Natural Resources Aide

The Morton Arboretum is a world-renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and growing trees locally and globally. We are seeking a natural resources aide to join our team to perform a variety of duties relating to the maintenance and restoration of woodland, wetland, prairie, and savanna ecosystems. The successful candidate must be willing to work outside in all weather conditions, alone or as part of a team, and have strong communication skills and a great attitude. 

Position Summary: Perform a variety of duties relating to the maintenance and restoration of woodland, wetland, prairie, and aquatic natural areas.  Communicate with the supervisor to understand and achieve natural area objectives.

Essential Functions: 

• Assist with planting and maintaining native species installations (watering, caging, mulching, and pruning) throughout the natural areas. 

• Control invasive plant species using chemical or mechanical controls in accordance with prescribed standards. 

• Collect and process seeds and assist in propagating plants. Prepare areas for seed broadcasting and planting native vegetation for ecological restoration.

• Implement prescribed burns and winter projects within natural areas.

• Learn, understand, and demonstrate the ability to safely operate and maintain all pesticides, tools and equipment according to the operator’s manuals. 

• Provide guidance and direction to volunteers.

• Assist with the set-up for special events and other large-scale grounds projects, as assigned.

• Demonstrate alignment with the Arboretum’s employee core values.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent required, Associate degree preferred. Interest and familiarity with concepts and techniques used in natural resources management required. Interest in native plants and their proper culture and care. Ability to safely operate essential equipment and tools. Must be able to obtain and maintain an Illinois Pesticide Operator’s License within 30 days of hire. Must be able to obtain Chicago Wilderness Prescribed Burn Training certificate within first year. Must become certified and maintain certification in First Aid and CPR (classes provided). Must possess a valid driver’s license, which is subject to insurability and an annual Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) report. Basic computer proficiency and experience with Google applications beneficial. 

Success Factors: Excellent physical condition. Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions. Willingness to work alone or as part of a team. Ability to learn basic GIS mapping and GPS technology skills. 

Physical Demands and Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Physical Demands: Requires regular physical activity: limited lifting (up to 100 lbs. assisted), and carrying (up to 50 lbs.), bending, pushing and pulling. Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment required.

• Environment: Arboretum grounds. Work is performed primarily outdoors. Exposure to loud or prolonged noise and/or vibration. Exposure to chemicals and pesticides. 

• Equipment: Herbicide and related application sprayers and equipment, prescribed burn equipment, equipment to control invasive species, chainsaw, landscape equipment, Arboretum utility vehicles, two-way radio, general office equipment.

• Schedule: Work requires occasional weekend hours.

The expected hiring range is between $20.00- $22.00/hour based on experience that will be evaluated during the candidate selection process, along with internal equity. This position is also eligible for a competitive benefits package.

For full consideration, please submit a resume and a cover letter

The Morton Arboretum is a champion for diversity, supporting a culture of inclusion that attracts, inspires, and engages people to achieve success. The Arboretum is committed to hire and develop employees based on job-related qualifications irrespective of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran status. To increase diversity in professions related to the public garden realm, we encourage applications from underrepresented minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans.  

The Morton Arboretum is dedicated to complying with our obligations as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All applicants are guaranteed equal consideration for employment.