Natural Resources Maintenance Technician

City of Hillsboro; Oregon (WI); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bilingual pay incentives

Wellness reimbursements

TriMet annual Hop pass

Recreation access for family

Job summary

City of Hillsboro is seeking a Natural Resources Maintenance Technician to assist in restoration, maintenance of natural areas, and education for public trail users. You will support habitat projects, maintain trails, and help with Hillsboro Community Gardens Program sites.

The role emphasizes working in the field, using a range of hand and power tools, and collaborating with a small team on projects and events. A valid driver’s license is required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED plus 1 year related experience.
• Valid, current driver’s license and safe driving record.
• Experience in natural areas maintenance is preferred.
• Ability to operate a variety of hand and power tools.

Responsibilities

• Maintain appearance and cleanliness of parking lots, toilets, and trails by removing garbage and debris.
• Maintain trails to be navigable for all abilities including clipping and mowing.
• Operate powered tools like push-mowers and string-trimmers for clearing areas.
• Assist with loading, unloading, and placing nursery plant material in restoration areas.
• Support community stewardship and volunteer events across Jackson Bottom.
• Interact respectfully with patrons and provide information as needed.
• Work both independently and as part of a small team.

Skills

Species identification

Knowledge of natural resources

Customer service

Tool operation

Landscaping experience

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Hand & power tools

Motorized equipment (tractors)

Job description

About this Opportunity

As a Natural Resources Maintenance Technician, you will be the primary staff assisting in the restoration and maintenance of natural areas, perform trail and parking lot sweeps, educate public trail users about the appropriate use of Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, assist with habitat stewardship projects, provide maintenance support for the Hillsboro Community Gardens Program sites, and collaborate with the Jackson Bottom team on projects and set-up for outdoor education programs and events.

Nestled within the city limits of Hillsboro, Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve spans 635 acres, offering a unique wildlife preserve experience. From interpretive education on wetlands and wildlife to panoramic views, natural resource management, trails, and recreation, Jackson Bottom is a regional treasure. Join our team and be part of an environment where we value connecting water, wildlife, and people through meaningful experiences.

The Natural Resources Maintenance Technician falls under the general Parks Maintenance Technician Job Classification. For full job classification details, click here: Parks Maintenance Technician.

What You Will Be Doing

As a Natural Resources Maintenance Technician your duties and responsibilities include implementing and providing support for natural area restoration efforts, including the removal of garbage or debris, vegetation control, delivery of materials, and planting.

You will be working independently in the field, repairing/installing fences and signs, and clearing trails using a wide variety of hand and power tools.

In addition to executing ongoing restoration maintenance tasks in natural areas and maintaining trails and amenities, you will have the opportunity to assist with supporting the Hillsboro Community Gardens Program, which often requires small projects like raised bed or shed repairs. Our staff are characterized by creativity, dedication, and a commitment to fostering inclusion.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Maintain the appearance and cleanliness of the facility parking lots, vault toilet, porta-potties, and trails by removing garbage, debris, or graffiti.
• Maintain trails so that they are easily navigable for people with all levels of outdoor experience and physical ability, including clipping, brush cutting, string-trimming, and mowing with a tractor.
• Operate powered-tools like push-mowers and string-trimmers to ensure our natural areas are clear for scheduled camps and classes.
• Assist with loading, unloading, and placing nursery plan material in restoration areas.
• Support community stewardship and volunteer events throughout Jackson Bottom.
• Interact respectfully with patrons and provide information as needed.
• Perform a range of tasks as part of a small team and at times work independently.

Current & Upcoming Projects

• Support Natural Resource Manager on Emerald Ash Borer related tasks such as treating trees, monitoring/tracking tree health, community outreach, and stewardship events.
• Maintain demonstration gardens in uplands by rocking trails, mulching, pulling weeds, planting natives, and mowing.
• Complete time-sensitive projects like fencing trees to deter beavers before flood events.
• Maintain Hillsboro Community Gardens Program sites and prepare for spring season.

Ideal Candidates Will Have

• Ability to identify common species or native plants and wildlife by visual observation.
• Knowledge of natural resources and their application in natural area stewardship.
• A commitment to excellent customer service, fostering positive interactions with both customers and colleagues through professional and courteous behavior.
• Ability to safely and effectively operate of a variety of hand and power tools and motorized equipment, such as tractors and their attached implements.
• Landscaping or natural area maintenance experience.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS

(At time of application and in addition to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities listed above.)

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or GED; and one year of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job, such as those listed above.

LICENSE(S) / CERTIFICATIONS

• Valid, current Driver's License and safe driving record

Why Work For the City of Hillsboro?

At the City of Hillsboro, we value innovation, inclusion, and collaboration. Our culture encourages professional growth and supports employees who are passionate about making a difference in their community. You’ll find meaningful work, great people, and opportunities to grow your career in public service. We’re committed to supporting employees with a comprehensive package of benefits and resources designed to promote health, well-being, and growth.

When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:

• Extra perks like bilingual pay incentives and wellness reimbursements
• Free Employee TriMet annual Hop pass
• SHARC and Hidden Creek Community Center recreation access for you and your immediate family
• Paid time off to volunteer in the community through Hillsboro Helps
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• A supportive workplace that values work/life balance and employee wellness

To learn more about our robust benefits package, please visit our Benefits Page.

Bilingual Incentive Pay Available

Employees who can demonstrate the ability to speak Spanish, ASL, or any other language spoken by over 10% of the City residents as documented by the most recent U.S. Census, will receive a monthly 3% premium pay. The incentive is only paid on hours in paid status. Proficiency will be determined by a City-administered test.

Commitment to Equity

At the City of Hillsboro, we believe that hiring a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve is essential to delivering exceptional City services and programs. The City of Hillsboro is committed to creating and supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees to thrive. We value, respect, and empower employees as unique individuals with authentic voices and diverse ideas.