Robinson Nature Center Conservation and Education Technician (Columbia, MD)

Weekend work is required along with some evening hours.  Work weeks will follow a Wednesday – Sunday schedule, totaling 40 hrs/week. Assists
with the day-to-day operations of the Robinson Nature Center (RNC). Assists with conservation stewardship projects including, invasive plant removal, native tree and shrub plantings, and trail construction. Inspects the site to ensure that facilities, grounds, and equipment are in good order and in proper condition and that safety standards are maintained. Assists with the set up and take down for programs, classes & events. Develops and oversees the completion of work projects and other duties as assigned.

Please note that while this position is continuous, it is not a full-time position. Benefits include health care and accrued paid time off.

DUTIES: Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Assists with conservation stewardship projects including, invasive species removal, native tree and shrub plantings, seed collection, meadow management, and trail construction.
• Determines and applies appropriate vegetation control methods, i.e. chemical, mechanical, biological, etc.
• Identify natural resource concerns, determine best management practices and develop solutions to restore native habitats and ecosystems.
• Performs and/or oversees activities such as mowing, weeding, edging, mulching, pruning, raking, planting, etc.
• Operates a variety of equipment such as UTV, zero turn mower, push mowers, line trimmer/brush cutters, chain saws, blowers, and chippers. Utilize hand and electric power tools.
• Takes a lead role in plant material selection, ordering, payment, receiving shipments, proper storage and protection of specimens, pre-planting care,
propagation, seed collection, site-layout design and post-installation inspection of planting sites.

BUREAU OF PARKS AND PROGRAM SERVICES
• Manages and provides leadership to field crews of staff, interns, and volunteers conducting biological data collection for natural resource inventories, habitat management monitoring, and research projects at the Robinson Nature Center.
• Organize, inventory, and maintain tools, supplies, equipment, and vehicles.
• Work with a variety of partners, conservation/civic groups, contractors, funders and regulatory authorities to accomplish habitat goals.
• May serve as a liaison to local environmental groups such as, but not limited to:
o Howard County Beekeepers
o Howard County Wood Workers Guild
o Howard County Bird Club
• Coordinates and participates in Citizen Science opportunities and other volunteer programs such as, but not limited to:
o Project Clean Stream
o Bluebird Nest Box Monitoring Program
o Monarch Butterfly Tagging
• Helps facilitate teacher workshops that encourage outdoor learning.
• Assists with the physical components of interpretive displays and educational exhibits as required.
• Assists with the production of education brochures as well as ordering and distributing them.
• May assist with building and grounds maintenance associated with operating a nature center.
• During inclement weather, keeps entry ways and walkways clear of snow and ice to maintain public safety.
• Other duties may be assigned.

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS:
This position requires the ability to follow complex instructions, accurate record keeping, the ability to occasionally lift and/or move 50 pounds, walk long distances over varied terrain, and a willingness to work with the public. Strong and reliable work ethic, integrity, and attention to detail. Experience with forest ecology, urban forestry and managing contractors is important in this position, as are good communication skills. The position requires handling the coordination of multiple projects, and other duties as assigned. The employee will be working in all weather conditions, including high heat, rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. The position could require operating motor vehicles, both on and off road. The employee could occasionally have to tow trailers and operate a UTV/ATV.

Criminal background check and pre-employment physical required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
• Possession of a Maryland Class “C” driver’s license.
• AED/CPR and First Aid certification, or the ability to obtain upon hire.
• Must attend the required pesticide training and be registered with the MDA.
• Receive department chainsaw training.

MINIMUM EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
• Associates degree in environmental science/education, natural resource management, forestry, wildlife management, or a related field.
• Experience in Microsoft Office products, including word and excel.
• Must have knowledge and experience in park landscape and/or trail construction and building maintenance.

PREFERED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor’s degree in natural resource management, ecology, forestry, environmental science/education, biology, horticulture or related field.
• Basic computer skill plus proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Strong knowledge and experience in identifying both native and non-native woody and herbaceous plants.
• Experience using hand held GPS units for data collection.
• Experience operating utility vehicles and hauling equipment with pick-up trucks and trailers.
• Experience in collecting, analyzing, and reporting statistical data.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence and speak effectively before public groups or employees of the organization.

RATE OF PAY: Contingent, Professional $20.00 – 22.00/hr, commensurate with experience.

Please send resume and cover letter to Brian Campbell, Conservation, Maintenance, and Sustainability Manager, at bcampbell@howardcountymd.gov.  Questions regarding the position can also be sent directly to Brian Campbell.  He can be reached at (410) 313-0406.