Land Steward - Full-time Position
NICHES Land Trust is seeking applications for a new, full-time, permanent Land Steward position. Land stewards execute management plans and implement conservation activities to complete NICHES Land Trust’s annual stewardship objectives. Land stewards are responsible for conducting invasive species control, ecological restoration as well as construction and maintenance of improvements such as trails, bridges, and signage. Land stewards report directly to the organization's Stewardship Managers.
This position requires occasional evening and weekend work. Wages will be set at a minimum salary of $41,000 but can be increased based on candidate experience and expertise. Hours are typically Monday-Friday 8am-5pm but remain flexible based upon workload and organizational needs. The position is eligible for benefits including paid holidays, vacation, sick time, and SIMPLE IRA match. This position will cover all of NICHES’ service area covering 13 counties in West-Central Indiana. Stewards will be required to report to NICHES’s Stewardship Headquarters at 4410 E Kickapoo Rd Attica, IN 47918 on a daily basis.
Most work is performed in an outdoor setting in all weather conditions (except life-threatening weather events). The work sites are often located in remote areas, with uneven terrain, and require physical exertion and extended periods of time in isolated settings. Applicants must be able to carry equipment such as backpack sprayers, chainsaws, hand tools; wear personal protective clothing.
Essential Functions
- Conduct invasive species management, forest stand improvement, prescribed fire, and general land stewardship activities
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with land-based partners, property donors, preserve visitors, service-learning volunteers (scouts, partner organizations) and neighbors
- Engage preserve visitors and the public appropriately and represent NICHES in a professional manner with confidentiality of sensitive organizational information
- Maintain and upkeep equipment and facility space in good working order
- Create and submit detailed work reports in a timely manner
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Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Experience and skills to independently and safely operate and maintain a wide range of hand tools, power tools, vehicles and small and large engine equipment including the use of chain saws, motorized brush cutter
- Ability to lift and move 50 lbs. on an occasional basis, stand for extended periods of time, and transport self across uneven, outdoor terrain with a good sense of direction
- Valid driver’s license and demonstrated safe driving record
- Ability to read and interpret detailed plans, layouts, specifications, and maps
- Ability to competently serve the public with diplomacy and respect, including occasional encounters with irate/hostile individuals
- Ability to work alone with minimum supervision and in a team environment
- Ability to consistently demonstrate NICHES high organizational ethics and standards of conduct; strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to learn to recognize plant and animal species as required to implement management activities
- Working understanding of Office 365 applications
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To Apply
Email cover letter, resume, and three references to niches@nicheslandtrust.org or mail to 1782 N 400 E, Lafayette, IN 47905.
Applications are preferred by March 15, 2025 but will be reviewed on an on-going basis and the position will be posted until filled.
