Intermittent Natural Resources Technician 1 (Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve) - 20062010

We are seeking energetic, passionate people who enjoy the outdoors and want to play a key role as an intermittent Natural Resources Technician 1 within the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, assigned to Portage County at 11027 Hopkins Rd., Garrettsville, OH 44231.

About the Role

This position involves ecological management, trails and facilities maintenance, equipment upkeep, and visitor assistance at state nature preserves and other properties. The role requires rigorous outdoor activity, including hiking over rough terrain and the ability to lift and carry 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Ecological Management: Control invasive plants and manage habitats through hand-pulling or cutting vegetation, using string trimmers and hand tools, and applying herbicides (training provided). Requires walking over rough/uneven terrain while carrying a backpack sprayer.
• Trails and Facilities Maintenance: Inspect and clear trails of downed limbs/trees, trim encroaching vegetation, assist in constructing/repairing infrastructure (bridges, boardwalks, stairs, kiosks), perform general labor, and remove litter, debris, and graffiti.
• Equipment Maintenance: Operate and drive pickup trucks, UTVs, ATVs, and other motorized vehicles. Perform cleaning, sharpening, preventative maintenance, oil changes, and other assigned duties.
• Office Maintenance: Clean office facilities, including common areas and restrooms, and assist with minor building repairs and upgrades.
• Administrative: Record ecological management and maintenance activities, provide reports to supervisors, and assist with data entry.
• Monitoring Studies: Assist staff with routine monitoring of special management areas and public access around restricted zones.
• Visitor Assistance: Provide information to the public about the ecological significance of state nature preserves, explain rules/policies, and monitor restricted areas.

Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds.
• Capability for rigorous outdoor activity, including hiking over rough terrain.
• Valid driver’s license; Commercial Driver’s License required if operating regulated motor equipment (per Ohio Revised Code Sections 4506.01 & 4506.12).
• Formal education in arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and proficiency in reading/speaking common English vocabulary.
• Self-motivated, able to work independently and in a team environment.
• Willingness to work in inclement weather, unusual conditions (e.g., extreme temperatures, rough/wet terrain), and handle/apply herbicides per ODA Pesticide regulations.
• Flexibility to work early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and occasional special events.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in ecological management or maintenance.
• Ability to identify common wildlife species and native/invasive vegetation (training provided).

Work Conditions

• Exposure to dirt, dust, fumes, noise, chemicals, water, and outdoor elements (e.g., animals, insects, poison ivy/sumac).
• Work schedule varies: typically 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, 2–3 days/week, with occasional weekends/holidays. Report times/duration may change based on operational needs, weather, or seasonal conditions.

Pay

$20.05/hour.

Schedule

• 1000-hour intermittent (unclassified) position with a flexible start date.
• Part-time; includes weekends.
• Not eligible for benefits (e.g., health insurance, paid leave, holiday pay).