Natural Resource Manager

Summary

The employee in this position is responsible for assisting the Region 2 Manager to plan, direct, and assist with the maintenance of the Montgomery County’s Park system’s natural areas including passive natural areas (forest, meadows, etc.), and waterways. This is supervisory work, with a mix of manual labor, field work and office time. Equipment operation is of average difficulty. Work may require heavy physical exertion.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

This job description is designed to accurately reflect job duties (However, it may not be all-inclusive and other job-related duties might be required):

• Assists Region 2 Manager in the planning, directing, managing and assisting with the maintenance/restoration/enhancement of the County’s Park system’s natural areas.
• Plans and implements land and/or waterway restoration projects.
• Native and non-native plant identification and experience planting and/or removing these plants.
• Wildlife Management
• Identifying challenges and seeking out cost-effective and efficient solutions
• Coordinates and supervises third-party contractors.
• Assist Site Supervisor with coordination and supervision of volunteer efforts in park and open space natural areas.
• Submits progress reports and schedule of resource projects.
• Determines materials, supplies, labor and equipment necessary to complete tasks.
• Completes and/or coordinates environmental applications in a responsible manner.
• Assist Environment Educator with programs.
• Available to assist other Regions with restoration and maintenance schedules for their natural areas.
  
  

Necessary Occupational Traits

Knowledge: Knowledge of native vegetation restoration. Knowledge of methods and practices used in County park operations, including horticultural and forestry. Average knowledge of the principles of a public parks system. Thorough knowledge of the hazards of improper use of fertilizers, herbicides, seeds and all equipment. Some knowledge of administrative methods. Some knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Skills: Skill in the operation of equipment and tools used in park maintenance including chainsaws and mowers.

Abilities: Ability to establish effective working relationships with associates and the public. Ability to perform heavy manual labor. Ability to instruct subordinates in work methods. Ability to work independently and exercise good judgement. Ability to coordinate and supervise labor force (staff and volunteers).

Qualification Requirements

• Minimum of Bachelor’s Degree in natural resource management, biology, forestry, ecology, geosciences, environmental sciences, or a closely related field; or five (5) years of commensurate experience.
• Minimum three years of park and forestry maintenance field experience; supervisory experience in a similar setting preferred.
• Expected to participate in appropriate organizations and affiliations related to the field.
• Must be able to read/write/speak English.
• Must have competent computer skills.
• Must project a pleasant and professional presence when interacting with the public.
• Must successfully pass PA State Police Criminal Record Check.
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License, a satisfactory driving record and the ability to maintain one throughout employment.
• Ability to communicate effectively and possess good public speaking skills.
  
  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to taste or smell. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands or arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and depth perception.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn when applicable.
• Have the ability to climb, stoop, bend, reach, walk, sit or stand for long periods of time.
• Must be able to lift at least up to fifty (50) pounds.
  
  

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

This position will require both office and field work. An Environmental Resource Manager may experience the following:

• Occasional exposure to chemicals and other hazardous materials when performing responsibilities.
• Occasional exposure to inclement weather, extreme heat, cold, snow, ice and rain.
• Occasional (possibly regular) contact with domestic and wild animals.
• Casual work attire.
• Will work at various sites as assigned.
  
  

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED (Licenses, Certifications, Registrations)

• Pennsylvania Driver’s license.
• PA Pesticide Applicator’s license (or ability to obtain within 18 months after start date).