Huron Pines · Michigan · posted today
Position Summary: The Restoration Field Specialist is a field-based position that will implement invasive species management activities, conduct native plantings and seed collection, and assist with fuels management across aquatic and terrestrial systems in NE Lower Michigan. This position will play a crucial role in collaborating with other staff to coordinate field workdays and supervising seasonal field staff. The Restoration Field Specialist will also manage private landowner relationships, manage project permitting requirements, and support community relationships. This position is designed for someone who can work both independently and as a leader in day-to-day field logistics. Location: This position is based in the Huron Pines Office in Alpena, Michigan Employment Term: Full-time, non-exempt POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Field Implementation and Stewardship - 60% • Implement invasive species management activities using chemical and mechanical control methods with Huron Pines staff, partners and volunteers. • Assist with habitat enhancement activities including monitoring threatened and endangered species, fuels management, prescribed burns, native plantings, erosion control and seed collection. • Ensure safe operation, transport, cleaning and decontamination of vehicles, watercraft and field equipment. Responsible for tracking and maintaining vehicles and equipment as well as additional supplies. • Collect accurate field data including electronic forms, GPS/GIS data, and photo documentation. Create basic GIS maps as needed. • Coordinate private landowner management activities including conducting site visits, evaluating management options to meet landowner goals, developing small-scale management agreements, and organizing associated data. Prepare and submit work summaries, updates and reports to private landowners as needed. Coordination and Team Support - 30% • Assist project managers with crew scheduling, including organizing weekly work plans, coordinating logistics and communicating changes clearly to staff. Support maintenance of shared calendars, lodging plans and travel coordination for multi-day field assignments. • Supervise the seasonal field crew by ensuring they are prepared, tasks are clearly communicated and work is completed efficiently and safely. Ensure compliance with Huron Pines policies and procedures. • Review seasonal crew field reports for completeness and accuracy prior to submission, as requested by project managers. • Maintain consistent communication with program staff regarding field conditions, progress, safety concerns and emerging needs. When needed, lead seasonal crew in alternate pre-approved activities if planned work is completed early or cannot be completed due to weather or other circumstances. • Maintain and implement compliance with state, federal, and other permits as needed in coordination with program staff. Complete permit reporting. • Assist in maintaining and tracking collected seed stock. Additionally assist with monitoring and maintenance of past planting sites. • Collaborate on seasonal field crew recruitment, onboarding and training activities. Administration - 10% • Represent Huron Pines professionally when interacting with landowners, community members and partners in the field. • Support volunteer workdays and site tours, as assigned. • Promote Huron Pines work through participation in marketing and communications efforts such as publications, news stories, social media posts and videography. • Help foster positive relationships with local communities and partners by communicating project goals, stewardship values and on-the-ground outcomes. • Maintain an up to date calendar, submit weekly updates to supervisor and complete accurate timesheets, mileage logs, and reimbursements/receipts. Attend staff and project management meetings. Required Qualifications • Successful prior experience in a field-based stewardship role. • Hold and maintain a valid driver’s license, insurance and ability to operate Huron Pines vehicles. • Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team in variable field conditions. • Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to coordinate schedules and relay information clearly. • Ability to obtain and maintain a Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certificate. • Ability to hike and work outdoors in challenging terrain and weather while carrying equipment up to 30 pounds. • Ability to comply with safety protocols and pass required background or security checks. • Ability to identify common invasive, native and at-risk plant species in Michigan. • Experience with GPS/GIS data collection (ESRI products preferred). • Proficiency operating boats, trailers, off-road vehicles, and hand or power tools. • Comfort interacting with landowners, volunteers, and partners in a professional setting. Preferred Qualifications • Proficiency in ArcPro and ArcOnline (ESRI Products). • Experience operating and maintaining chainsaws, brushcutters, and similar cutting equipment. • Experience operating heavy equipment such as forestry mowers, skid steers, and tractors. • Botany certifications, degrees, or an equivalent amount of experience. Benefits and Compensation • This position pays $25/hour. • Four 10-hour workdays (generally Monday–Thursday) during the active field season. During the winter months, 5 days/week. Not to exceed 40 hours per week. • Hybrid work schedules available with supervisor approval during winter months. • Six paid federal holidays, four flexible 'holidays', and accrued flexible PTO at a rate of 6 hours per pay period. • Work vehicles are generally available; mileage reimbursement if a personal vehicle is required. • Training opportunities, professional skill development and continued career growth within Huron Pines. • Apparel and safety gear provided. • Benefits as listed in the Employee Handbook such as health care, life and disability insurance, retirement, cell phone plan and other applicable benefits. Huron Pines provides equal employment opportunity and will not discriminate against an individual with respect to employment, compensation, term, condition, or privilege of employment, because of religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and sexual orientation), sexual preference, height, weight, disability, genetic information, marital status or other legally protected status.
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