Ecological Restoration Land Steward

SER; Kennett Square (Chester County); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Longwood Gardens seeks a Land Steward to manage conservation and enhancement of its natural resources and landscapes. You will promote ecological function, biodiversity, and aesthetic beauty while supporting horticultural and programmatic needs across diverse lands.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in natural land stewardship, ecology knowledge, and experience supervising students and volunteers. Will work outdoors in varying conditions and operate field equipment safely.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Science, Horticulture, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in natural land stewardship or ecological restoration.
• Demonstrated knowledge of ecology, land stewardship, and natural resource management principles.
• Experience supervising or directing the work of students and volunteers.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to operate equipment and tools safely (tractor with PTO, skid loader, chainsaws, etc).
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to wear respirator and PPE.
• Experience with scientific data collection, analysis, and technical writing.
• Strong knowledge of native plant communities, wildlife species, and ecosystems of southeastern PA and Mid-Atlantic.
• Experience with GIS or mapping software.
• PA Pesticide Applicator’s License and Forklift Operator Certification or the ability to obtain within six months.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOT Physical Qualification Card.

Responsibilities

• Managing land stewardship projects to conserve biodiversity and ecosystem health across Longwood's natural lands.
• Developing project plans and leading implementation with supervisors and stakeholders.
• Coordinating with staff, contractors, students, and volunteers to complete stewardship projects safely and efficiently.
• Supervising and mentoring students and volunteers engaged in stewardship activities.
• Conducting land stewardship tasks including native plant installation, invasive species management, habitat restoration, trail maintenance, wildlife management support, and ecological research support.
• Implementing invasive species control using manual, mechanical, and herbicide methods per regulations.
• Assisting with ecological monitoring, data collection, and research projects.
• Safely operating and maintaining equipment (tractors, skid loaders, chainsaws, etc).
• Sharing ecological knowledge and best practices with staff and guests.
• Contributing to innovative stewardship techniques and operational improvements.
• Supporting special projects, seasonal displays, weather response, and other initiatives as needed.
• Willingness to work weekends, evenings, holidays, and non-standard hours.

Skills

Ecology knowledge

Land stewardship

Project coordination

Supervising volunteers

Safety compliance

Equipment operation

Computer literacy

Education

Ecology related degree

Natural Resources Management degree

Environmental Science degree

Horticulture degree

Tools

GIS Software

Environmental data analysis tools

Job description

Longwood Gardens seeks a Land Steward to manage conservation and enhancement of its natural resources and landscapes. You will promote ecological function, biodiversity, and aesthetic beauty while supporting horticultural and programmatic needs across diverse lands.

The ideal candidate has 3+ years in natural land stewardship, ecology knowledge, and experience supervising students and volunteers. Will work outdoors in varying conditions and operate field equipment safely.