Natural Resources Technician

~ At the Forest Preserve District of Kane County our mission is to acquire, hold and maintain lands in Kane County that contribute to the preservation of natural  and historic resources, flora and fauna; and to restore, restock, protect and preserve such lands for the education and pleasure of all its citizens. ~ 

Position Summary

The Natural Resources Department has four (4) intern/seasonal Natural Resources Technician positions available for the 2019 summer season.

The hours are 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday; and may include some Saturdays and evenings. Starting salary range is $10.00 per hour.

Responsibilities

Essential Duties:

• Assist the field staff with natural areas management tasks including, but not limited to exotic species management, sign posting, and seed harvesting for on-going restoration activities.
• Assist the field staff in restoration assessment and planning.
• Assist District staff with vegetation inventories, plant identification, site mapping, and data collection leading to the preparation of typed summaries, graphed and charts detailing plant community assessments.
• Assist staff with biological research projects such as rare plant monitoring and monitoring reptile populations.
• Assist with District-wide garlic mustard management (weed-whipping & herbicide application).
• Assist with District-wide purple loosestrife management (herbicide application or beetle release).
• Work independently on seed collecting & processing.
• Participate in planting & seeding projects.

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic, courteous, positive attitude and team spirit.
• Must be a full-time college student or a recent graduate from an accredited school with one-year minimum course work in biology, botany, environmental science or education or related field.
• Computer skills - experience with common computer software including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions (including exposure to allergens, heat, humidity, biting insects, and poisonous plants).
• Possess a working knowledge of the flora of northeastern Illinois and familiarity with the characteristics of regional woodland, prairie and wetland communities. Understanding of a broad range of ecological concepts and a willingness to learn in a variety of settings.
• Experience with or a willingness to learn safe operation of gas powered weed whips.
• Possess or be willing to acquire Illinois Pesticide Applicator license.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Current and valid Illinois driver’s license that is free from suspension or revocation during term of employment; must maintain insurability with the District’s fleet carrier.
• Employment is subject to successful results of a criminal history background investigation and satisfactory completion of a physical and drug screen.

To Apply

• Please click "Apply on Company Website" as all candidates below to apply online. 
• Applicants must include a resume and a cover letter. 
• Position is open until filled.