Natural Resource Specialist – Wetlands/Grassland Ecologist

Jefferson County • Golden, CO

10d • $28

About The Position

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY: Jeffco Parks and Open Space was founded as a land conservation organization in 1972 by PLAN Jeffco and The League of Women Voters of Jefferson County. These organizations proposed a unique concept to the Board of County Commissioners to preserve the scenic vistas and open lands within the county using the collection of one-half of one percent tax on sales in Jefferson County to fund the program. The voters agreed, thereby ensuring perpetual land conservation, stewardship of open space and parklands, and access for public enjoyment. Funded with a one-half of one percent sales tax, Jeffco Parks and Open Space contributes to city and park district projects, has preserved more than 56,000 acres, and manages 27 open space parks and more than 244 miles of trails in Jefferson County, Colorado. View the Jeffco Open Space Park system map. Mission: Preserve open space and parkland Protect park and natural resources Provide healthy, nature-based experiences Read more at Jeffco Parks and Open Space. https://www.jeffco.us/open-space The Natural Resources Specialist I is responsible for performing entry level professional work in the conservation, preservation, and management of natural resources while training on the methods and techniques. SCHEDULE: This position typically operates on our 4x10 work week (Monday-Thursday, 7:00am-5:30pm), but occasionally the work requires a variable work schedule, due to project tasks required. Details will be discussed during the interview process. The employment status is Limited (Fixed-Term) with an anticipated assignment start date of May 5th, 2026 and end date of October 31,2026. This position is eligible for personal medical coverage the first month after you start. COMPENSATION: Anticipated Hiring Salary: $ 28.00 USD Hourly Compensation will be determined based on education, experience and skills.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resource, Rangland, Wetland Management, ecology or similar
• Note: An equivalent combination of education and experience is acceptable.

Nice To Haves

• Experience conducting field-based ecological inventory, monitoring, and assessments.
• Experience collecting botanical information using dichotomous keys.
• Experience using ESRI tools such as Field Maps, Survey123, and ArcGIS Pro.
• Ability to work both independently with guidance and effectively in a team.
• Willingness and ability to work long hours in potentially adverse conditions, carrying a heavy pack (40 lbs) while hiking long distances.
• Demonstrated organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills; ability to handle complex tasks with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Assist with field-based wetland, riparian, and grassland inventory, monitoring, and assessment.
• Collect ecological and spatial data in the field using Survey123 and Field Maps to characterize grasslands, wetlands, riparian areas, streams, and their associated vegetation communities.
• Identify plants using dichotomous keys.
• Use GPS tools and maps to navigate to and from sites via paved roads, 4x4 dirt roads, hiking trails, and off-trail through dense vegetation and across long distances.
• Use field guides and Munsell’s color charts to identify and characterize hydric soils.
• Assist with implementation of wetland and riparian restoration projects.

Benefits

• A wide variety of great benefit opportunities helps you maintain a healthy lifestyle in balance with a generous leave & holiday schedule.
• This role is a Limited position anticipating an assignment end date after one year and offering Medical coverage for both the employee and/or any dependent children for limited rates.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level