Black Swamp Conservancy is a land trust dedicated to protecting natural areas and family farms to preserve the rural heritage, unique natural habitats, and lakes and streams of northwest Ohio. The Conservancy protects over 20,000 acres and oversees the management of 1,500 acres spread across 15 nature preserves in northwest Ohio.
To meet our commitment to steward the mature and recently restored habitats in our 15 nature preserves, the Conservancy is seeking a Stewardship Cohort leader to oversee our seasonal Stewardship Cohort members and aid in actualizing the Conservancy’s conservation goals within these habitats. The selected member will gain skills in leadership, land management, native plant community identification and monitoring, invasive plant identification, Integrated Pest Management, small engine and tractor use and maintenance, and more.
Schedule
The selected member will serve a total of 1700 hours from August 25th 2025 through August 19th 2026. Member’s schedule is a mixture of 3 to 4 days a week, 10 hours a day, including travel time to field sites. This position requires attendance for one Saturday service day a month. Hours per week may fluctuate, increase or decrease, in consideration of seasonal changes such as inclement weather or other extended activities.
Job Description & Duties
Duties include invasive plant control, native habitat restoration, and basic preserve maintenance. During the summer season, this position will work closely with a team of 6 cohort members, supporting and guiding them through their service experience. They will serve alongside the cohort members on a regular basis, providing resources and assistance to help them navigate their service and cohort experience. The selected applicant will independently supervise a crew of 3-4 individuals at least one day per week during the summer season, ensuring that all tasks are performed safely and in accordance with established protocols. Additionally, cohort leaders will be responsible for fostering a safe and productive work environment that will help team members grow and succeed.
Job Duties Include:
- Inspire and serve as a role model and guide cohort members through effective leadership, communication, and individual/team support.
Invasive Plant Control, using mechanical methods (cut, pull, etc.) and herbicides.
Native habitat restoration – planting trees, plants or seeds, and caring for trees and shrubs.
Basic Preserve maintenance – trash & litter, parking lot & trail maintenance, installing signs.
Biological monitoring of plant and animal communities at restored sites.
Complete monthly activity reports, required timesheets and periodic reports through OnCorps online system and email.
Attend required AORC and BSC meetings and events.
Other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- Curiosity and a love of the outdoors
- Ability to collaborate as a team to accomplish tasks
- Availability to serve flexible hours, including the occasional Saturday
- Valid Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record
- Past experience in leadership
Preferred Experience
- Invasive species identification & control
- Hand tools
- Identifying/monitoring local plant and wildlife
- Using GPS units to mark field locations
Physical Requirements
- Tolerate extreme temperatures (especially heat) for 6-10 hours per day
- Comply with requirements for personal protective equipment
- Serve in an outdoor environment, including tolerance for exposure to insects and thorns
- Repetitively lift and carry items up to 40lbs
- Stand, sit, bend, kneel, stretch and squat for long periods while using best practices to maintain strong, long-term personal health
Compensation
- 52 weeks total commitment
- $24,633 total stipend
- $7,395 Segal Education Award
- This award may be used to repay qualified student loans and to pay current education expenses at eligible institutions.
- $1,400 in mileage, training, and equipment
- The Conservancy will provide basic PPE, these funds can be used for boots, work clothes, etc.
To Apply
Email your resume and cover letter to Land Steward Scarlet Rice at steward@blackswamp.org.
Applications due August 1st, but applications submitted by July 13th will be given priority. Interviews will begin July 14th.
Why Join Our Team?
Joining the Black Swamp Conservancy offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the conservation efforts of our region while gaining valuable skills and experiences.
As a member of our team, you will serve alongside passionate individuals dedicated to preserving our natural heritage. In addition to hands-on experience in land management, native plant conservation, and habitat restoration, you will also have the chance to participate in training and conferences to increase your knowledge and expand your career networking opportunities.
If you’re interested in hearing from our past Stewardship Leader, check out our article here.
