The Nature Conservancy: Forest Restoration Assistant

OFFICE LOCATIONCumberland, Maryland, USA#GDA LITTLE ABOUT USSince 1951, The Nature Conservancy has been doing work you can believe in protecting the lands and waters that all life depends on.

As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive.We’re rooted in our Mission and guided by our Values, which includes a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures.

We know we’ll only achieve our Mission by hiring and engaging a diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we work.

Whether it’s career development, work/life balance, or a rewarding mission, there’s lots of reasons to love life #insideTNC.

Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all of our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging, and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued.YOUR POSITION WITH TNCThe Nature Conservancy’s Maryland/DC chapter is on the front lines of the fight against climate change.

Nature is our best defense to adapt to a changing world and we work on the ground to deliver large-scale conservation projects that have the greatest outcomes for people and nature.

Science is at the core of everything we do—we constantly learn and adapt to yield the greatest conservation returns.

Yet our actions alone are not enough.

We leverage policy and partnerships to scale our impact.

Our core programs aim to transform agriculture, restore Appalachian forests, build green cities, and strengthen our coasts – all in the face of a changing climate.

In addition, we engage directly in policy to reduce emissions that cause climate change.In the mountains of western Maryland, our Resilient Forests team includes scientists, land managers, outreach specialists, and controlled fire experts.

We work with public agency partners, university researchers, and colleagues from other states in the Central Appalachians to achieve ambitious conservation outcomes.

As a member of this dynamic team, the Forest Restoration Assistant will develop and apply skills, knowledge, and experience to accomplish priority projects.

They will also receive professional development and mentoring tailored to their needs to support their success during and after this one-year short-term position.

This position includes benefits and may be extended for another year for a total period of two years.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSThe Forest Restoration Assistant will contribute to forest restoration, partner outreach, monitoring and planning projects critical to our conservation outcomes.

Essential functions include:Collect forest measurement data and apply basic data summary and analysis methods to report on findings.Apply basic forestry techniques to assist with late-successional forest management project by marking legacy trees, designating patch reserves, characterizing canopy gaps, girdling trees, and planting seedlings.Identify, map, and remove invasive species at restoration sites.Use GIS and mobile map apps to map monitoring and treatment sites.Assist with drone missions conducted as part of restoration projects.Maintain a geodatabase with spatial data and conduct basic image processing/analysis.Serve as crew for prescribed fire operations after meeting the following requirements:Complete certificate and training in prescribed burns.Pass physical Pack-test for s130/190 certification.Complete CPR/First Aide Training.Contribute to on-going fire monitoring projects by collecting pre and post-burn data.Serve as a member of the MD/DC Chapter’s Science Team and Fire Monitoring Committee.Serve as a team member for other projects as assigned.RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPENetwork with diverse groups, including landowners, conservation partners, and TNC colleagues.Work independently and make day-to-day decisions within the scope project or role designated by supervisor.Identify routine problems and utilize existing resources for resolution, referring difficult questions and problems to supervisor.Financial responsibility will include purchasing, completing expense reports for business expenses, and assisting with budget tracking.Undertake field work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.Travel independently to worksites and meetings within western MD and in the nearby region (company vehicle provided).Contribute to relationships and coordination with partners working on controlled burning, forest restoration, and invasive plant control.Communicate about to stakeholders, partners, and the public.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSHigh school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience.Experience operating various types of equipment and tools in a safe and efficient manner (e.G.

radios, hand tools, i-pads, GPS).Must have or be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required.

(e.G.

valid driver’s license, CPR, first aide, fire certification as described above).DESIRED QUALIFICATIONSInterest in the mission of The Nature Conservancy and passion for conservation work.Ability to work and thrive in a team environment.Curiosity and drive to learn and grow.Experience and comfort working outdoors.Good organizational skills and ability to manage diverse activities to accomplish tasks and meet deadlines.Database skills, including managing and tracking data, and producing reports.Some college experience preferred.Knowledge of native plants and eastern forest ecosystems a plus.Basic knowledge in GIS and ArcGIS software is a plus.AUTO SAFETY POLICYThis position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with the Conservancy’s Auto Safety Program.

Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered ” High risk drivers.” Please see further details in the Auto Safety Program document available at www.Nature.Org/careers.Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee’s motor vehicle record.HOW TO APPLYTo apply to position number 49919, submit resume (required) and cover letter separately using the upload buttons.

Applications will be reviewed in the order they’re received and the position will remain open until filled.

If you experience technical issues, please refer to our applicant user guide or contact applyhelp@tnc.org.The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity EmployerOur commitment to diversity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and culture.

Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization that reflects our global character is a priority and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy’s background screening process.