Ecological Restoration Technician I, Shaw Nature Reserve

The Ecological Restoration Technician I position at Shaw Nature Reserve involves managing native biodiversity and ecological restoration across 2,400 acres. Key responsibilities include controlling invasive species, collecting native seeds, operating machinery, and participating in prescribed fire programs. The role requires 1-3 years of relevant experience, a degree in a related field, and effective communication skills. This position is based in Gray Summit, MO, and is not remote.
About the position

Ecological Restoration Technicians gain experience in native biodiversity management and ecological restoration in a diverse array of habitat types across the 2,400 acres of Shaw Nature Reserve. This position develops and applies skills to control invasive species, identify plants and collect native seed, operate chainsaws, tractors, skid loaders, and other power equipment and implements. They works with volunteers conducting ecological restoration, participates in prescribed fire program, maintains site management records, and assists with other site management and restoration activities.

Responsibilities

Controls invasive species through the use of manual, mechanical, and/or chemical methods including chainsaw operation.Participates in prairie, woodland, and glade restoration efforts by collecting, cleaning, and sowing seeds. Maintains seed lists and databases.Assists in all aspects of prescribed fire program including fire break preparation, scouting, monitoring and implementation.Operates skid loaders and tractors in a safe and effective manner, as per manufacturer’s manual and following OSHA guidelines.Works directly with volunteers on a regular basis.Maintains accurate data entry for database of management activities.Ensures that all applicable safety standards are followed; informs employees/students/volunteers of safety guidelines, methods to reduce hazards.Reports all accidents, injuries and near-miss accidents immediately.Meets expected attendance guidelinesFollows and adheres to established policies and procedures, including but not limited to Employee Handbook, Garden Safety Guidelines and Department Policies.Behaves and communicates in a manner that promotes and fosters a culture of teamwork and cooperation, within our division and throughout the Garden, with co-workers, supervisors/managers, volunteers, visitors and employees.Performs other duties as assigned.Requirements

Minimum one to three (1-3) years’ of relevant experience.Experience in invasive species control.Ability to learn and apply safely operation protocols for use of chainsaws and tractors.Understanding of the ecological role of fire in natural areas and willingness to contribute to prescribed fire operations.Experience with the use of computers for data recording and management.Ability to communicate effectively at all levels; must enjoy and feel comfortable interacting and working in close proximity to the general public to answer questions about ecological restoration in a friendly manner.Associate’s or B.S. degree in biology, ecology, botany, natural resources, or related fieldsAn equivalent combination of education, skills and experience may be considered.Ability to communicate effectively in English (oral/written).Requires ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication and division; calculate percentages and decimals; etc.Requires ability to exercise independent judgment to apply facts and principles for developing approaches and techniques to problem resolution.Experience using Microsoft Office SuiteMust possess and maintain a valid driver's license.Must have the ability to pass a background screening and motor vehicle report (MVR) to meet minimum insurance underwriting criteria.Pesticide Applicator License or ability to obtain a pesticide applicator license within 3 months of the hiring date.First Aid and CPR certifications or ability to obtain these certifications within 3 months of the hiring date.Position requires extensive outdoor work.Works at times with power equipment and/or carrying loads of up to 50 pounds.Ability to utilize computer keyboard (typing).May be required to perform tasks at varying heights (i.e., step stools, etc.)Requires extensive standing, walking, bending, stooping, and reaching for extended periods of time-- 75% or more of the workday is standing on feet.Ability to perform physical labor working indoors and outdoors in all seasons.Ability to work outdoors in temperatures over 100°F as well as temperatures below 0°F, in rain, snow and other inclement weather conditions as needed.Ability to work independently for extended periods in isolated settings.Willingness to work a variable schedule as needed, including occasional weekends.Nice-to-haves

Enthusiasm regarding Missouri natural areas and keen interest in learning native flora is a plus.