Blair Woods Land Manager

Travis Audubon is the oldest conservation organization in Austin with a mission to promote the enjoyment, understanding, and conservation of native birds and their habitats. You will be joining a small staff and an incredible group of volunteers who bring programs and events to Central Texans that help inspire conservation through birding.

Blair Woods is a 10-acre urban wildlife preserve located in East Austin, owned and managed by Travis Audubon Society (TAS) since 1985. Donated to TAS by Fern and Dr. Frank Blair, the Blair Woods preserve is not only a good representative of the transition zone between Blackland Prairie and Edward’s Plateau Ecological Regions, but is also the site of a rich historical background which includes a Native American presence associated with Coleman Spring, site of Fort Colorado, a turn of the century Swedish dairy farm, and remnants of Dr. Blair’s herpetological field research. The Blair Woods Land Manager is responsible for maintaining the preserve ecologically as well as the associated grounds, trails, and facilities.

This is a full-time staff position, offering $19-25/hr. commensurate with experience. The Land Manager will work a total of 40 hours per week and requires occasional evening and weekend work. The Blair Woods Land Manager will also assist with land management activities at Chaetura Canyon (~16 hours/month). Background check for final candidate required.

Job Duties: The candidate will manage the preserve to promote desired native plant growth, remove and/or treat non-native and native invasive plant species, propagate desired native plant species, maintain trails, grounds, and facilities, coordinate and lead volunteer workdays, assist with programmatic events, act as a leading member of the Blair Woods Core Team, and function as the primary point of contact for Blair Woods. The role also includes working with partner organizations to secure resources and support projects, managing the CRM to create and update events and volunteer opportunities, and providing input and progress reports on grants related to Blair Woods.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: The candidate should have a functioning knowledge of current land management best practices, familiarity with the native flora and fauna of the Blackland Prairie and Edward’s Plateau ecosystems, ability to identify non-native and invasive plants, experience with native plant propagation, experience using a line-trimmer and chainsaw, possess basic carpentry and plumbing skills, and have experience with trail maintenance. Pesticide applicators license required or the ability to acquire one.

Education: The preferred candidate should possess a B.S. in Land Management, Conservation, Ecology, Biology or related fields. In lieu of a B.S. a candidate may substitute 3 years of demonstrated land management experience.

Physical Requirements: The candidate should be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and carry a 25 pound backpack for distances up to one-half mile. The candidate should be comfortable working outside in all conditions, at all times of the year, and with little direct supervision.

To apply, please email your resume, letter, and contact information for two references to Chris Murray at chris@travisaudubon.org with “Blair Woods Land Manager” in the subject line. Cover letter should be 500 words or less and answer the following questions:

• What competencies do you have that will support your success in this position?
• Why are you interested in working in land management at Blair Woods?

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Materials will be accepted on a rolling basis or until the position is filled. No calls please.