Land Steward I

Part-time, non-benefitted, hourly position at the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve (BCCER). Candidate must be a California resident.

About the role

This position primarily reports to the BCCER, with some work in the surrounding community. Land Stewards must have two full days of availability (7:00 am – 3:30 pm) between Monday and Friday to be hired for land steward crew work.

Responsibilities

• Maintenance Elements
  • Carry out vegetation management on the Reserve or in surrounding communities in ecologically sensitive areas using a variety of tools.
  • Perform fieldwork including invasive plant eradication, fence repair, road maintenance, and trail maintenance using a range of hand and power tools.
  • Assist with prescribed burns, including both pile and broadcast burns.
  • Assist with facilities maintenance and minor repairs at visitor access sites.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
• Programmatic Elements
  • Act as a host and facilitator for groups using the BCCER, including faculty-led field trips, research activities, student research projects, and community hikes and events (including scheduling and leading activities).
  • Assist with the Hunt Program for the BCCER by posting signage, assisting with the lottery and required forms, and providing tours.
  • Assist with community outreach events.

Requirements

• Experience performing duties similar to those described above.
• Understanding of the conservation of natural and open space resources.
• Ability to communicate well with a wide variety of constituents, including volunteers, student staff and interns, visitors to the reserves, and faculty and staff.
• Ability to manage time effectively and complete tasks independently.
• Ability to perform both sedentary and physical labor.
• Capacity and willingness to work in extreme weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds unassisted.
• Valid driver’s license and automobile liability insurance; participation in the DMV Employer Pull Notice Program (driving record) is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of native and non-native plant species.
• Familiarity with a variety of hand tools including chainsaws, brush cutters, and small equipment.
• Experience driving 4x4 vehicles.
• Wildland Fire Chainsaw Training (S-212).
• Basic Fire Fighter II certification or equivalent.

Pay

$17.00 – $19.00 per hour

Benefits

• Sick leave (up to 5 days/year)