Conservation Field Technician in Houston, Texas at Memorial Park Conservancy Inc

Position Summary

The Conservation Technician supports the stewardship, restoration, and enhancement of Memorial Park’s native habitats through field-based land management and horticulture practices. This role performs native habitat maintenance and plant establishment activities that contribute to the health and diversity of grasslands, forests, and formal native landscape areas.

This role reports to the Conservation Supervisor and works directly under the daily direction of Conservation Coordinators.

• Work Location: On-site at Memorial Park
• Schedule: Monday–Friday at 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM; occasional evenings and weekends required based on operational needs (seasonal adjustments may apply)
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
• Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid time off; short- and long-term disability; and 401(k) retirement plan. Part-time employees are not eligible for benefits.

Key Responsibilities

Conservation Operations

• Perform field stewardship practices including mechanical and chemical vegetation management, planting, seeding, mulching, and integrated pest management.
• Assist with enhancement and restoration of native habitats including grasslands, forests, rain gardens, and formal native landscape beds.
• Operate conservation tools, power equipment, and park vehicles required to perform assigned tasks.
• Support field-based inspections and monitoring of native habitats and restoration areas to assess vegetation health, invasive species presence, and overall ecosystem condition.
• Maintain strong situational awareness in the field by monitoring site conditions and proactively identifying and reporting issues such as invasive species presence, habitat degradation, erosion, irrigation deficiencies, or safety hazards to support ongoing habitat management and restoration efforts.
• Document maintenance and monitoring activities using established work order and tracking systems.
• Assist with general park operations support tasks including debris removal, material handling, and worksite cleanup as directed.

Team Support & Communication

• Work collaboratively to complete assigned daily and seasonal tasks.
• Follow direction from Coordinators and Supervisor to ensure efficient workflow.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors regarding progress, challenges, and field conditions.
• Support volunteer activities and special events as needed.

Safety & Operational Standards

• Interact with park visitors in a courteous and professional manner.
• Comply with safety policies and use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Operate tools, equipment, and vehicles safely in accordance with established procedures and industry standards.
• Maintain assigned tools and equipment in safe working conditions.

Minimum Qualifications

• One (1) or more years of professional experience in conservation, ecological restoration, native habitat management, horticulture, or related field preferred.
• Working knowledge of native habitat stewardship practices including site preparation, planting and seeding, mulching, and pest management.
• Experience safely operating hand tools and power equipment; heavy equipment and chainsaw experience preferred.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and follow directions.
• Basic proficiency with email and digital communication tools.
• Valid Texas driver’s license.

Preferred Certifications

• N/A

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Capacity to bend, kneel, crouch, climb, and stand for extended periods.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds on a repetitive basis.
• Safely operate motorized vehicles and power equipment.
• Work safely in high-traffic public environments.
• Perform work at heights following required safety training.

Safety Expectations

All employees share responsibility for maintaining a safe work environment. Staff must follow established safety procedures, use required personal protective equipment (PPE), exercise caution in all work activities, and immediately report hazards, unsafe conditions, or injuries to supervisors.

Disclaimer

This job description outlines the general nature and scope of work for this position. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed to support Memorial Park Conservancy’s mission and operations.

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