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Southern Illinois Restoration Technician

Who We Are:

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff, or visit Glassdoor.

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

What We Can Achieve Together:

The Restoration Technician works as part of the Southern Illinois Interagency Habitat and Fuels Crew, assisting with non-native invasive species (NNIS) management on the Shawnee National Forest. As part of our team, you will perform chemical and mechanical treatments on invasive plants, along with associated inventory, monitoring, and data collection activities. Your work will help to protect and restore forests, grasslands, and wetlands across a large geographic area.

Responsibilities & Scope:

Safe handling, transportation, mixing, application, storage and clean-up of herbicides and application equipment.
Operation and maintenance of backpack sprayers and high-volume pumps for herbicide application.
May work in hot and humid conditions at remote locations with difficult and hazardous terrain.
Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
May require long hours in isolated settings; and early start times to avoid working during the hottest part of the day.
May occasionally work without supervision.

This is a short-term, full-time (35 hours a week) position based in Carterville, Illinois running May through August, with the potential to extend into the fall. We have multiple positions available.

We’re Looking for You:

Are you a recent graduate or looking for a summer job while working towards your degree in forestry, conservation, environmental sciences, or a similar field? The Nature Conservancy in Illinois is looking for hard-working nature enthusiasts that are ready to make a difference in an ecologically diverse and unique landscape. As part of our team, you’ll learn from and network with seasoned professionals while gaining hands-on experience and skills in ecological restoration for the next step in your conservation career!

What You’ll Bring:

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
Experience working in a team environment.
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, pesticide applicator).

Desired Qualifications:

Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
1 - 2 years’ experience in land management or related field.
Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
Ability to follow instructions from supervisor, colleagues, and partners.
PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding.

What We Bring:

Since 1951, The Nature Conservancy has been doing work you can believe in protecting the lands and waters that all life depends on. Through grassroots action, TNC has grown to become one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff, we impact conservation throughout the world!

For short-term positions, TNC offers a benefits package that includes: personal and sick leave; paid holidays; 401(k) eligible; access to learning and development opportunities; employee discounts through partner programs; and other life and work wellbeing benefits.

We’re proud to offer a work-environment that is supportive of the health, wellbeing, and flexibility needs of the people we employ!

Auto Safety Policy:

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/careers/recruitment/ under the FAQ section.

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Salary Information:

The starting pay for a candidate selected for this position is $18.00 per hour (subject to required tax withholding). This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.