Natural Areas Management Seasonal Technician/Intern

Summary

Pottawattamie County Conservation is hiring for the position of Natural Areas Management Seasonal Technician/Intern. 

Individuals in this position are responsible for assisting the Natural Resource Specialist and/or the Natural Resource Technician with the management of assigned County parks and/or properties in accordance with Conservation Board policies, state laws, and standard conservation practices.  

This position operates from mid-May through mid-August, schedule permitting. Pottawattamie County Conservation is committed to helping grow the next generation of natural resources leaders. If interested applicants are looking to fulfill requirements of an internship, we are happy to engage in education requirements needed.

Non-standard workweek that will include holidays, evenings and weekends. Professionalism and good public relations are essential, as is time management. Job performance evaluations will be completed.  

Work location will primarily be at Hitchcock Nature Center but may be expected to serve other Pottawattamie County park and recreation areas including Arrowhead Park, Narrows River Park, Botna Bend Park, Old Town Park, Farm Creek Public Wildlife Area, Wheeler Grove Conservation Area and other smaller areas and other duties as assigned.

Please attach both a resume and a cover letter with your application.  

Application review will begin February 14, 2025.  

Essential Functions

Tree and brush removal using chainsaws, brush cutters, other machinery, and hand labor.

 

Invasive species control using herbicide, hand labor, and other tools.

 

Implementation of prescribed fire as part of a crew.

 

Trail maintenance and sustainability.

Assist with the management of county parks including ecological restoration, habitat management, general maintenance and public relations.  

 

Assist with implementation of prescribed fire.

 

Perform road and trail maintenance duties such as storm clean-up, tree cutting, erosion control, blading and filling holes.

 

Perform routine building maintenance and clean work area on a daily basis.

 

Assist with facilities construction and improvements.

 

Assist with the development and presentation of educational programs, projects, and events that promote conservation ethics, and natural resource appreciation.

 

Assist with the supervision of seasonal staff and volunteers.

Perform other functions as directed or as the situation dictates.

Essential Knowledge, Experience, and Ability

General knowledge of and/or ability to learn principles of conservation, wildlife, and fish management and natural resource preservation.

 

General knowledge of the care and safe operation of both manual and power tools and equipment used in maintenance and repair tasks.

 

General knowledge of routine maintenance and repair to equipment, grounds, and facilities.

 

General knowledge of various outdoor recreational activities, such as boating, hiking, camping, hunting, fishing and canoeing.

 

Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions.

 

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, various civic organizations, and the general public.

 

Ability to learn plant identification (grasses, plants, trees, and invasive species).

 

Ability to be proficient with chainsaw operation, tree felling and safety.

 

Ability to work in a variety of extreme environments (inclement weather, extreme temperatures, hazardous terrain, brambles, insects, full sun, etc.).

 

Ability to perform strenuous physical labor for extended periods.

 

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

 

Essential Education, Certification, and/or Licenses

Must have a valid driver’s license and maintain it throughout the course of employment.  Must have a good driving record.

 

The incumbent cannot have been convicted of a felony in the past 2 years.

 

Pursuing a degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, or any related field is preferred.

 

CPR and basic first aid certification is preferred.

Be willing to become a certified wildland firefighter (S-130/190).

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