Position Title: Riparian Restoration Specialist/ Native Plant Botanist / Horticulturalist
Location: Northwest, AR
Reports To: Restoration Program Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview:

The Riparian Restoration Specialist is primarily a field-based position focused on all riparian aspects of Natural State Streams restoration projects.  This includes developing comprehensive planting and establishment plans, managing invasive species, and collaborating with stakeholders to enhance and maintain riparian ecosystems.  This position will also be responsible for staying up to date on the best management practices for eco-friendly invasive species control, as well as vegetation establishment. The ideal candidate will have a strong ecology, botany, and habitat restoration background, with practical experience in implementing and monitoring restoration projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Erosion Control & Bioenginering: Manage efforts to install and implement all erosion control measures post-construction along streams and waterways.
• Riparian Planting Plans: Develop and implement site-specific riparian planting plans, including selecting native seed and plant species, planting techniques, and timelines to support ecosystem restoration goals.
• Planting Establishment Plans: Create and execute detailed establishment plans to ensure successful growth and survival of planted species, including irrigation scheduling, soil preparation, and ongoing maintenance.
• Invasive Species Control: Identify and manage invasive plant species through appropriate control measures, such as mechanical removal, herbicide application, or biological controls.
• Site Assessments: Conduct field assessments to evaluate riparian habitat conditions, including vegetation surveys, soil analysis, and hydrologic assessments.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Develop and implement monitoring protocols to track project success, including data collection, analysis, and reporting on vegetation health, invasive species management, and overall project outcomes.
• Health and Safety Compliance: Ensure all field activities comply with health and safety regulations and best practices.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Botany, Natural Resource Management, or a related field.
• 1-3 years of experience in riparian restoration, native plant propagation, or habitat restoration.
• Strong knowledge of native and invasive plant species identification and management.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in varying field conditions.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in pesticide application or experience with herbicide use.
• Experience with ecological monitoring methods and data analysis.
• Proficiency in using GIS and other mapping software for project planning and monitoring.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including landowners, governmental agencies, and non-profit organizations.
• Knowledge of hydrology and soil science related to riparian ecosystems.
• Experience with Tractor and ATV Operation
• Experience with Heavy Equipment Operation including excavator, bulldozer, and/or skid steer.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work outdoors in diverse weather conditions and terrain.
• Capability to lift to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks.