Role OverviewThe Prairie Conservation Steward is responsible for implementing a Management, Stewardship, and Ecological Restoration plan for Gensburg-Markham Prairie in accordance with the requirements for a Dedicated Illinois Nature Preserve and a National Natural Landmark. The position also supports research, educational, and outreach activities in partnership with internal and external stakeholders.
What You Will Do
The Steward will make management decisions based on accepted ecological principles, collect and distribute native plant seeds, and translocate and monitor imperiled plants and animals. They will also use mowers, brushcutters, chainsaws, and backpack sprayers to cut, remove, and herbicide invasive plant species.
Why It Might Be a Fit
The Steward will develop and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including The Nature Conservancy, and will contribute to and support TNC-led stewardship and management activities across the broader Markham Shkode Prairies system and Chicago Wilderness.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Prescribed burning experience or willingness to learn and obtain NWCG certifications
- Skill in identifying Midwest US plant species or willingness to learn
- Herbicide applicators license or willingness to obtain one
- Experience safely operating a range of equipment
- Experience in media engagement and communicating effectively with the public and diverse stakeholders
- Familiarity with the application of social justice principles to environmental work
- Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience
Benefits
- State of Illinois benefits
- Health, dental, and vision benefits
- Sick and vacation days
- Participation in the State Universities Retirement System
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