Are you interested in gaining stewardship experience in grassland and shrub-steppe plant communities such as the Boardman Grasslands in North-Central Oregon?  Does the idea of working and living in a very remote area performing on the ground, physical tasks that contributes to our ambitious conservation goals intrigue you?  Our Columbia Basin Field Assistant position could be an ideal opportunity for you to develop your land management skills!

As the Columbia Basin Field Assistant, you will be out in the field spraying herbicides using a backpack sprayer, hand removing invasive species, conducting vegetation mapping and wildlife monitoring and accomplishing other essential grassland restoration activities.  You will be a part of a team of four, often working independently to complete these activities.  You’ll also gain experience compiling and entering data that contributes to key reports that track our progress.

In case you’re not familiar with us, The Nature Conservancy is the leading conservation organization working to make a positive impact around the world in more than 72 countries, all 50 United States, and your neighborhood.  Our mission is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. One of our core values is our commitment to diversity therefore we are committed to a globally diverse and culturally competent workforce. Visit www.nature.org/aboutus to learn more.

As a leader in Oregon’s conservation community, our team of scientists and problem solvers directly protects the iconic landscapes and inspiring locations that define our great state. From working to reduce the severity of fires in our forests and designing our clean water future to developing innovative technologies with fisherman and ranchers that sustainably protect both nature and livelihoods, The Nature Conservancy is building a future where people and nature thrive together.

The Columbia Basin Field Assistant position is a 35 hour per week, 3-month seasonal position that begins in March 23, 2020 and ends on June 11, 2020.  The pay for this position is $16.75 per hour.  This position requires living in shared housing provided by the Conservancy in Ione.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. lawn mower, ATV, tractor, radios, etc.).
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Experience performing physical work.
• Experience with common software applications (Word, Excel, Web browsers).
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide application).
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Desired Qualifications:

• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• 1-year experience in land management or related field.
• Experience operating a backpack herbicide sprayer and mixing herbicides in a safe manner.
• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
• Experience with GPS and GIS.