Stewardship Technician - Seasonal

Silhouette in Greens – Rhonda Berger

Stewardship Technician - Seasonal

Six Rivers Land Conservancy
4480 Orion Road, Rochester, MI 48306

$18 – $20 an hour – Temporary
Weekends as needed
Evenings as needed
Monday to Friday

Love working outdoors and making a real impact on the land? Six Rivers Land Conservancy is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to protecting and stewarding natural lands for the benefit of people and wildlife across southeastern Michigan. We are hiring a Seasonal Stewardship Technician to support hands-on land management, invasive species control, and ecological restoration.

This is a field-based role ideal for someone who enjoys physically active work, values ecological stewardship, and wants meaningful conservation experience.

Job Description

The seasonal Stewardship Technician supports stewardship and invasive species management activities for Six Rivers Land Conservancy and the Lake St. Clair Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (LSC CISMA). You’ll work across diverse landscapes throughout our service area – including Oakland, Macomb, Lapeer, Genesee, St. Clair, and Wayne counties – from wetlands and forests to privately held properties and preserves, using science-informed practices to protect and restore native habitats.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys active, physically demanding outdoor work, values safety and collaboration, and wants to grow their skills in land management and conservation.

You’ll work closely with Six Rivers staff, CISMA partners, municipalities, volunteers, and community members, and may also assist with outreach, education, and landowner interactions.

Schedule & Benefits

  • Seasonal position (up to 1,500 hours starting on or before March through October 2026)
  • Full-time or part-time scheduling options may be available over the season
  • Typical hours: Monday – Friday, 8:15 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
  • Occasional evenings or weekends may be required
  • Eligible for paid sick leave under Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act (1 hour per 30 hours worked)

What You’ll Do

Stewardship & Invasive Species Management (~80%)

  • Conduct invasive species management using manual, mechanical, and chemical methods aligned with ecological best practices
  • Operate field equipment including brushcutters, chainsaws, backpack sprayers, and hand tools
  • Support habitat restoration efforts such as seed collection, brush clearing, and site maintenance
  • Assist with early detection and rapid response efforts
  • Monitor and document invasive species treatments using GPS units and data collection tools
  • Apply herbicides following training, certification, and safety protocols
  • Maintain accurate treatment records and assist with reporting and compliance documentation
  • Operate trucks, trailers, and utility vehicles, including backing and maneuvering in varied conditions
  • Perform basic vehicle and equipment inspections and maintenance
  • Complete physically demanding work such as lifting, hauling, dragging, and working on uneven terrain
  • Follow all safety protocols and applicable regulations

Outreach & Program Support (~20%)

  • Assist with landowner outreach and site visits
  • Support community engagement efforts such as workshops, tabling events, and educational programs
  • Interact professionally with partners, volunteers, and the public
  • Assist with outreach materials, social media content, and public information as needed
  • Support administrative or organizational needs as assigned

What We’re Looking For:

  • Ability to safely operate vehicles, trailers, and powered field equipment
  • Comfort performing physically demanding outdoor work in varied weather conditions
  • Interest in or knowledge of invasive species identification and integrated pest management
  • Interest in ecological systems, native plant communities, and habitat restoration
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining safety and quality standards
  • Basic proficiency with GPS units, data collection tools, and computer applications
  • Willingness to work flexible schedules, including occasional evenings or weekends

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, environmental science, ecology, land management, or a related field — or equivalent relevant experience
  • At least one year of experience in conservation fieldwork, land management, invasive species control, restoration, landscaping, or related work
  • Possession of or willingness to obtain Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification
  • Willingness to obtain Red Cross First Aid/CPR certification
  • Valid Michigan driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record and ability to pass background checks
  • Reliable transportation and ability to transport equipment

This role is primarily field-based and includes:

  • Working outdoors in heat, cold, rain, wind, and humidity when conditions are deemed safe
  • Navigating uneven terrain including wetlands, forests, steep slopes, and off-trail environments
  • Lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling up to 50 pounds
  • Repetitive motions and sustained physical activity using hand and powered tools
  • Exposure to seasonal outdoor hazards such as insects, ticks, and poison ivy
  • Occasional roadside or public-use area work requiring situational awareness

Required personal protective equipment (PPE), training, and safety protocols will be provided.

Why Work With Six Rivers?

At Six Rivers Land Conservancy, we believe conservation is both hard work and deeply rewarding. Our team is collaborative, mission-driven, and grounded in respect for people and the land. If you’re looking for a role where your work directly contributes to healthier ecosystems and stronger communities – and where your efforts truly matter – we’d love to hear from you. For more information about Six Rivers Land Conservancy, please visit our website at: https://sixriversrlc.org

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