West Michigan Crew Member

The Nature Conservancy; Michigan; On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Nature Conservancy is seeking a West Michigan Crew Member to assist in ecological management. This full-time, temporary position requires physical labor in diverse outdoor settings, alongside a crew. It offers the chance to work on environmental challenges and contribute to nature conservation efforts.

Benefits

Shared housing available

Health care benefits

401(k) plan with 8% employer match

Paid time off

Employee assistance program

Qualifications

• 6 months of related experience in land management.
• Ability to operate equipment safely (lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV).
• Must obtain First Aid and CPR certifications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct maintenance and restoration on Conservancy preserves.
• Implement invasive species removal using mechanical and chemical methods.
• Navigate using GIS and GPS to monitor species.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Problem Solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

GPS

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our to hear stories from staff or visit .

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

The West Michigan Crew Member will be part of a 3-person crew (1 crew leader and 2 crew members) that travels across West Michigan conducting maintenance, restoration, management, and monitoring of Conservancy preserves and partners lands. The Nature Conservancy in Michigan owns and manages three preserves in the West Michigan coastal geography, encompassing more than 1,700 acres.

The West Michigan Crew Member will work as part of a field crew to implement invasive / exotic species removal using mechanical and / or chemical methods, conducts species monitoring and performs preserve management and maintenance activities. The applicant will use GPS and geographic information systems (GIS) to identify, record and map native and non-native, invasive species. The applicant will use and maintain equipment, power tools, vehicles, trailers and GPS units. The successful applicant will be able to navigate natural areas with map and GPS.

This position requires frequent travel throughout West Michigan. Travel accommodations will be provided by The Nature Conservancy. This is a full time, temporary position starting April 29th, 2024 with a duration of 5 months.

• Supervises no staff, but may help plan and direct preserve work groups, including staff or volunteers.
• Requires working in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
• Capable of identifying native and non-native plant species, and animal species to complete preserve management activities.
• Requires considerable physical exertion and / or muscular strain.
• Requires long hours in isolated settings, working closely with coworkers.
• Requires use and maintenance of restoration equipment daily.
• Makes day to day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
• May work under infrequent supervision.
• May interact with preserve visitors and the public.
• Assist Crew Leader and / or Restoration Associate with administrative tasks.

WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!

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).
• Experience performing physical work.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide application).

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to follow instructions from supervisor and colleagues and work cooperatively with others.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to obtain a driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
• 1 year or more of experience in land management.
• Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems, ability to recognize native / non-native plant and animal species.
• Ability to communicate clearly via written and spoken English.
• Ability to perform physical work, often under adverse weather conditions for long periods of time.
• Experience with ARC GIS and GPS units.
• Experience using computers with Microsoft office suite and database systems for maintaining accurate daily work logs, herbicide treatments and other monitoring data.

WHAT WE BRING

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into 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 and partners, we impact conservation around the world!

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our benefits on our on nature.org / careers.

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION

Shared housing is available.

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 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 range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $17.00 an hour. 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.