The Prairie Enthusiasts is a grassroots nonprofit organization with a mission to educate about, protect and
restore prairies and savannas of the Upper Midwest. Only a tiny fraction of these ecosystems remain,
harboring specialized and endangered plants and animals in some of the rarest habitats on Earth. As an
accredited land trust, The Prairie Enthusiasts strives to protect and manage these natural areas and to help
others learn about their importance.
With 11 regional chapters in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin, our mission is largely carried out by
volunteers at the local level. This position will be hired at the Empire-Sauk Chapter and you will be working
at:
• The Pleasure Valley and Parrish Savanna Conservancy, Blue Mounds, WI (NW Dane County)
• Mounds View Grasslands, Barneveld, WI (Eastern Iowa County)
• Possibly other TPE preserves in the area (approx. 45 minutes from Central Madison, 60 min from
Platteville)
What is it like to work for The Prairie Enthusiasts?
The culture of our team is rooted in the core values of The Prairie Enthusiasts:
Stewardship, Sustainability, Collaboration, Education, Respect and Supportive.
Who we are seeking
We are hiring 2 or 3 people to assist in the management of natural areas with the goal of restoration back to pre-settlement conditions, increasing biodiversity and improving ecosystems. We are seeking people who are task-oriented, eager to serve, and supportive of the mission of The Prairie Enthusiasts.
If you are willingly accountable for your work and would like to contribute to making The Prairie Enthusiasts a stronger organization… if you value teamwork and would place the good of the organization first… if you want to grow and improve… if you want to bring your whole self to work… if you seek ways to help without being asked… then you may be a good fit for our team.
Work Schedule
It is anticipated that you will work full time (40 hours per week), for a limited term, from April 1st through July 26th 2024 (maximum of 672 hours). Work is dependent on weather conditions with restriction of work during rainy conditions. Work can be scheduled during the weekend to allow for 40-hour work week.
Compensation
This position pays $20-24 per hour and is not eligible for any benefits. Note: Payroll is run at the end of the month so paychecks (or direct deposit) are sent the first week of the month. Please plan accordingly.
Work-Activities
• Cut and treat and/or herbicide invasive species including garlic mustard, dame’s rocket, buckthorn,
honeysuckle, multiflora rose, reed canary grass, pokeweed, crown vetch, sweet clover and sumac.
• Basal bark herbicide treatment of brush and trees
• Girdle trees with chainsaw and treat with herbicide
• Establish or maintain forested prairie grassland burn breaks using chainsaw and mowing
• Clear brush and trees with hand held power equipment and herbicide cut stems
• Help conduct prescribed burns in grasslands , woodlands, and savannas
Minimum Qualifications
• Ability work independently and follow directions of Natural Area Land Manager
• Ability to work an 8-hour day operating chainsaws or carrying a 38 lb. back pack herbicide
sprayer over steep and wooded terrain
• Ability to identify and distinguish native species from non-native or invasive species
• Ability to operate a Polaris 6X6 UTV and a Kubota 30 hp tractor with a hydrostatic transmission or
similar motorized equipment, with instruction
• Ability to mix and apply herbicide under the direction of the Natural Areas Manager or
Conservancy Manager, including but not limited to: 2-4-D, Garlon-4, Escort Oust, Imazapyr,
glyphosate and clethodim
• Ability to orient in wooded terrain with maps and aerial photos
Desirable Qualifications
• Experience leading or participating as a crew member for prescribed burns
• Proficient at woodland, savanna, prairie and wetland plant species identification
• Adept at maintenance and repair of chainsaws, brush saws, herbicide sprayers, prescribed fire equipment, leaf blowers and pumper units
How to apply
In your cover letter, tell us why you are interested in working with The Prairie Enthusiasts and how this position is a fit for you. Email a cover letter and resume to The Prairie Enthusiasts Empire Sauk Chapter Natural Area Land Manager: Andy Sleger at asleger@theprairieenthusiasts.org. Applicants should provide a detailed description of their knowledge, experience, and abilities as they relate to the qualifications listed. Applicant must also provide information as to their ability to start work on April 1st 2024. These positions will remain open until filled.
The Prairie Enthusiasts is an Equal Opportunity Employer