Lands Steward

~ Founded by the recent merger of four conservation organizations, Midcoast Conservancy's mission is to support and promote healthy lands, waters, wildlife and people in Midcoast Maine through conservation, education and recreation. ~ 

As four small conservation organizations committed to serving our communities, we want to be more effective protectors of natural communities and the resources we all depend upon. In coming together, we expand and improve the quality of our work, reach a broader community and meet a wider range of vital future needs. 

Position Overview 

The Land Steward has responsibility for the monitoring and land management of Midcoast Conservancy's fee and easement properties including Hidden Valley Nature Center, a 1,000-acre property under lease to Midcoast Conservancy.

Periodic work on weekends will be required and after hours will be required. Work-related mileage will be reimbursed. The Land Steward will report to the Director of Conservation. Position will be based out of the Midcoast Conservancy office in Wiscasset with about 50% of time in the field. Start date no later than 1 October.  

Responsibilities 

Basic responsibilities of the Land Steward include:

Conservation Easements (30%)

• Ensure that each Easement is monitored annually with reporting approved and filed per Midcoast Conservancy policy.
• Identify and report potential violations to Conservation Director and assist in followup and remedies.
• Organize and supervise volunteer easement monitors.
• Foster healthy landowner relations.
• Serve as point of contact for questions related to Midcoast Conservancy Easements.

Preserves (50%)

• Ensure all preserves are monitored at least once annually for boundary encroachments and to identify management concerns.
• Ensure annual monitoring reports are appropriately filed.
• Maintain preserve kiosks, signage, and boundary markings.
• Maintain trails, bridges, and parking areas.
• Works closely with Trails and Facilities Associate on large projects as needed.
• Recruit, organize and supervise volunteer preserve monitors and stewardship volunteers to assist with all of the above.
• Assist in the preparation of Preserve Management Plans.
• Work with contractors on forestry, stewardship projects, mowing, plowing, etc.
• Serve as point of contact for questions related to Midcoast Conservancy Preserves.

Office (20%)

• Supervise stewardship interns as needed.
• Work with Director of Conservation to map potential easement and preserve lands and ensure that they can be effectively stewarded if conserved.
• Coordinate and supervise stewardship volunteers (including time tracking and training).
• Enter hours worked into payroll system as required per Midcoast Conservancy Policy.
• Track mileage and expenses according to Midcoast Conservancy Policy.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• Prior stewardship, ecological management, or land management experience.
• Knowledge and ability to operate a chainsaw, brush saw, and hand tools safely - certification is a plus.
• Ability to hike over rough terrain carrying up to 40 pounds of gear and equipment.
• Knowledge and ability to navigate off-trail using a map, compass.
• Knowledge and ability to do basic carpentry and construction (i.e., boardwalk or kiosk repairs).
• Education or experience in trail/woods road maintenance and erosion control.
• Proficiency with basic Office software including Word and Excel.
• Ability to communicate clearly and succinctly in writing and orally.
• Valid vehicle driver's license and personal vehicle with proof of insurance.
• Interest and ability to recruit, organize and supervise volunteers.
• Ability to work effectively with town and state officials.
• Ability to work or attend meetings outside normal business hours (nights and weekends) occasionally.
• Ability to manage work time efficiently with minimal supervision.

Desired

• Familiarity with ArcGIS, Google Earth and GPS
• Experience writing and administering grants
• Environmental Science, Natural History, or Ecological Management background
• Knowledge of local geography and other conserved lands
• Valid First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification

Compensation: The position is salaried based on a 35-hour work week. Benefits include sick and annual leave, retirement plan, and health insurance. 

To Apply

Please click below: "Apply Now Online!" to email your resume and cover letter to kristin@midcoastconservancy.org. Deadline for applications is 5:00 PM, Wednesday August 31, 2016. Midcoast Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer