Resource/Maintenance Technician

Clayton County Conservation

Elkader, IA

Estimated pay: Est. $21–$30/hr (market estimate, not employer-stated)

Shift: Full time

**Overview**

A permanent, full-time position under the direct supervision of the Clayton County Conservation Board’s Executive Director. This employee works alongside the Operations/Maintenance staff to carry out the daily and long-range work activities in maintenance, resource management, recreation and natural areas of the Clayton County Conservation Board. Work involves the overall maintenance for parklands, facilities and equipment particularly in regard to recreation and natural resource management.

**Responsibilities**

• Assist with opening and closing the Osborne Conservation Center Native Wildlife Exhibit, including animal chores, caretaking & enrichment, and regular cleaning of animal pens
• Assist in the general upkeep of the Conservation Parks and Natural Areas including but not limited to restroom cleaning, grading parking areas, seeding, prescribed burns, tree debris removal, mowing, trimming, stocking facilities, snow removal, and storm and flood clean-up
• Track and assemble reports including but not limited to equipment maintenance & replacement schedules, monthly receipts, park maintenance schedules, capital improvement project plans, safety inspections of Conservation Property, USDA and Veterinary inspections of the Animal Exhibit, campground registrations, and inventory of supplies and materials on hand
• Maintain recreational amenities including trails, archery range, disc golf course, and canoe landings using hand and power tools.
• Develop and execute short- and long-range management plans on county properties.
• Prepare grant proposals and secure additional funding for county conservation board projects
• Recognize and relay problems or concerns with the parks
• Answer requests for information about conservation, education programs and recreation areas
• Train and supervise seasonal staff
• Work within an approved budget with expenses pre-approved by the Director
• Maintain a daily log of work activities
• Maintain long-range documentation of land management projects, e.g. tree plantings, prescribed burns, invasive plant management, etc.
• Develop interpretive and orientation materials, e.g. maps, exhibits, newsletters, wayside signage, etc.
• ▪ Occasionally develop and deliver public programs or events

**Skills**

• Operate machinery
• Service and repair machinery
• Plan, coordinate with other staff, and supervise prescribed burns
• File records and materials
• Assist partner organizations with habitat improvement projects
• Develop organizational partnerships and recruit volunteers
• Train and assist volunteers at the Conservation Center
• Attend training and certification classes
• Document incident reports and present to Director for the County Safety Committee
• Other duties as assigned

**Position Requirements**

This position requires knowledge and experience in natural resource management and park maintenance practices. This employee must be willing to work a flexible schedule, which includes weekend hours and occasional evening assignments. This employee may be required to attend monthly Conservation Board meetings to provide input on natural areas, equipment, facilities and long-range planning.

**Education, Licenses, Certifications, and Training Requirements:**

▪ Must be 18 years of age or older

▪ High School graduate or GED equivalent

▪ College degree in Conservation or Environmental Science preferred

▪ Valid driver’s license

▪ Must pass a pre-employment physical through the county’s provider

▪ Must have or be willing to acquire CPR/First Aid certificate

▪ Hunter Education Instructor Certificate preferred

▪ Familiarity with Iowa Code, Chapter 350 emphasis preferred

▪ Must have or be willing to acquire Iowa Pesticide Applicator Certification

▪ Must have or be willing to acquire S130-S190 Wildland Fire Certification

Experience:

▪ Three or more years of experience in a Conservation related field preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

▪ Ability to analyze and interpret data and prepare reports, statements and projections

▪ Ability to communicate with the public in a tactful and courteous manner

▪ Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions

▪ Knowledge of personal computer operation, and other basic office equipment

▪ Basic knowledge of trail construction and maintenance

▪ Knowledge of land management principles and experience carrying out management plans

▪ Proficiency with hand and power tools, including maintenance and troubleshooting

▪ Ability to use GPS/GIS technology and software to map and track work projects

▪ Ability to assist the public in obtaining information about outdoor recreation including fishing,

camping, hunting, environmental education programs and other related information

▪ Ability to occasionally lift 50lbs or more, climb ladders, work with arms above shoulders, work

outdoors in all seasons, and hike up to 5 miles over rough terrain

▪ Maintain up-to-date knowledge on best practices for conservation & r