Restoration Ecology Student Position

Are you looking for field experience in habitat restoration and ecological management? The University of Wisconsin-Parkside is hiring. This paid position will provide an opportunity to learn tools and techniques of native habitat management, plant identification, and principles of restoration ecology while helping restore on campus prairie, savanna, and woodland habitats. Students, including seniors graduating in May 2025, of any field of study are encouraged to apply. Please highlight any relevant work experience, volunteer activities, and/or academic training in natural resources management or habitat restoration in your application. 

Successful candidates should have the ability to work with others and an interest in working in the field of natural resource management, as well as an enthusiasm for environmental stewardship. Excellent communication skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to work in adverse weather and dynamic systems are required. 

Job duties include: 

Seed collection, plant propagation, biological monitoring, and general landscape restoration and maintenance activities, particularly invasive species control. Use of hand tools, some power tools and herbicide required. Tasks involve outdoor work in multiple habitats and in all weather conditions.

Job-specific tasks could include, but are not limited to:

• Preparing planting beds through removing turfgrass, digging up roots, spreading topsoil
• Planting various plants in wetlands, prairies, or gardens - including vegetables and native species
• Being around insects, including bees, ticks, ants, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Watering plants
• Harvesting seeds from native plants
• Assist in maintaining campus garden: weeding, watering, mowing, and pest control
• Propagating native plants or vegetables indoors and outside
• Harvesting produce from the community garden
• Turning compost
• Applying herbicides with proper protective equipment and training

Other job requirements: 

Work will occur on the main campus. Sturdy work boots and field clothing are required. All tools will be provided. Selected applicants will be required to submit a driver authorization with the university. Selected candidate will be responsible for travel, housing, and other living expenses for the duration of the position.

Qualifications:

    • Be 18 years of age

    • Have a valid driver’s license 

    • Have completed the first year of college or have equivalent experience

    • Be willing to work in all types of weather conditions

    • Be able to help with heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs)

    • Have the ability and willingness to work in a team environment

    • Have a passion for the outdoors

    • Must be enrolled with at least 6 credit hours

Anticipated Hours Per Week: 

10-12, approximately 3-5 hours per day 2-3 times per week

Schedule:

To be mutually agreed on based upon project needs and student availability

High Impact Practice Statement: By incorporating classroom learning into hands-on work experience as well as providing supervision and coaching, students gain necessary tools to grow and contribute as professionals.

If interested, please upload your resume and cover letter including previous experience and why you are interested in this position to Handshake. This position can be used to receive course credit if desired. Please contact Emily Reed with questions - reede@uwp.edu