Seasonal Land Stewardship Technician

Hiring Organization: Oakland Township Parks and Recreation
Employment type: Seasonal
Job Location: Oakland Township, MI
Application Due Date: February 13, 2026

Position Summary

The Seasonal Land Stewardship Technician position is a full-time, seasonal (up to 25 weeks/1000 hours, between April 9 and September 28). Duties include the management of the Township parks’ natural areas under the direction of the Natural Areas Stewardship Manager. Work tasks may include species monitoring, seed collecting, invasive species control, prescribed burning, and assisting with volunteer stewardship workdays. This position will require cooperation with staff, partner organizations, volunteers, and the general public. This position may be ideal for a candidate seeking an academic internship, experience in the natural resource management field, or continued education in stewardship and land management. It is the responsibility of the Stewardship Technician to make any and all arrangements with an accredited institution if an internship is desired.

Responsibilities

This position is approximately 90% field work (70% invasive species control, 5% native garden maintenance, 5% seed collecting, 10% monitoring) and 10% office/other (5% volunteer/outreach, 5% office work).

Implementing stewardship plans and activities as directed by the Natural Areas Stewardship Manager such as: invasive species control, fashioning burn breaks, assisting with prescribed fire activities, plant installation, seed collection/processing, native plant garden maintenance, and protecting wildlife of concern
Using GIS and GPS to map natural features within parks and create maps
Field data collection, documenting stewardship activities into specific formats
Assisting with natural features monitoring and inventory
Equipment repair and maintenance
Assist with and lead volunteer workdays and programs
Assist volunteers with monitoring activities
Communicate stewardship activities to the public in a positive manner
Other duties as assigned Qualifications
Bachelors in Science/Art degree in conservation biology, ecology, natural resources management, or related field, or working towards such degree.
Related experience with ecological restoration/land management including invasive species control, herbicide application, prescribed burning and seed processing preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of ecosystem restoration techniques, threats to natural areas, and the ecology/geology of southern Michigan.
Knowledge of the ecological role of fire and the techniques employed to implement prescribed fire in urban natural areas.
Ability to recognize Michigan plant and animal species as required in order to implement land management activities.
Ability to interpret and work with maps/plans oriented towards natural resources, land use, development, or engineering/construction
Ability to safely use and maintain land stewardship tools and equipment
Experience working as part of a team and with the public
Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, and GIS software
Willingness and ability to work flexible schedule including occasional evenings and weekends.
Ability to perform physical work, sometimes under adverse conditions or in inclement weather.

Special Requirements, Licenses, and Certifications:

Technicians must possess and present a valid Michigan driver’s license (or be willing to obtain one) and a satisfactory driving record. No felony convictions. Driving and criminal background checks will be completed.
Pre-placement physical exam at department’s expense will be required.
Must possess or be willing to obtain a Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License in Forestry, Aquatic, and Right-of-Way categories within 90 days of employment
Must possess or be willing to obtain Red Cross First Aid and CPR training
NWCG Wildland Firefighter Type II certification or equivalent a plus, but not necessary.

Physical Requirements:

Work requires the ability to operate a motor vehicle, to operate hand controls on equipment, the ability to distinguish colors and to hear audible alarms.
Incumbent may be exposed to hazardous physical conditions and poor atmospheric conditions. In addition, the work may require seasonal exposure to extreme weather conditions, including rain, humidity, intense heat and sunlight.
Ability to climb ladders, handle heavy brush, walk for extended periods, stand for long periods, perform routine moderate lifting and to carry up to 50 pounds over rough, uneven terrain and wet and slippery surfaces.
Ability to perform the essential functions of this position with our without reasonable accommodation.
Pre-placement physical exam at department’s expense will be required.

To Apply:

Submit cover letter, resume, and three professional references by February 13, 2026, or until the position is filled to bvanderweide@oaklandtwpmi.gov, with “Seasonal Land Stewardship Technician Application” in the subject line. For more information visit www.oaklandtwpmi.gov/parks-recreation, or contact Oakland Township Parks and Recreation at 248-651-7810. The Charter Township of Oakland is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply