Position Title: Stewardship Field Crew Member

Position Status: Non-Exempt; Full-Time; Hourly; Seasonal

Seasonal Term:  May 12, 2025 – August 15, 2025 (Up to 14 weeks)

Supervisor: Field Crew Leader, Preserve Stewardship Staff

Wage: $18/hr

Position Objective: The Stewardship Field Crew Members (3 positions) will work with Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC) staff to implement site maintenance and habitat management of an extensive system of nature preserves and sanctuaries located across a five-county service area in northern Michigan. The position will primarily involve sign management (installation, replacement, data recording); trail and infrastructure maintenance and construction (benches, informational kiosks, fences, etc.), and invasive species control (mostly manual control, but may also include some herbicide application). Crew members will also have opportunities to attend training events to gain a broader understanding of natural resources management.

Housing Available: GTRLC has co-ed housing available for seasonal staff on its Torch River Ridge Nature Preserve. This property is located at the southern end of Torch Lake and is approximately twenty-five miles from the main office. GTRLC charges a modest fee of $125/month including all utilities and internet service.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities*:

Ecological Restoration – 50%

• Implement invasive vegetation control methods on nature preserves, sanctuaries, and community assist properties under the management of GTRLC stewardship staff
• Assist in the cultivation of native plants used for restoration in GTRLC’s native plant greenhouse
• Participate in invasive species and restoration workdays alongside volunteers

Preserve Maintenance – 40%

• Maintain preserve infrastructure such as kiosks, gates, signs, fences, boardwalks, and benches
• Perform trail maintenance using various hand-held tools of both mechanical and powered nature
• Respond to emerging issues on GTRLC properties in a timely manner

Team Duties – 5%

• Participate in Stewardship Team discussions as needed
• The candidate will be expected to interact with visitors positively, with patience, great customer service, and to be prepared to answer a wide range of questions while following essential talking points provided by our Communications team

Maintain Shop, Field Equipment, and Tools – 5%

• Conduct maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of GTRLC’s tools and equipment

Work Environment: Hours are typically 7:00am – 5:00pm, Monday -Thursday. Weekend or evening work during special events may be requested.

Physical Factors: The ability to work both indoors and outdoors, to carry necessary equipment and supplies, and occasionally work long hours in rough terrain and possibly inclement weather.

Training, Education, and Experience:

• Currently seeking a degree in a natural resource management or related discipline

OR

• High school diploma and one year (season) of experience in invasive species management, light construction, or related experience

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities):

• Excellent verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to self-motivate and be able to accomplish daily tasks without direct supervision while communicating regularly with supervisor
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to maintain a positive, professional, and courteous attitude
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Willingness and ability to work long hours in strenuous outdoor conditions
• Valid Driver’s License and reliable transportation

Desired:

• Field experience and familiarity with Michigan flora and fauna
• Experience working with volunteers
• Knowledge of northern ecological principles
• Computer literacy, knowledge of GIS and field mapping

*Will be required to perform other duties as requested, directed, or assigned