Environmental Restoration Technician

ABOUT TROUT UNLIMITED INC.

Trout Unlimited Inc. is a prominent national organization dedicated to the conservation and restoration of North America's cold-water fisheries and their ecosystems. With a vast network of over 400 chapters and councils, we are supported by a committed community of 300,000 members and advocates, alongside a skilled team of professionals including organizers, legal experts, policy advisors, and scientists.

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and driven individuals for seasonal roles within our West Virginia operations. This entry-level technician position offers flexible start and end dates, with a maximum engagement period of 6 months or 1,000 hours. Successful candidates will gain valuable training and hands-on experience in various conservation practices, including agricultural exclusion fencing, alternative watering systems, and riparian tree planting. Additional field training will encompass stream habitat enhancement, invasive species management, heavy equipment operation, and various ecological surveys. All fieldwork will adhere to established health protocols.

This role will involve travel across West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland, with overnight stays required. Crews typically operate on a Monday to Thursday schedule, working 4-10 hour shifts.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Efficiently organize materials and tools for assigned tasks.
• Construct habitat restoration projects in collaboration with TU's partners.
• Engage in high tensile fencing and habitat restoration while strictly following safety protocols.
• Assist with the installation of pipelines and water troughs.
• Support stream crossing installations and riparian plantings.
• Document completed work through detailed reporting.
• Represent Trout Unlimited positively while on-site and during travel.
• In the absence of the crew leader, guide other crew members and manage material transport and equipment usage to ensure project efficiency.

This list of responsibilities is not exhaustive and may evolve as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Basic understanding of conservation techniques and best practices in agricultural contexts.
• Familiarity with high tensile fence construction methods.
• Knowledge of fundamental construction practices.
• Ability to operate farm machinery, including tractors and skid loaders.
• Competence in driving motorized vehicles, including trucks up to 20,000 lbs. and towing trailers.
• Willingness to obtain necessary licenses and permits for machinery operation.
• Must pass a background check.

Preferred candidates may possess one or more of the following:

• Experience in fence construction.
• Understanding of plumbing systems and watering troughs.
• Experience operating heavy equipment.
• Background in towing trailers with equipment.
• Commercial Driver's License.
• First Aid/CPR certification.
• Experience working collaboratively in team settings.