Restoration Fellowship
(2 position openings, part- or full-time)
Position overview: The Restoration Fellowship will support the implementation of ecological restoration projects aimed at restoring and enhancing riparian zones, natural habitats, and native ecosystems of the Illinois River. This fellowship program is for one (1) year with hiring preference for a full-time role within IRWP at the end of the successful fellowship. Each fellow will work with IRWP’s Restoration Specialist to:
Responsibilities:
· Plan, design, and implement ecological restoration projects focused on riparian areas, native habitats, and watershed ecosystems in collaboration with other staff and partners.
· Perform site assessments, create detailed restoration plans, and oversee implementation in accordance with ecological restoration best practices and program requirements.
· Conduct native plant selection, procurement, and oversee planting activities to achieve project goals.
· Coordinate with landowners, community stakeholders, and partner organizations on consultations and collaborative projects.
· Implement restoration projects based on established project timelines, budgets, and resources to meet program deliverables and reporting requirements.
· Support educational workshops, trainings, and community engagement events emphasizing restoration ecology, native plants, and watershed stewardship.
· Prepare summaries, presentations, fact sheets, stewardship stories, reports, videos, and photo content to communicate program impact to stakeholders.
· Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, volunteers, and external stakeholders on restoration initiatives, community plantings, and ecological monitoring.
· Regularly monitor, evaluate, and report on restoration project outcomes to ensure objectives are met and to inform adaptive management practices.
Qualifications:
· Minimum of Bachelor’s or Associates degree in relevant field with at least 1-2 years of relevant professional experience; with Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Horticulture, or related field preferred. Work experience will be considered in lieu of degrees.
· Demonstrated interest in ecological restoration techniques, water quality, plant ecology, native plant propagation, and native habitats of the Illinois River watershed.
· Knowledge of ecological best practices, plant identification, riparian restoration methodologies, and/or project construction management.
· Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities, with a strong aptitude for engaging with diverse community members and stakeholders.
· Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Compensation: Hourly rate of $17-$24 commensurate with experience. Competitive benefits package includes paid annual leave and flexible scheduling.
Location: This role is part- or full-time based at our beautiful NWA headquarters in Cave Springs in the heart of the NWA community. Regular travel required to project sites and community events within the region.
Application: Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume, expression of interest, and three professional references to leif@irwp.org.