up to 40lbs
Must be willing and able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, tolerate biting insects, working around poison ivy and other challenges of field work
An ability or willingness to learn to use a variety of power equipment and hand tools is necessary: tractors, mowers, utility vehicles, chainsaws, brush cutters, wood chipper, etc.
A State of Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License or willingness to obtain one is required (Matthaei-Nichols provides study materials and may cover certification expenses) and a willingness to apply herbicides is necessary
A valid Driver's License and ability to pass a motor vehicle record (MVR) check is required.

Desired Qualifications

Experience with any of the following: Restoration ecology, prescribed burns, herbicide applications, native plant surveys, invasive plant removal, general landscaping work, operating and maintaining power equipment
Previous leadership and supervisory experience
Experience growing and tending a variety of plants

Additional Information

Compensation: $15 per hour

This temporary position may meet eligibility requirements for health care benefits. For more information, please see the eligibility section for temporary employees here.

For more information about Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, please visit mbgna.umich.edu.

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