Kankakee Sands Restoration Technician
Kankakee Sands Illinois Restoration Technician
Who We Are:
The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our Mission and guided by our Values, which includes a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s lots of reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube or on Glassdoor.
Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging, and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our Mission by hiring and engaging a diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we work. In addition to the requirements in our postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is a key to innovation and a culture of inclusion! Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote myriad TNC staff members, “you’ll join for our mission, and you’ll stay for our people.”
What We Can Achieve Together:
The Kankakee Sands Restoration Technician will perform as part of our burn crew to implement prescribed fire; transplant native plants; harvest, clean, and process seed; and control invasive species using brush cutters, chainsaws, and herbicide applied from UTV’s and backpack sprayers and learn how to use GPS and GIS to map applications. They assist with preserve management including upkeep of trails, fencing, signs, and bison viewing area; and participate in events, interact with visitors, and work with volunteers.
Responsibilities & Scope:
- May interact with visitors and volunteers.
- Works under close or infrequent supervision.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations for long periods of time in isolated settings, on difficult and hazardous terrain, under physically demanding circumstances, requiring considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
- Irregular work hours and long days, particularly during spring and fall fire season.
This is a short-term, full-time (35 hours), field position based at our Kankakee Sands preserve in Illinois and Indiana, with a Field Office in Morocco, Indiana, lasting approximately 6 months starting around May 2025. There are multiple positions available.
We’re Looking for You:
The Nature Conservancy in Illinois is looking for a Kankakee Sands Restoration Technician to work with our dedicated team in protecting what is becoming a destination spot for visitors in Indiana. Started over 25 years ago, the Efroymson Restoration at Kankakee Sands has grown to over 8000 acres of prairie, wetland, and savanna habitat. It’s among the largest grassland restorations in the US, part of a larger bi-state conservation area that exceeds 25,000 acres, and home to a bison herd that contribute to the function of the prairie ecosystem. You’ll assist our staff in maintaining this beautiful landscape and gain some valuable experience while building your skills and knowledge for the next steps in your conservation career!
What You’ll Bring:
- High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience
- Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
- Meets, or willing and able to obtain, minimum TNC NWCG training for Basic Wildland Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including the physical fitness requirements at the arduous level.
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 $17.00 an 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.
Apply Now:
To apply for job ID 56150, submit your materials online by using the Apply Now button at https://careers.nature.org/. Need help applying? Visit our recruitment page or contact applyhelp@tnc.org.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to diversity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization that reflects our global character is a priority and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.