This is a full-time field position (40 hours/week) leading, supervising, and educating 4-5 college level student interns in hands-on ecological management and restoration of native prairie, wet meadow, streams, and oak savanna. This position is with The Prairie Enthusiasts (Empire Sauk Chapter), a non-profit conservation group focused on the protection and recovery of fire-dependent ecosystems of the upper Midwest.
Qualifications:
B.S. degree, or equivalent experience, in biological or natural history sciences related to native fire-dependent ecosystems of the upper Midwest. Experience in hands-on land management and restoration techniques, with power equipment (chainsaws, brush cutters, etc.), and in supervising and directing people is required. Knowledge of the species and ecology of upper Midwest prairies, sedge meadows, and oak savanna is required. Must be self-motivated, have ability to motivate others, have a positive attitude, have a commitment to conservation of endangered ecosystems, and have a valid driver’s license. Experience with tractors is desirable, but not required.
Duties:
Direct and lead interns in the field. Lead by example. Foster a safe, productive, and educational work environment. Assess the abilities of the interns and be responsible for their well-being. Provide on the job training to interns in the use of equipment and restoration and biological survey methods. Provide education about the natural history of the preserves, the need for restoration/management, and the methods used. Be responsible for equipment care and maintenance. At the direction of preserve site stewards, develop weekly work plans.
Locations:
The work will primarily take place at two high-quality nature preserves in western Dane County and eastern Iowa County near the villages of Barneveld and Mazomanie. Other sites near Blue Mounds, Arena, and Mt Horeb may require occasional visits during the internship. These sites owned or
protected (via conservation easements) by The Prairie Enthusiasts. They include remnant and restored prairies, oak savannas, oak woodlands, streams, and wetlands.
Other Considerations:
The Restoration Ecologist responsible for their travel, housing, and other living expenses, and are encouraged to carpool to worksites. Sturdy work boots, gloves and clothing, as well as sun, rain, and insect protection are required. All tools will be provided.
Start: May 28, 2024 Ends: Aug. 16, 2024
Compensation:
$21-$25/hr depending upon experience. Payroll is run at the end of every month so you will be paid the first week of every month. Please plan accordingly. No benefits beyond workman’s compensation are included.
Contact: Andy Sleger (by March 1, 2024)
asleger@theprairieenthusiasts.org
How to Apply:
Application deadline to ensure consideration is March 1st, 2024. Apply by email to Andrew Sleger (asleger@theprairieenthusiasts.org). Attach a single pdf file that includes a cover letter describing your background and interest in this position, and a detailed resume. Begin the file name with you last name followed by first name.
declining species, and the tools, methods, and philosophies of restoration ecology from professional ecologists and experienced practitioners. You will also learn about the conservation significance and goals of various preserves.