The University of Michigan, Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum is looking for one full-time temporary (9 months) Natural Areas Stewardship Technician. You will report to the Natural Areas Manager and will help with the stewardship of the natural areas of our four properties. This position is onsite 40 hours per week, September 2024 - May 2025, Monday through Friday with occasional weekend responsibilities.

Responsibilities

Work alone or as part of a team outdoors on our four properties

Volunteer eco-workday coordination and leadership (occasional weekend work) 

Locate and identify native and exotic invasive plants

Use GPS/GIS apps and equipment / programs to collect and manage spatial data

Apply herbicides to control exotic invasive plants

Operate power equipment and using hand tools including: tractors, mowers, side by side utility vehicles, chainsaws, brush cutters, loppers, handsaws, wood chipper

Pull, bag, and remove exotic invasive weeds

Help with prescribed burns

Collect and process native plant seed, propagation, planting and direct sowing

Required Qualifications

1+ years of experience with landscape care, botany, ecology or ecological restoration 

Familiarity with GIS and data collection 

Must be willing to work outdoors in inclement weather, tolerate biting insects, working around poison ivy, rattlesnakes and other challenges of field work

A State of Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator's License or willingness to obtain one and ability to apply herbicides is required (MBGNA provides study materials and will cover certification expenses) 

A valid Driver's License and ability to pass a motor vehicle record check is required

The ability to move and transport up to 40lbs

Additional Information

Compensation:  $18.50 per hour
This temporary position may meet eligibility requirements for health care benefits. For more information, please see the eligibility section for temporary employees here.
For more information about Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, please visit mbgna.umich.edu