Want to work at TNI? Check out our open seasonal positions below.

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Application Deadline: April 30th, 2026, or when filled  

Employment Dates: April 2026 – November 2026

Time Requirement: 25 hours/ week – some variation of work schedule each week based on weather conditions

Compensation: $19/hr

The Nature Institute is a private non-profit conservation organization that fosters an awareness and appreciation for the natural world through preservation, restoration, and education.  The Nature Institute manages nearly 500 acres along the Mississippi River bluffs in Godfrey, IL.  This property includes a variety of natural communities protecting a diverse population of plants and animals.  

Position Description:

This seasonal Land Steward performs duties related to the upkeep and restoration of the Olin Nature Preserve Woodlands in concordance with the Natural Areas Stewardship Grant received by TNI. This grant position prioritizes work on 117 acres of Oak and Hickory woodlands with a focus on enhancing habitat for our native wildlife. Duties include, but are not limited to, herbicide application, tree removal, plant identification, planting, seed collection, and assisting with controlled burns. This position reports to and works closely with the Director of Stewardship and will follow policies set forth by the Board of Directors and the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. This position will require occasional variable hours, dependent on weather conditions.

This is an ideal opportunity for a college student interested in ecology and land restoration. Some background in native restoration is preferred.

Experience:

  • Hands-on plant identification, small tool/equipment operation, experience with a chainsaw, and exposure to ecological restoration activities
  • Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions
  • Strong oral communication skills
  • Enthusiasm, strong work ethic, courteous and positive attitude, team player mentality
  • Participation in controlled burns a plus
  • Must be 18 or older

Essential Duties:

  • Operate chainsaws and other small power tools, including mowers, brush cutters, hedge trimmers, weed whackers, and water pumps, 
  • Effectively use and care for herbicide sprayers, backpack water tanks, and hand tools
  • Execute habitat management and habitat project plans under the supervision of the Director of Stewardship.  Tasks include cutting trees and invasive woody species, spraying herbicide, and prescribed burning.  The Illinois Nature Preserves Commission guidelines will be used as a guide to perform habitat management tasks
  • Assist the Director of Stewardship with supervising volunteers
  • Maintain tools and equipment for daily use
  • Maintain, repair, and improve trails.  Tasks include clearing downed trees and limbs, removing trash, and other tasks as they arise
  • Collect, clean, and disperse native seed
  • Prepare burn breaks and participate in prescribed burns
  • Follow safe working practices and make appropriate use of related safety equipment, as required

The above list of essential duties is not exhaustive. The seasonal land steward will be expected to perform other tasks not on the list as they arise.

Apply below!

Seasonal Land Steward Application

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The Nature Institute is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. The Nature Institute makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.