Preserve Technician

Position: Preserve Technician

Reports to: Preserve Manager

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill (SVPH) is on a mission to inspire generations through DISCOVERY, by sharing the legacies of the Kentucky Shakers. SVPH is committed to bridging historic preservation, land conservation, engaged learning and warm hospitality to present an unrivaled destination experience.

Home to the third largest Shaker community in the United States from 1805 until 1910, SVPH manages the country's largest private collection of original 19th century buildings and is the largest National Historic Landmark in Kentucky. Onsite amenities include overnight accommodations, dining and catering services, retail shops, event and meeting venues, historical exhibitions and tours, farm and garden area, nature preserve, multi-use trail system, equestrian stable and an extensive calendar of special programs, activities and events.

The Preserve Department

The Preserve supports the mission of Shaker Village by demonstrating the thoughtful stewardship of our land and natural resources and by providing a setting for guests to enjoy meaningful recreational opportunities throughout the property.

Position Summary

Preserve Technicians, with oversight from the Preserve Manager, are tasked with the care and maintenance of SVPH's 30+ mile trail system, including mowing, maintaining signage, clearing storm damage and making improvements to trail's structural integrity. In addition, technicians assist with invasive species management, protection of rare, threatened and endangered species, wildlife monitoring projects and other special events as needed.

Successful applicants have experience with tractors, hand tools and outdoor manual labor. Experience with trail building and maintenance preferred. Must have excellent communication skills, problem solving skills and a positive and friendly attitude. This position is integral to maintaining the integrity, health, and high standard of excellence of the Preserve and a positive guest experience.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assure visitor safety by maintaining accurate trail signage and regularly trimming vegetation to maintain sign visibility.
• Regularly clean, maintain and trim vegetation around trail user facilities including the bird blind, observation deck, benches and picnic tables.
• Clear encroaching vegetation from the trail system and trim trees to maintain sightlines along the trail system
• Plan and implement changes to trail routes and surfaces to improve grade and drainage
• Safely and responsibly uses chainsaws, hand tools and/or large equipment to clear downed trees, storm damage and other hazards from the trail system
• Perform manual and chemical invasive species management with hand tools, power tools, UTVs and tractors.
• Assist with research and wildlife surveys as needed
• Other duties as assigned

Standards of Performance:

• Maintain best practices for wildlife, habitat and trail maintenance
• Pleasant, friendly manner towards guests and colleagues, patience to share information with public and respond to their needs
• Must be adaptable to a fluid work environment - able to work alone and as part of a team.
• Must possess a valid Pesticide Applicator License with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture or acquire one within first 90 days of employment.
• Ability to work safely, efficiently and independently with a variety of tools and equipment, including chainsaws and tractors
• Punctual, responsible and presentable to cover duties as assigned

Physical Requirements:

• Must be capable of standing and walking for long periods on uneven terrain
• Must be capable of lifting 50 pounds
• Must have excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
• Regularly exposed to hot, cold and humid conditions
• Regularly exposed to potentially hazardous natural conditions including toxic plants, venomous animals and harsh sun

Qualifications:

• A degree in natural resource management, recreation or related field preferred. Relevant work experience can be substituted for educational experience.
• Experience in trail construction and maintenance preferred
• Able to pass a criminal background and reference check
• Must hold a valid driver's license
• This position requires working a flexible schedule, including weekdays, weekends and some evenings.