Natural Resource Technician

This position is a full time/permanent position.  Employee works 40 hours per week and receives benefits. Vehicles for transportation on the job are provided as well as tools, personal protective equipment, and a uniform allowance.  This position is based out of the Louisa County Conservation Maintenance Shop, in Wapello.   

Primary responsibilities include all aspects of natural resources management, development and maintenance of Louisa County Conservation parks and wildlife areas.  Shares the workload with the Operations Supervisor and 2-3 part-time, seasonal conservation aides and works with other staff including the Director, Office Manager and two Naturalists.

Entry Level Requirements:

• Experience or training in the use and maintenance of a variety of equipment required such as tractors, skid steer, UTV, chain saws and prescribed fire engines and equipment.
• Valid motor vehicle operator's license required. Must have or be willing/able to obtain a Certified Driver’s License Class A (CDL). 
• Must possess or be able to acquire appropriate certification for applying pesticides (1A & 5) and herbicides.
• Must be or become certified for Prescribed Fire by taking the federal wildland fire training courses (S130/190 and more).  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Physical Demands Must be able to walk over a variety of landscapes and through steep or rough terrain.
• Ability to use hands to manipulate hand tools, such as cordless drills, chain saws, power tools, shovels, rakes and similar tools.
• Operate vehicles and machinery including trucks, tractors, planters, various types of mowers, UTV’s, skid steer and other vehicles/equipment on a regular basis.
• Occasional duties in regulatory enforcement, park operations and related activities that may including working with members of the public who are intoxicated or unruly.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, bend, carry equipment and climb ladders.
• The arduous physical fitness test for prescribed fire requires carrying 45 pounds for 3-miles in under 45 minutes.  The moderate test requires carrying 25 pounds for 2-miles in under 30 minutes.   

Cognitive Demands

• Must be able to clearly communicate with the public.
• Proficient in basic mathematics, writing and speaking skills.
• Advanced knowledge of natural resources management and best practices.
• Advanced knowledge of fish, wildlife, habitat needs and ecosystems.
• General knowledge of plumbing, carpentry, repair, electricity, welding, mechanical and related trades.
• Ability to calibrate, mix and apply chemicals.
• Utilization of various technical resource materials, manuals, etc.  

Environmental Adaptability:

• Primarily work outdoors throughout the year (75% of the time).
• Potential for contact with stinging insects, poison ivy and other allergens is high. 
• Job requires traversing rough or steep terrain. 
• Potential for personal injury due to occupational/environmental hazards is low to moderate.

For a full list of job duties see the announcement on the Louisa County Conservation page.