Wildland Fire & Habitat Steward

The Nature Conservancy; Babson Park (FL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The Nature Conservancy in Florida is seeking a Land Conservation Steward based at Tiger Creek Preserve to implement prescribed fire management, habitat restoration, and invasive species control across central Florida. You will work with a land management team, supervise volunteers, operate field equipment, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

This role requires physical stamina, NWCG qualifications, and a valid driver’s license, with opportunities to contribute to

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• 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 working in a team environment.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g., First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
• Must be able to obtain NWCG qualifications for Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ISC (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wild Land Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130).
• Minimum TNC training and health requirements for wildland fires at the arduous level; Ability to walk 3 miles with a 45-pound pack vest with a time of 45 or minutes or less.
• Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.

Responsibilities

• Participate in prescribed and wildland fires on preserves and partner lands, using ignition devices, hand tools, and fire engines/equipment.
• Participate in invasive non-native species control, monitoring and management with integrated pest methods.
• Assist with pre/post burn operations, including fireline prep, mop-up, patrols, and data collection.
• Supervise no staff, but may help plan and direct preserve work groups including staff, interns or volunteers.
• Exhibit strong interpersonal skills; foster teamwork and collaboration.
• Work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
• Maintain excellent physical condition to conduct field work with exertion.
• Have ability to work a 40-hour week; may require long hours or weekends; travel on short notice.

Skills

Wildland fire knowledge

Equipment operation

Teamwork

Driver's license

Licenses/certifications

GIS basics / ArcGIS

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

GPS hardware

ArcGIS

Job description

The Nature Conservancy in Florida is seeking a Land Conservation Steward based at Tiger Creek Preserve to implement prescribed fire management, habitat restoration, and invasive species control across central Florida. You will work with a land management team, supervise volunteers, operate field equipment, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

This role requires physical stamina, NWCG qualifications, and a valid driver’s license, with opportunities to contribute to