Habiat Technician II

Woodlands Conservancy; Belle Chasse (LA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Woodlands Conservancy in the Greater New Orleans area is seeking an experienced Habitat Technician to implement habitat restoration within a 650-acre forested preserve. Tasks include brush removal, invasive species control, site prep for planting plots, planting seedlings and containerized trees, conducting surveys, tagging trees, and maintaining equipment.

The role involves leading staff and volunteers, weekend work, and potential extension depending on funding; approximately 32–40 hours per

Qualifications

• Field experience operating chainsaws, brush cutters, herbicide sprayers, UTVs, trailers, backpack sprayers.
• Ability to identify invasive and native plant species.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills; physically fit and detail oriented.
• Valid driver's license required; ability to operate tractors, ATVs, and UTVs.

Responsibilities

• Implement habitat restoration projects on a 650-acre preserve.
• Brush removal and invasive species control.
• Site preparation for planting plots and planting seedlings/containers.
• Conduct surveys and tag trees.
• Lead and supervise staff, volunteers, and interns.
• Operate equipment including chainsaws, bush hogs, and sprayers; perform maintenance.
• Some weekend work required; potential for permanent role with funding.

Skills

Chainsaw operation

Brush control

Herbicide spraying

UTV operation

Tree/plant identification

Data entry

Team leadership

Driver's license

Ecological restoration

Tools

Chainsaws

Backpack sprayers

Trailers

Tractor

ATV

UTV

Job description

Job Type

Full-time, temporary, with possible extension

Salary

$18-21 per hour

Time Period

October – April 2026 (possible extension)

About Woodlands Conservancy

Woodlands Conservancy (WC) is a nonprofit land trust, organized in 2001 to preserve and restore forested wetlands and other ecologically or historically significant lands. Preservation tools include protecting lands of high conservation value through fee title acquisition or the acceptance of a donated conservation servitude. The organization currently owns 840-acres of forested wetlands in the Greater New Orleans area. Woodlands Conservancy involves students and community volunteers in forest restoration and bird banding activities. The 650-acre Woodlands Preserve site provides interpretive nature trails that are free and open to the public and a setting in which community programming can foster an understanding and appreciation for the wildlife and migratory birds that depend on this dwindling habitat.

Summary of Position

The Conservancy is seeking an experienced Habitat Technician to assist in implementing habitat restoration projects within a 650-acre, forested, nature preserve that the Conservancy owns. Projects include brush removal, invasive species control, site prep for planting plots, planting seedlings and containerized trees, conducting surveys, tagging trees, leading and supervising staff, volunteers and/or interns, chainsaw and bush hog operation, herbicide application, and equipment maintenance with approximately 95% of time spent in the field on restoration projects. Some weekend days will be required. This position may become permanent depending on available funding.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Prior field experience using and maintaining chainsaws, brush cutters, herbicide sprayers, UTV’s, trailers, backpack sprayers, shovels, rakes, etc. for extended periods of time
• Plant and tree identification skills for both invasive and native species
• Successful candidates will be highly motivated, hardworking, physically fit, flexible, and detail oriented
• Ability to drive and operate a tractor, ATV and UTV.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Strong work ethic & positive attitude
• Experience identifying and managing forest and wetland habitats
• Experience leading others on habitat improvement projects
• Ability to accurately and efficiently complete data entry and various administrative tasks as needed
• A solid understanding of and experience with ecological restoration principles
• Experience leading a field crew on land management and restoration projects preferred

Details

The successful candidate will work approximately 32 – 40 hours/week dependent on weather conditions and land management priorities and will be paid $18 - 21/hr. Planting season from mid-November through mid-March may require more than 32 hours/week depending on the weather. The hours worked each week may be less than 40 when weather conditions prevent field work activities. Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. Possible extension of position beyond March.