Conservation Specialist

~ The Michigan Nature Association (MNA) is a nonprofit conservation organization working to protect Michigan's rare, threatened and endangered species by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive. ~

Established in 1952, MNA's members, donors, and volunteers have built a remarkable network of more than 170 nature sanctuaries across the state – the largest network of natural areas established and maintained by a nonprofit conservation organization in Michigan.

Position Overview

The Michigan Nature Association, a statewide land conservancy headquartered in Okemos, Michigan, is seeking an exceptional candidate for a Conservation Specialist position. MNA protects a vast network of over 175 nature sanctuaries, totaling over 12,000 acres, across 60 counties. Many of the sanctuaries house rare habitats and species and are managed to protect their viability. For more information on MNA, please see our website.

Responsibilities

• Assist with annual monitoring of MNA sanctuaries in the southern lower peninsula region, and ensure completed monitoring reports are received in the main office
• Lead and assist volunteer stewards implementing sanctuary management plans across the region
• Lead volunteer workdays and recruit new volunteers
• Ensure trails and entrances/parking areas are safe and in good repair with adequate signage
• Perform ecological management tasks, primarily invasive species removal
• Work with MNA supervisor on trespass and human encroachment issues as directed
• Assist MNA supervisor and regional staff with sanctuary management tasks as needed
• Track personal and volunteer hours and report these to the main office
• Safely operate and maintain MNA stewardship tools including chainsaw, brush cutter, herbicide wands and backpacks

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Progress toward or completion of a degree in environmental science, natural resource management, or related field; or equivalent work experience
• Exceptional self-motivation and work ethic; ability to accomplish assigned tasks under minimal supervision
• Ability to perform physically demanding work outside, in a wide range of weather conditions and terrains, involving sometimes unpleasant factors such as heat, humidity, precipitation, mud, insects, poison ivy, and others. Must be capable of lifting 50 lbs.
• Basic knowledge of biology, ecology, and typical native Michigan habitats
• Ability to communicate professionally and politely with MNA staff, volunteers, sanctuary visitors, and the general public
• Valid driver’s license

Desired Qualifications:

• Possession of or willingness to obtain a Michigan Pesticide Applicator license
• Experience operating and maintaining power tools
• Experience working with volunteers

Compensation

• $13/hour + mileage reimbursement

Additional Information

• Location: This is a field-based position. Work will occur at MNA sanctuaries across Michigan’s southernmost counties, with occasional travel to other regions of the lower peninsula
• Time Commitment: Part-time, hourly, temporary – applicants should be available 32 hours / 4 days per week
• Duration: 14 -16 weeks, May-September 2019, start and end dates are flexible
• Reports to: Stewardship Coordinator

To Apply

• Please click "Apply" below to upload your cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 references via e-mail to Rachel Maranto, Stewardship Coordinator or mail to: Stewardship Coordinator, Michigan Nature Association, 2310 Science Parkway, Suite 100, Okemos, MI 48864.
• Applications will be accepted until February 15, 2019, or until the position has been filled.

~ The Michigan Nature Association is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. ~