Restoration Technician
Who We Are
Founded in 1989, the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation is a watershed-based nonprofit whose mission is to restore and conserve the Laguna de Santa Rosa and the surrounding watershed, and inspire public appreciation of this RAMSAR wetland of International importance. We collaborate with many stakeholders to restore and conserve the Laguna. The Foundation is involved in various vital efforts in the watershed through our partnerships, including restoring native habitats, invasive species, Sonoma County native plant propagation, and vernal pool stewardship.
About the Position
Working under the supervision of the Restoration Field Supervisor, the Restoration Technician works on various projects including native plant propagation, riparian restoration, endangered species monitoring and restoration and invasive species management. This is an entry-level, fulltime position. Some training is provided.
Key Responsibilities
• Install, maintain, and monitor plantings.
• Install and maintain irrigation systems.
• Operate power tools such as brush cutters, mowers, string trimmers, chainsaws, and wood chippers.
• Manage restored and preserved areas (mowing, weeding).
• Drive company vehicles to and from work sites; including the use of 4-wheel drive trucks, trailers, and ATVs.
• Control invasive species through manual and mechanical techniques, occasional supervised use of herbicides.
• Maintain tools and equipment.
• Conduct plant surveys and monitoring.
• Collect and manage project data.
• Remove debris and trash associated with restoration projects.
• Facilitate volunteer workdays, including pick-up of refreshments, setup, check-in, etc.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to perform physical tasks and field labor (e.g., mowing, digging, weed-whacking, etc.), walk over rough terrain, and lift 70 lbs.
• Comfortable working in variable weather conditions, with the potential to encounter poisonous plants and stinging and biting insects.
• Requires capacity to navigate a two-story building via stairs.
• This job’s specific vision abilities include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus; ability to see and respond to dangerous situations.
• The noise level in the work environment ranges from quiet to loud, depending on equipment use. Required Qualifications
• A Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Environmental Science, Natural Resources Management, or closely related fields; or Associates degree plus two or more years of related work experience.
• Basic understanding of ecological principles.
• Ability to work independently, as well as maintain a positive working relationship with other team members.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow directions and implement procedures.
• Class C Driver’s License, with a clean record.
• Reliable transportation to and from the Laguna Environmental Center and job sites during scheduled workdays.
Desired Qualifications
• Proficiency in the safe driving of full-sized work trucks and hauling trailers.
• Basic mechanical knowledge; confidence operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing equipment and tools in the field.
• Knowledge of California fauna, flora, and ecosystems.
• Proficient computer skills using Microsoft Office applications and Google Workspace.
• A demonstrated desire and passion to work in biological sciences, and an understanding and commitment to the Laguna Foundation’s mission.
Compensation
$20.00 per hour. This is a full-time (40 hours per week) position with a competitive benefits package that includes employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance including up to 90% employer paid premium; accrued vacation, sick time, 14 paid holidays, 2 personal days; and participation in a 403(b) retirement plan.
Schedule
The schedule is generally Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM, with occasional weekends. Daily work schedules may vary with seasons and job site factors.
***********************
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed by people assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The Laguna Foundation management reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs, as necessary.
The Laguna Foundation is an Equal Opportunity employer. Personnel are chosen based on ability without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation, in accordance with federal and state law.
This position description does not constitute an employment agreement between the Laguna Foundation and the employee and is subject to change by the Laguna Foundation as the needs of the Laguna Foundation and requirements of the job change.