Summary of Position

The Stewardship Coordinator will work in collaboration with Oceana Conservation District staff, board, volunteers, and partner organizations to manage the district’s nature preserves and coordinate stewardship and habitat restoration activities in Oceana County.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage the District’s nature preserves:
  • Develop and maintain trails and boardwalks.
  • Develop, install, and maintain signage.
  • Coordinate restoration activities and volunteer workdays to manage invasive species and revegetate areas according to management plans.
  • Monitor preserves for garbage, vandalism, trail maintenance, snow removal, etc.
  • Assist with site assessments and surveys.
  • Post notices on nature preserve property and through social media before the hunting season reminding visitors that no hunting is allowed on nature preserves, wear orange, leash pets, stay on trails, and be aware of hunting on adjacent properties.
• Develop projects and grant proposals to conduct habitat restoration activities such as invasive species removal, pollinator/grassland habitat establishment, tree/shrub plantings, and watershed planning and management.
• Coordinate and implement grant-funded restoration and/or watershed projects as awarded.
• Attend meetings with regional partners including the West Michigan Conservation Network, the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission, DNR HWA Statewide Coalition, and local watershed groups to collaborate and address land, forest, and water management needs in Oceana County.
• Coordinate highway cleanups, beach cleanups, and stream monitoring.
• Coordinate and participate in annual tree and plant sales
• Schedule, train, and supervise interns and/or volunteers.
• Establish and maintain an inventory of equipment and supplies.
• In collaboration with other staff and partners, develop a long-term vision, participate in strategic planning, and develop grant proposals to fund the District’s stewardship and educational programs.
• Provide regular reports to the Board of Directors and to the Executive Director for submission in the District’s newsletters and annual report.
• Other duties as assigned.

  Education/Experience/Skills Required

• Degree in natural resource management, fisheries/wildlife management, conservation biology, forestry, parks and recreation, or related field.
• Must be able to be a self-starter and work independently.
• Strong organizational and management skills.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication
• Light carpentry and construction skills.
• Willingness and ability to work on varying terrain in all weather conditions.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs.
• Current certification, or willingness to obtain Michigan pesticide applicators license.
• Currently holds and maintains a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to pass a background check.

Employment Classification and Work Schedule

• Position is a non-exempt, part-time position based on approximately 16-24 hours per week, with the potential to move to full-time status when funding is secured.
• Must be available to work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends.
• Position works out of the Conservation District office in Shelby, Michigan.

Compensation and Benefits

• Pay rate: $20-24 per hour; commensurate with experience.
• A generous paid time off package including holiday, sick and vacation time.
• Mileage and expense

Employment

The Oceana Conservation District, as an Equal Opportunity employer, complies with applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination. It is the policy of the Oceana Conservation District that no person, on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability, or Vietnam-era status, shall be discriminated against in employment or promotions. Oceana Conservation District is committed to furthering diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the workplace. We’re dedicated to hiring diverse talent and ensuring that we treat employees with respect and support throughout their time on our team.

Employment with the District is “at will,” permitting either party to end the employment relationship at their discretion without notice. Employment is contingent upon factors determined by the Board of Directors including, but not limited to, available funding, job performance, changes in program direction or organization.