At The Garden — Employment

Employment at the Chicago Botanic Garden

TITLE: Prarie – River Management – FILLED
(mid-April to mid-December)

PURPOSE: Help manage and develop Chicago Botanic Garden 15-acre prairie and 22-acre river corridor natural areas.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES:

Perform a variety of activities related to invasive weed management including herbicide application, brush cutting and removal, digging, mowing and debris removal, deadheading, etc.

2. Perform a variety of activities related to the development and maintenance of these natural areas such as planting, watering, seed collection and cleaning, seed nursery maintenance, path clearance, litter pick-up, etc.

3. Seasonal staff will be working with other staff, interns, and volunteers. Supervision of volunteers will be required at times.

4. Safe operation of small equipment including mowers, hedge trimmers, water pumps, and sprayers will be required. Care and responsibility for Garden tools and machines is expected.

5. Learn to identify plants in work areas.

6. Assist with plant surveys, data entry, literature research, and report writing. Miscellaneous office work and organizational duties as required.

DEPARTMENT: Restoration Ecology

REPORTS TO: Ecologist

POSITION REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree and/or experience in botany, horticulture, restoration ecology, or equivalent. Knowledge of local flora preferred but not required. Some work experience desired but not required. A strong work ethic, good people skills, and an ability to carry our assignments with little supervision are required. Individuals must be able to work alone for long hours in the out-of-doors performing repetitive, arduous tasks under inclement conditions (heat, rain, mosquitoes, poison ivy).

Ability to take and pass the State of Illinois’ General Standards Pesticide License Test and carry and lift 40 pounds. Experience with Microsoft Office Excel and Word programs is desirable. A valid driver’s license is necessary with a good driving record.

References, letter of interest and resume required. School records may be requested.

MINIMUM PAY: $11/hour.