Blair Woods Land Steward

Travis Audubon is the oldest conservation organization in Austin with a mission to promote the enjoyment, understanding, and conservation of native birds and their habitats. You will be joining a small staff and an incredible group of volunteers who bring programs and events to Central Texans that help inspire conservation through birding. 

Blair Woods is a 10-acre urban preserve located in East Austin, owned and managed by Travis Audubon Society (TAS) since 1985. Donated to TAS by Fern and Dr. Frank Blair, the Blair Woods preserve is not only a good representative of the Blackland Prairie Ecological Region, but also the site of a rich historical background which includes a Native American presence associated with Coleman Spring, site of Fort Colorado, a turn of the century Swedish dairy farm, and remnants of Dr. Blair’s herpetological field research. The Blair Woods Land Manager is responsible for maintaining the preserve ecologically as well as the associated grounds, trails, and facilities.

This is a part-time staff position, offering $19-21/hr. commensurate with experience. This is a 6-month temporary position with the possibility of an extension. The Land Steward may work up to 25 hours per week and requires occasional evening and weekend work. Background check for final candidate required. 

Job Duties: The candidate will manage the preserve to promote desired native plant
growth, remove and/or treat non-native and native invasive plant species, propagate
desired native plant species, maintain trails, grounds, and facilities, coordinate and lead
volunteer workdays, and act as a liaison with the Blair Woods Core Team and Austin
Wildlife Rescue.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: The candidate should have a functioning knowledge of current land management best practices, familiarity with the native flora and fauna of the Blackland Prairie ecosystem, ability to identify non-native and invasive plants, experience with native plant propagation, experience using a line-trimmer and chainsaw, possess basic carpentry and plumbing skills, and have experience with trail maintenance. Herbicide applicators license preferred or ability to acquire one.

Education: The preferred candidate should possess a B.S. in Land Management, Conservation, Ecology, Biology or related fields. In lieu of a B.S. a candidate may substitute 3 years of demonstrated land management experience.

Physical Requirements: The candidate should be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and carry a backpack of 25 lbs. for distances up to one-half mile. The candidate should be comfortable working outside in all conditions and at all times of the year.