Ecological Restoration Assistant - PT

Job Summary About the Role

With some direction from the Ecological Restoration Supervisor, take ownership of the native garden areas of the St Charles Park District, as well as maintain the trail systems within the natural areas. Assist with restoration efforts through occasional seed collection, seed processing, and plant propagation. The goal of this position is to maintain a high quality and accessible experience of our natural areas for the St. Charles community.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

This position is well suited for someone who is highly self-motivated, structured, and possesses an exceptional skill of time management. This person must be safety-minded and able to communicate clearly the small but numerous tasks required of this role.

Required: Ability to identify and distinguish native plants and common weeds. Some experience with native plantings with a basic knowledge of plant health needs, such as mulching, watering, and appropriate levels of light. Some knowledge of plant propagation and seed collection/processing is desired. Ability to safely use hand and power tools, such as pruners, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, and water pumps. Ability to safely use a UTV and tow-behind equipment. Must possess or obtain an Illinois Pesticide Applicator license within 30 days of hire. A valid Illinois State Driver’s License is required. Maintain current CPR/AED/First Aid Certification and DCFS Mandated Reporter Certification or obtain certification within 30 days of hire.

Essential Functions of the Position or Role

Park District Cornerstones

• Follow all departmental safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of Park District’s safety and risk management program.
• Work cooperatively and collaboratively with residents, colleagues, the public, PDRMA and other agencies or organizations as delegated.
• Recommends improvements and efficiencies to better accomplish individual and district goals in the best interests of the St. Charles Park District community.
• Comply with park district policies and administrative procedures.

Responsibilities

Under the direction and supervision of the Ecological Restoration Supervisor, the Ecological Restoration Assistant shall complete all assigned duties to the best of their abilities, offering suggestions of better ways to accomplish jobs and be ever mindful of the best interests of the St. Charles Park District and of fellow employees. This position requires extensive knowledge and ability to:

• Work with the Ecological Restoration Supervisor to develop maintenance plans for all native gardens and native area trail systems.
• Keep gardens properly maintained through planting, pruning, watering, mulching, weeding, and herbicide application.
• Keep trails in all natural areas mowed and trimmed on a rotating basis.
• Keep all signage visible in natural areas and gardens.
• Operate power equipment and motorized equipment as required.
• Place appropriate signage in native gardens.
• Communicate any additional maintenance needs or ideas to Ecological Restoration Supervisor.
• Assist in seed collection, processing, and storage as needed and directed.
• Assist in plant propagation as needed and directed.
• Continually upgrade knowledge of all aspects of position.
• Effectively communicate both orally and in writing.

Marginal Functions of the Position

• Perform other related duties and/or special projects as assigned.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

EEO Statement and Accommodations

The St Charles Park District is an equal opportunity employer under all state and federal laws and regulations. The job responsibilities are subject to accommodations pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you require assistance or accommodation with the application process, please contact the Business Department at 630-584-1055.

The Park District offers the following benefits to all Part-Time Category II employees:

• Time Off: The Park District provides paid vacation days in accordance with the Park District’s vacation policies, rules, and regulations.
• Retirement: Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension plan
  • Includes Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Benefit
• Additional District Incentives
  • Paid Training
  • Discounts for Programs