The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. For more than a century, the Museum has inspired visitors to connect with the wonders of science and nature. Today, we continue that legacy—and remain committed to sharing our resources to promote a healthy future for both humans and the planet. 

As Ohio’s largest natural history museum, we use our vast collections and state-of-the-art facilities to contribute to scientific understanding worldwide. Our scientists conduct research across a variety of disciplines, making groundbreaking discoveries about early human ancestors, ancient Ohio, animal and plant life around the world, and more. We steward more than 12,500 acres of wild habitats through our Natural Areas Program, working to protect the environment of northern Ohio and the diverse species that call it home.

The Museum seeks a dedicated professional to join our Natural Areas team.

Job Summary:

The mission of the Natural Areas division is to identify and protect the best remnants of native habitats present in the Lake Erie and Upper Ohio River drainage prior to settlement. As a Restoration Technician, you will be a part of a unique approach to stewardship and biodiversity management. This position is based out of Mentor, Ohio and includes daily travel to nearby work sites. This is a temporary position working up to 40 hours per week; employment is expected to begin in May and last until August.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (Must be able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation):

• Utilize a range of land management and invasive species control techniques, including the operation of appropriate tools and equipment
• Operate and maintain hand and power tools to implement invasive plant management
• Assist with data collection and entry via monitoring and mapping of invasive plant populations and treatment areas
• Analyze GPS and aerial drone mapping surveys and incorporate into GIS maps to prioritize treatment
• Assist in plant identification using taxonomic field guides
• Identify, collect, and disseminate seeds and cuttings to restore marsh habitat
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Education/Experience: 

High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience. Valid driver’s license required. Bachelor’s degree or current undergrad pursuing a degree from a four-year college or university with a focus in Biology, Botany, Restoration Ecology, or a related field preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Familiarity with taxonomic keys and/or field identification guides for plants and animals
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to operate equipment such as hand tools, 4-wheel-drive vehicles, UTV, or similar equipment in a safe and efficient manner
• Ability to identify non-native invasive plants and utilize different techniques to remove them
• Experience in fieldwork using a variety of tools
• Familiarity with the local, native flora of Northeast Ohio.   
• Desire to learn a variety of land management and invasive species management techniques
• Have reliable transportation to commute between work sites across Northeast Ohio

Working Conditions: 

This position includes working outdoors in all weather conditions, including inclement weather, exposure to biting or stinging insects, and poisonous or prickly plants. Locations may be semi-remote and offer limited access to indoor facilities. Must be able to walk for prolonged periods, navigate physically challenging terrain, and perform strenuous, labor-intensive field work. Must be able to lift 50 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, ADA EMPLOYER, and a SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE