Field Natural Resource Specialist — GIS & Education

AmeriCorps; Belvidere (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Subsidized housing

Living stipend

Education award

Health coverage

Childcare assistance

Job summary

AmeriCorps in Belvidere, IL seeks members for hands-on natural resources work, including seed collection, propagation, and habitat restoration. Training is provided for herbicide application and prescribed burns, with safety and certification support.

Members will propagate native species, map the project area using GIS, and participate in public education programs. A valid driver’s license and ability to obtain pesticide certification are required, with a flexible schedule for fieldwork.

Qualifications

• Must be 18+ years old with a valid driver’s license.
• Ability to obtain Illinois pesticide applicator certification within 30 days (paid for by BCCD).
• Knowledge of native and invasive plant species.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a crew.

Responsibilities

• Collect seed from native plant species and conduct cleaning.
• Apply herbicides with training provided.
• Cut and remove non-native trees and shrubs with hand tools (including chainsaws).
• Assist with prescribed burns (training provided).
• Propagate and plant native species in field and greenhouse settings.
• Create and use maps with GIS programs.

Skills

Driver's license

Native/invasive species knowledge

Effective written/verbal communication

Independent and team work

Education

Illinois pesticide applicator certification (within 30 days)

Tools

GIS maps

GIS software

Job description

AmeriCorps in Belvidere, IL seeks members for hands-on natural resources work, including seed collection, propagation, and habitat restoration. Training is provided for herbicide application and prescribed burns, with safety and certification support.

Members will propagate native species, map the project area using GIS, and participate in public education programs. A valid driver’s license and ability to obtain pesticide certification are required, with a flexible schedule for fieldwork.