What are the responsibilities and job description for the Invasive Specialist position at Douglas-Hart Nature Center?
SUMMARY OF POSITION
The Invasive Specialist is responsible for identifying, removing, and tracking invasives at the Douglas-Hart Nature Center. Typical day-to-day operations include invasive removal of numerous species, habitat surveys, record keeping, and similar. All duties will be conducted at the Douglas-Hart Nature Center, primarily working in the woodland, but also prairie, savanna, and wetland. This position is a temporary, grant-funded position slated for funding from May 2025 to June 2028 with an 18-hour max work week, with some Saturdays and evenings required. Scheduling and hours vary on working weather conditions.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
- Invasive or nuisance plant removal using appropriate control method–examples include loppers, chainsaws, hand pulling, and herbicide application
- Conduct habitat surveys
- Detailed record-keeping on invasive removal (date/species removed/method of removal/numbers)
- Lead volunteers on invasive removal projects
- Keep supplies, tools, resources, vehicles, and buildings clean, organized, and maintained
- Conduct other invasive-related projects as needed
- Attend necessary staff and grant meetings
- Assist with grounds and maintenance activities related to operations of the Foundation including basic facility maintenance, amenity upkeep, cleanliness, litter/trash, and similar
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Land Stewardship Director
SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Knowledge of invasive flora in Illinois (or willing to learn)
- Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and take initiative
- Ability to communicate, interact, and respect diverse audiences and perspectives and interpret conservation efforts to create meaningful guest experiences.
- Must be able to be organized and keep detailed records
- Must be able to walk over rough terrain without trails, lift and carry up to 50 pounds, bend, stoop, carry, and work continuously for long periods of time in all types of weather conditions, and be outside for the majority of the workday
- Must be able to operate (or learn to operate) all terrain vehicle, tractor, brush cutter, and chainsaw
- Ability to conduct tasks that may result in exposure to dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, fumes, and similar
- Represent the Douglas-Hart Foundation in a professional manner
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must possess a valid driver’s license
- Relative work experience with woodland habitat restoration, land management practices, or invasive species removal/management
- Must be willing to obtain an Illinois Pesticide Operator License
SALARY AND BENEFITS
- $15-$16 per hour
- Paid Certifications/Trainings:
- Forestry Management Plans
- Native Plant Identification
- Habitat Restoration and Land Management Practices
- Invasive Species Identification and Management
- Creating and Maintaining Habitats for Wildlife
- Illinois Pesticide Operator License (training books provided)
- Chainsaw Training
- Prescribed Burn Training (S130 and S190)
APPLICATION INFORMATION
- Email resume to
Funding for this project is provided by the Inflation Reduction Act and the USDA Forest Service, Urban and Community Forestry Program in partnership with the Douglas-Hart Foundation.
The Douglas-Hart Foundation is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals and in which employment is based on qualifications, merit, and business needs and applied without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, family, national origin, military service, or citizenship.
Job Types: Part-time, Temporary
Pay: $15.00 - $16.00 per hour
Expected hours: 8 – 16 per week
Benefits:
- Paid time off
Ability to Relocate:
- Mattoon, IL 61938: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $15 - $16
