Ranger/ Restoration Specialist

The Wildlands Conservancy, a private non-profit land trust dedicated to outdoor education, habitat preservation, ecological restoration and providing nature-oriented outdoor recreation opportunities to the public, seeks a Ranger/ Restoration Specialist at the Wind Wolves Preserve in San Joaquin Valley, CA. This is an outdoor job, working in all weather conditions.

The successful candidate will become part of a team working in land stewardship, public visitation and facilities development. A special emphasis of this position will be exotic plant eradication, habitat restoration, and providing natural history interpretation during Preserve tours.

Compensation:

Employment begins with a 90-day introductory period, and is contingent upon passing a pre-appointment physical exam. If performance is satisfactory during the introductory period, the position will convert to regular status with benefits. Full-time, 40 hours/week. Hourly wage depends upon experience: $15.00 max.

Benefits:

Following successful completion of a 90 day Introductory Period, benefit package includes: Medical Benefits, 401k Retirement Plan, 10 days Paid Vacation, 5 days Sick Leave, Holidays.

Duties (Experience Required):

*  Exotic plant eradication work, often including application of herbicides.
*  Work in ongoing oak restoration program, including the planting of acorns or seedlings, and the installation and maintenance of drip irrigation systems.
*  Greet public visitors, provide information, ensure their safety, and enforce rules and regulations of the Preserve.
*  Assist in leading natural history tours.
*  Patrol the Preserve, providing protection and security to the land and its resources.
*  Assist in construction/landscaping of new facilities, campgrounds, picnic areas and trails.
*  Repair and maintenance of buildings, facilities, landscaping, irrigation systems, and equipment (weed eaters, mowers, vehicles, generators, etc.).
*  Assist in fighting wildfires as necessary (we provide additional training).
*  Janitorial work in office and restrooms.
*  Various other duties as assigned by Preserve Manager.

Qualifications:

*  Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences or related field; OR at least three years appropriate work experience.
*  Excellent physical condition, capable of performing strenuous work outdoors in all weather.
*  Must possess some trade skills, including: carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, and equipment repair and maintenance.
*  Able to perform all landscape maintenance tasks, including: operation of weed eaters and mowers, weeding, raking, digging, and installation and maintenance of irrigation systems.
*  Able to competently and safely operate a 4x4 vehicle on extreme road conditions.
*  Knowledge of ecology, natural history, and methodologies for exotic plant eradication and habitat restoration.
*  Good people skills: Outgoing, friendly, able to effectively deal with difficult situations.
*  A positive and dedicated person who believes in our conservation mission.
*  Ability to speak Spanish would be a plus.

To Apply:

Serious, well-qualified applicants may fax or email a detailed resume and cover letter addressing your experience and qualifications relative to the job requirements, to David Clendenen.  You MUST also provide job-related references.