Natural Resources Tech

Newfields a Place for Nature & The Arts•Indianapolis, IN

13d•$18 - $20

About The Position

Newfields is seeking a Natural Resources Technician to work collaboratively within our team structure to implement projects and maintenance support for The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. This position is integral in performing the general, daily maintenance of the park, invasive species removal, and the implementation of projects. The Natural Resources Technician is a full-time position with hours including weekends and holidays. Tasks and responsibilities include trash removal and general maintenance of Fairbanks Park; care of native garden spaces including mulching, weeding, and planting; invasive species removal, including the proper use of herbicide treatment; hazard tree removal and canopy replacement using power equipment; mowing and other grounds maintenance including pruning, laying sod and seed, and erosion mitigation; other tasks which focus on creating dynamic native plant and wildlife habitats; and other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Native and invasive plant identification skills sufficient to pull weeds in garden spaces and remove invasive plants from forested areas
Proficiency in the use of hand and power tools, including pesticide application equipment.
Knowledge of irrigation systems, including basic plumbing and irrigation knowledge (or willingness to learn)
Ability to identify and maintain a working knowledge of plants and animals, including invasive species
Operational skills on a wide range of grounds equipment, including backhoe, chainsaw, tractor loader, mowers, etc. (or willingness to learn)
General knowledge of mechanics sufficient to recognize the existence of mechanical problems and preventative maintenance practices to avoid preventable damage to equipment
Ability to evaluate changing weather conditions and make appropriate decisions regarding snow and ice removal
Must have a valid driver’s license
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals, and apply common sense to carry out detailed written or oral instructions
Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one or small group settings to guests or internal staff
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, decimals, and percentages – sufficient to calibrate equipment and make errorless calculations on pesticide application rates
Ability to follow safety procedures when working with mechanical and chemical equipment
Ability to work with volunteers, answer questions, and share knowledge, including plant identification, invasive plant removal, and garden procedures
Ability to identify hazards, debris, and anything out of place and fix issues independently
High school diploma or specialized education
Three to five years of related experience and/or training in the natural resources preferred
Or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

Trash removal throughout the park
General management of forests, plants, soil, lakes, and other natural resources
Operate equipment as assigned, including mowers, weed-eaters, lawn edgers, backhoe, chainsaw, chipper, forestry mower, loaders, stump grinders, trencher/pullers, box grader, and others
Provide support for projects by participating in large-scale ground preparation, planting, and post-planting care
Assist in the implementation of master plan projects, including sculpture installation and the ongoing maintenance of the Wild Birds Unlimited Pollinator Meadow and other gardens
Perform horticultural maintenance tasks, including planting, weeding, pruning, laying sod, snow removal, trash removal, and pesticide application
Assist with occasional group projects and collaborative efforts of the HNR division, ie: installation of seasonal displays including Harvest and Winterlights
Serve as a Newfields ambassador in the Art and Nature Park through excellent service and guest relations, responding to any number of internal or external requests for assistance
Work with volunteer groups on a variety of small or large group projects
Other duties as assigned