Invasive Plant Species and Ecosystem Restoration Specialist

About Us:

Protecting the planet is our priority and our passion. Swamp Yankee Earthcare is dedicated to preserving and restoring natural ecosystems through sustainable practices. We are committed to environmental stewardship and believe in the importance of biodiversity conservation. 

Position Overview:

We are seeking a motivated and skilled individual to join our team as an Invasive Plant Species and Ecosystem Restoration Specialist. This position plays a crucial role in our efforts to restore native habitats by managing invasive plant species without the use of pesticides. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in invasive species management, native plant species, and/or natural resource management, coupled with a passion for conservation and ecological restoration. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and assess invasive plant species within designated restoration sites.
• Participate in physically demanding tasks, including manual removal of invasive plants and restoration of native vegetation.This includes: 
• the ability to work completing strenuous activity in a range of weather conditions (including high heat or near freezing temperatures) for significant periods of time, including traversing difficult or uneven terrain, while lifting and carrying heavy objects (40 pounds).
• Implement effective strategies for invasive species removal and control using manual methods and ecological restoration techniques.
• Monitor restoration sites to evaluate the effectiveness of management strategies and document ecological changes over time.
• Collaborate with team members, volunteers, and community stakeholders to promote awareness and engagement in invasive species management and ecosystem restoration efforts.

This position will require regular travel throughout Connecticut and, on rare occasions, overnight travel may be offered.

Required Qualifications:

• The ability to perform often strenuous physical labor during the majority of a work day and week including being able to perform a variety of physical duties for up to 8 hours a day with frequent bending, lifting, and carrying;
• Motivated, detail-oriented with a commitment to completing tasks thoroughly and on time and the ability to shift schedule and priorities to meet changing conditions;
• Skills and abilities to resolve a full range of problems or situations when performing a variety of tasks in the field;
• Willing and able to represent Swamp Yankee Earthcare in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner;
• Valid driver’s license and reliable means of transportation;
• Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse crew;
• Ability to actively develop understanding of native plant communities and habitats through on-the-job learning and other professional development opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven experience/knowledge of local ecosystems, plant communities, and invasive species identification as well as in invasive species management and ecological restoration, with a focus on native plant species. Specifically:
• knowledge and experience with the native plants of Connecticut 
• Ability to operate chainsaws, brush saws, and other tools for cutting/removing vegetation.
• Proficiency in the maintenance and repair of tools and equipment used for manual labor and invasive species management.
• Experience in leading and working effectively with restoration crews or volunteer groups.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Terms of Employment:

• Part-time, dependent on available contracts; up to 40 hours/week, with potential for some overtime.
• Compensation commensurate with experience, with advancement based on performance.
• Starting Rate: $20 per hour.

Schedule: Duties will typically be carried out Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. but work hours will vary due to available contracts. Weekly totals should not exceed 40 hours. A flexible work schedule may be required, which, in rare occasions, could involve work performed outside of normal work hours including on weekends.

Environmental Conditions/Hazards:

The Swamp Yankee Earthcare crew may encounter environmental conditions/hazards including extreme heat or cold, rocky terrain, biting insects, high humidity, and potentially dangerous wildlife. The crew is expected to conduct duties in a safe and orderly manner so as not to endanger self, fellow crew members, volunteers, or resources and tools. Duties are performed outdoors. Temperature and weather extremes can be encountered in the performance of outdoor duties.

Additional Information:

This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on local ecosystems and contribute to the conservation of biodiversity. Swamp Yankee Earthcare strives to provide a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development in the field of ecological restoration. In each season, Swamp Yankee Earrthcare has a variety of work so the crew has continual opportunities to learn and grow their capabilities and skills. Our crew will be working on privately-owned properties including land trusts as well as lands owned and managed by municipal, state, or federal agencies and entities. 

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter outlining their qualifications and interest in the position, and contact information for three professional references to swampyankeeearthcare@gmail.com. Please include “Invasive Plant Species and Ecosystem Restoration Specialist” in the subject line of your email.

Deadline:

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early applications are encouraged.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Swamp Yankee Earthcare is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We actively celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.