Forest Technician

Hermann Park is one of Houston’s premier historic green spaces, home to the city’s most iconic public gardens and park amenities. Hermann Park Conservancy is a citizens’ organization dedicated to the stewardship and improvement of Hermann Park, today and for generations to come. The Forestry Tech will provide support to the Conservancy’s goals of stewardship and conservation by working in coordination with Conservancy staff and the Director of Grounds and Natural Areas. This position functions as part of a team effort to meet the needs of the organization and to help maintain areas within Hermann Park.

Duties and Responsibilities

· Participation in the overall care and maintenance of trees throughout the Park

· Assist with planting trees and ground covers, mulching, pruning limbs/branches and watering trees

· Promote healthy ecosystems by removing invasive species, mitigate erosion and improve soil health

· Assist in the conservation of native prairie exhibits, grasslands and native habitat projects

· Remove trash and tree debris from designated areas

· Shovel, load, transport and spread bulk materials as mulch or soil

· Use hand tools and operate battery equipment including but not limited to golf carts, sprayers, and saws

· Assist with leading volunteers or community service crews

· Effectively work in group settings or independently with minimal supervision; participate in group and special projects as required

· Clean and secure all equipment at the end of the day; notify supervisor of any tool or supply needs

· Comply with all HPC rules, policies and procedures, and the requirements of the job description

· Ensure all mishaps, injuries, and incidents are reported immediately and in writing to a manager

· Contribute to a team effort

· Other duties as assigned

Preferred Qualifications

· Minimum education: High school diploma

· 3 years experience in a garden, park, or landscaping setting

· Basic computer skills including use of Microsoft Office and Microsoft Excel

Working Conditions

· Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license with a current clean record, able to work legally in the United States.

· Must pass a background check, pre-employment drug test, and participate in random drug testing program.

· Required to work at a public park with a high degree of public interaction.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Required to perform work outdoors, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.

· Required to perform manual labor, including lifting supplies and materials up to 50 lbs.

· Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, stand, and walk for extended periods of time.

· Ability to operate power equipment throughout the day.

· Must conform to Hermann Park Conservancy dress and grooming standards, work rules, and safety procedures.

· Able to work flexible hours as needed, including a rotation for nights, weekends, and holidays.

Compensation and Hours

· $15 hourly

· Flexible schedule, Monday – Friday, 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. weekend and holiday availability a must. Full and half day shifts are available.

· Applicants must be able to work a minimum of 20 hours per week. Weekly schedules average 20-24 hours and may change due to weather or business needs

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15