Seasonal Restoration Crew Lead

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is hiring a Seasonal Restoration Crew Lead to assist in ecological restoration and biodiversity management. The role involves training technicians, coordinating invasive species projects, operating tools, and data collection. This temporary position is based in Mentor, Ohio, with daily travel to work sites, and requires a Bachelor’s degree or related experience. Employment lasts from May to November.
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. For more than a century, the Museum has inspired visitors to connect with the wonders of science and nature. Today, we continue that legacy—and remain committed to sharing our resources to promote a healthy future for both humans and the planet.

As Ohio’s largest natural history museum, we use our vast collections and state-of-the-art facilities to contribute to scientific understanding worldwide. Our scientists conduct research across a variety of disciplines, making groundbreaking discoveries about early human ancestors, ancient Ohio, animal and plant life around the world, and more. We steward more than 12,500 acres of wild habitats through our Natural Areas Program, working to protect the environment of northern Ohio and the diverse species that call it home.

The Museum seeks a dedicated professional to join our Natural Areas team.

Job Summary

As a Restoration Crew Lead, you will be a part of a unique approach to stewardship and biodiversity management. The Lead will assist the Restoration Technicians in the ecological restoration and management of native marsh and swamp forest communities. This position is based out of Mentor, Ohio and includes daily travel to nearby work sites. This is a temporary position working up to 40 hours per week; employment is expected to begin in May and last until November.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation):
• Assist the Restoration Manager in training and leading the Restoration Technicians on day-to-day tasks
• Pre-plan and assist with on-site coordination of contractors and local partners on invasive species treatment projects.
• Operate an amphibious utility task vehicle (UTV)
• Utilize a range of land management and invasive species control techniques, including the operation of appropriate tools and equipment
• Operate and maintain hand and power tools to implement invasive plant management
• Assist with data collection and entry via monitoring and mapping of invasive plant populations and treatment areas
• Analyze GPS and aerial drone mapping surveys and incorporate into GIS maps to prioritize treatment
• Assist in plant identification using taxonomic field guides
• Identify, collect, and disseminate seeds and cuttings to restore marsh habitat
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Education/Experience

Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university; or pursuing a degree in Biology, Botany, Restoration Ecology, or a related field and two years of related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Pesticide Applicator License preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
• Intellectual curiosity and a passion for science, nature, and conservation
• A familiarity with taxonomic keys and/or field identification guides for plants and animals
• Ability to take initiative and lead a team effectively and professionally
• A desire to learn a variety of invasive species management techniques
• A familiarity with the local, native flora and fauna of Northeast Ohio
• Ability to work with an interdisciplinary professional team, including high-level division and department directors
• Excellent time management, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work a flexible schedule that may include evenings and weekends
• Have reliable transportation to commute between work sites across Northeast Ohio

Working Conditions

This position includes working outdoors in all weather conditions, including inclement weather, exposure to biting or stinging insects, and poisonous or prickly plants. Locations may be semi-remote and offer limited access to indoor facilities. Must be able to walk for prolonged periods, navigate physically challenging terrain, and perform strenuous, labor-intensive field work. Must be able to lift 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, ADA EMPLOYER, and a SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE