Natural Areas Technician - Seasonal

Title: Natural Areas Technician (S)

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under general supervision, oversees one or more Park District sites and carries out as well as oversees and instructs personnel in the restoration and maintenance of all types of natural plant materials in Park District facilities such as conservatories, propagating houses, nurseries and other indoor and outdoor natural areas. Performs related duties as required.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Oversees and instructs employees in the proper propagation, cultivation and care of native plants, shrubs and trees. 
• Transplants and beds plants according to specified plans.
• Controls non-native species by using a variety of methods including applying herbicides, hand-pulling and mechanical removal. 
• Cultivates waters and generally cares for plants in propagating benches, not and cold frames, nature gardens, natural areas and greenhouses. 
• Oversees and operates greenhouses by adjusting temperatures, humidity and other conditions for the care and treatment of plant life. 
• Provides and maintains floral and other plant displays in accordance with plans, designs and specifications. 
• Operates and utilizes any mechanical or power riven apparatus or equipment essential to the performance of this position. 
• Performs all duties expected from the Natural Areas Worker.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience:

Coursework in Ecology, Horticulture, Botany, Biology or related field, supplemented by a minimum of two years of experience performing ecological activities, overseeing a crew; or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. 
Required Licenses: Valid Illinois Pesticide Applicator License or ability to obtain one within 1 month of employment. Valid Illinois Driver’s License. Chicago Wilderness Midwest Ecological Prescription Burn Training certificate. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of ecological restoration.
• Considerable knowledge of the safe application of pesticides, fungicides, etc.
• Considerable knowledge in plant identification.
• Skill in the safe operation of equipment and machinery used in land management and ecological restoration.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public and patrons and to work well with a diversity of park partners.
• Ability to oversee methods and techniques to assigned staff.

Rate of Pay:  $36.68 per hour

Union: 703       Career Service        EEO: Service-Maintenance         FLSA: Non-Exempt

February, 2015