JOB SUMMARY: The typical seasonal entry-on-duty period for Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is April-May, but can be variable during these months due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty: April 2025 Open to the first 50 applicants or until 01/17/2025 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration. MAJOR DUTIES: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is located in the Flint Hills of Chase County, just north of Strong City, Kansas. Administrative offices are located adjacent to the Preserve Visitor Center, about two miles north of Strong City, Kansas. Chase County is rural and lightly populated. Major groceries, medical and dental services are located in Emporia, Kansas (20 miles distant). Public schools are located in Cottonwood Falls and Strong City; a state university is located in Emporia. Climate is considered moderate, with average precipitation of over 30", summer high temperatures 80-100° F, winter low temperatures 10-20° F. NO PARK HOUSING IS AVAILABLE. Rentals and houses for sale are limited in Chase County but plentiful in Emporia. Work individually and with others to coordinate range management activities on native and disturbed lands on the preserve. Invasive plant management includes following the National Park Services guidelines for Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM work will be coordinated with other park staff, and the Exotic Plant Management Team. Document native and non-native plant species and locations, identifying best treatment methods based on species and location, documenting chemical and mechanical plant treatments using GPS, GIS and database equipment for use in compiling an annual report. Utilize a variety of equipment including chainsaws, spray equipment, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), UTV's, and 4x4 vehicles. Observe natural and range resource conditions, collect, record, and analyze data, prepare reports, and identify common wildlife and vegetation and provide this information to park staff and assist with citizen science events. Physical Demands: The work ranges from sedentary when completing duties in the office to frequent field work requiring a considerable amount of walking, riding, stooping, bending, and lifting. Working Conditions: Office work is performed in adequately lighted, heated, and air-conditioned offices. Much of the time is spent in the field where exposure to extremes of heat and cold, rough terrain, insects, snakes, and other hazards are common. The incumbent carefully adheres to all safety procedures to mitigate hazards encountered. IMPORTANT: Click the 'Apply for this job' button to view a complete job description.
