Natural Resource Specialists
Internship Description:
We are seeking qualified applicants for field research and natural resource management positions for ongoing terrestrial ecological research, monitoring, and invasive plant control projects located in Cleveland Metroparks. Positions run for various lengths ranging from 2 to 6 months (250 to 1000 hours). Positions will work in reservations across entire park district.
· Invasive Plant Management Crew - Works on invasive plant control team as part of intensive habitat restoration programs at Cleveland Metroparks. The IPMP technicians must have the ability to utilize hand tools such as loppers and pruning shears and carry 50 pound packs for up to 8 hours per day. Preference will be given to those with previous experience with pesticide application, mixing chemicals, and pesticide certification. Reports to Invasive Plant Coordinator.
o Implementing mechanical and selective chemical control of invasive plant species
o Applicants with skills using GPS units and ArcGIS, entering data in Excel or Access, report writing, and data analysis will be given preference
· Natural Resource Management Crew -Works on the Cleveland Metroparks' natural resource management team to assist with storm water project maintenance, invasive plant removal and herbicide application, native plant installation, wildlife management, volunteer projects, and a variety of other natural resource activities. In addition to the general job requirements, the crew members must have the ability to work long hours in field conditions, utilize hand tools such as loppers and pruning shears, and carry a 50 pound pack for up to 8 hours per day. Reports to the Natural Resources Area Manager at West Creek Reservation. Implementing a variety of natural resource enhancement projects.
o Working with and applying herbicides
o Guiding volunteer activities (including youth projects)
o Flexible schedule, some nights and weekends required
o Comfort with a variety of hand and power tools
· Field Botanist Technicians - Works in the Plant Community Assessment Program and the Wetland Ecology program to assist with long-term vegetation monitoring in Cleveland Metroparks. Assisting field botanist and crew members in navigating to, setting up and sampling 0.1 hectare (20 m x 50m) permanent vegetation sampling plots. Reports to Vegetation Research Coordinator at West Creek Reservation.
o Familiarity with Ohio Flora including wetland plants
o Ability to learn vegetation sampling protocols quickly is preferred.
Skills required:
See position descriptions above for specific skills. Overall skills required include:
- Knowledge and practical outdoor work experience including plant, insect, mammal, or bird identification skills, farming, forestry, hydrology, aquatic ecology, civil engineering, GIS or a strong desire and aptitude to develop these skills.
- Ability to read maps, follow written directions, and navigate through forest or wetland areas.
- Demonstrated responsible attitude and work ethic
- Experience in computer applications including word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, database, and/or GIS and GPS and associated hardware is desirable.
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to work independently or as a member of a diverse team to achieve project goals
- Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain a positive working relationship with the public and Cleveland Metroparks staff.
- Demonstrated experience and knowledge of natural resource conservation practices and procedures preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and holidays as needed.
- Ability to work in adverse conditions including rain, high or low temperatures, high humidity, insects, and difficult terrain.
- Ability to walk up to 5 miles daily through challenging terrain including heavy vegetation, wetlands, and steep slopes.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.