Land Conservation Steward

About the role

The Land Conservation Steward works for the Florida Stewardship and Field Programs Department, which manages field conservation work such as wildland fire management, invasive species control and wetland restoration across Florida. The Steward performs land management and restoration in uplands and wetlands, with the main focus on prescribed fire, non-native plant control and fleet, facility and equipment maintenance. Based at Tiger Creek Preserve, the role also covers several other central Florida properties.

Key responsibilities

• Take part in prescribed and wildland fires, using ignition devices, hand tools and Type-6 fire engines and other equipment
• Control and monitor invasive non-native species, including field surveys, chemical and manual treatments, data entry and reporting
• Help with pre- and post-burn operations, fireline preparation, mop-up, patrols and monitoring data collection
• Plan and direct preserve work groups, including staff, interns and volunteers
• Maintain 4WD trucks, ATVs, UTVs, fire engines, tractors, pumps, sprayers, chainsaws, GPS units and other equipment
• Help maintain preserve facilities, trails and infrastructure, and support outreach events and tours
• Maintain accurate records and databases, and carry out other duties as assigned

Required profile

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year of training in a science-related field or land management experience
• Ability to obtain First Aid, CPR and herbicide/pesticide application certification, and NWCG Fire Fighter Type 2 qualifications (including I-100, L-180, S-190, S-130)
• Minimum arduous-level wildland fire training and health requirements, and ability to walk 3 miles with a 45-pound pack
• Valid driver's license and good driving record; compliance with the Auto Safety Program
• Ability to work a 40-hour week, including occasional weekend work and travel on short notice

Required skills

• Recognizing plant and animal species
• Operating equipment safely (chainsaw, UTV, ATV, two-way radio)
• Desired: 1-2 years' land management experience, facilities maintenance, ArcGIS, GPS hardware, database knowledge, and independent work

What we offer

• Starting pay of $19-$22 per hour for USA candidates
• Health care, flexible spending account, 401(k) with 8% employer match, parental leave, paid time off, life and disability insurance, and an employee assistance program