Natural Areas Steward

The North Carolina Botanical Garden (NCBG) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University's tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to inspire understanding, appreciation, and conservation of plants and to advance a sustainable relationship between people and nature. As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, diversity in people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone's voice is heard and everyone feels safe and welcome.

The primary purpose of the Natural Areas Steward is to assist with the stewardship of approximately 1,100 acres of conservation lands, including natural areas, preserves, and parks, and conservation easements. The Natural Areas Steward will maintain and enhance the conservation values of these protected properties by conducting on site land management, participating in ecological restoration activities, and supporting North Carolina Botanical Garden's mission. The Steward will conduct vegetation management and invasive species control, maintain trails and infrastructure, use and maintain tools, including machinery with small engines, coordinate and lead volunteers, participate in prescribed burning, and write and execute management plans. Additionally, the Steward will engage in best practices to restore natural area biodiversity and function though restoration plantings, habitat restoration, monitoring, and adaptive management. The position will work under the supervision of the Natural Areas Manager, and with the support of other team members in the Garden's Conservation program, including the Director of Conservation Programs. The Steward will frequently interact with visitors and will play a key role in maintaining the Garden's community relationships.

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of experience that demonstrates possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

-Occasional weekend and night work.

-Strong organizational skills.

-Experience with land management, and familiarity with the Piedmont flora and ecosystems.

-Experience operating mowers and tractors.

-Self-motivated and ability to work independently.

-Basic ArcGIS competency or willingness to learn.

-Wildland Firefighter Type II Certification (S130/190) or willingness to complete soon after hire.

- Ability to safely lift and move up to 50 pounds with or without accommodation.

- Ability to use small engine (chainsaws, string trimmers), tractors, herbicides with or without accommodation.

- Ability to work in extreme weather conditions including extreme heat/cold, direct sun, precipitation, and wind with or without accommodation.

Not Applicable.