Overview

Cincinnati Nature Center is training tomorrow’s environmental leaders. The purpose of the new Applied Conservation Associate program at Cincinnati Nature Center is to provide a wide range of post-graduate experiences that will help develop the skills of women interested in pursuing careers in the field of land and water conservation.  This 12-month appointment offers hands-on skill development and appropriate levels of challenge at one of the nation’s largest nature centers.  The program is for women with a baccalaureate degree in a science filed who are interested in pursuing a career in applied conservation, and includes training, evaluation, as well as portfolio building an career networking opportunities.  The Applied Conservation Associate will play a key role in supporting the Nature Center’s Native Plant Propagation Program and land stewardship projects on and off site.

Essential Job Responsibilities:

  • Invasive species management
  • GPS/GIS mapping
  • Prescribed burns
  • Habitat/species monitoring and assessment
  • Tree plantings
  • Butterfly monitoring
  • Monarch Larvae monitoring
  • Bluebird monitoring
  • Stream monitoring
  • Vernal Pool monitoring
  • Pond monitoring
  • Project Feeder Watch
  • Collection, cleaning, storage, stratification, and cataloging of native seeds
  • Collection of germination and survivorship data for seeds
  • Care of nursery and greenhouse plants
  • Transplanting plants into beds
  • Monitoring bed success and health
  • Layout and planting of exhibit beds and gardens
  • Weeding
  • Mulching
  • Pruning
  • Mowing & Manicuring
  • Monitoring bed success and health
  • CONSULTATION SERVICES: Provide assistance in prepping and planting offsite prairie installation and / or native landscaping contracts.
  • EDUCATION: Assist with development of interpretive signage and brochures, delivery of public gardening workshops and other educational programs in collaboration with staff from both Education and Visitor Experience teams.
  • SPECIAL EVENTS:  Provides support for special community/fundraising events as needed.  These events may fall after hours or on weekends.

Education and Competencies:

  • Bachelor’s degree in conservation, natural resource, field biology or related field
  • Strong written and oral communication skills and proficiency in public speaking
  • Proficiency in using word processing and spreadsheet software
  • GIS experience a plus

Communication:

  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Must maintain confidentiality of sensitive and confidential information

Qualifications:

  • Commitment and ability to articulate CNC Mission
  • Knowledge of or interest in botany and ecology
  • Interest in physical work on the land
  • Flexibility to work independently and with others in a team setting
  • A sense of humor, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit
  • Self-motivated, with a strong work ethic and professional, positive attitude
  • Ability and desire to learn
  • Experience in a camp or outdoor teaching environment preferred
  • Must pass a background check and remain current on First Aid/CPR

Computer Skills:

  • Proficient in Word, Power Point, Excel and other related software
  • GIS familiarity is a plus

Work Environment:

  • Work must be performed on-site.
  • Work is performed indoors, in an office environment and outdoors in a nature preserve.
  • Local travel may be required. Some travel to regional conferences may be required. When a Nature Center vehicle is not available, the use of personal vehicle (reimbursed at IRS recommended rate) may be needed for Cincinnati Nature Center business.