Story County - Conservation Aide - Ames, IA

Summary Description

Multiple positions are available for the summer of 2026. These positions will offer opportunities in to gain knowledge and experience in natural resource management, plant identification, equipment operation, and and park facility/grounds maintenance. These positions start May 18, 2026 and end approximately August 21, 2026. Extended employment opportunities may be available for qualified candidates. Positions are based at McFarland Park in Ames or at Hickory Grove Park in Colo.

Hours will average 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday and may include some weekends and holidays.

Duties will include mowing, string trimming, chainsaw operation, litter control, general carpentry, trail maintenance, prairie and forest restoration, and invasive species removal.

Conservation aides will report/repair safety hazards; offer assistance and information to the public; assist staff with area monitoring; maintain working relationships with other employees and the public; attend mandatory safety training and staff meetings; and perform related tasks as assigned. Work will involve operation of UTVs, mowers/trimmers, chainsaws, trucks/trailers, tractors, and power tools.

• Park Operations:
  McFarland Park and Hickory Grove Park: park management and maintenance
• Natural Resource:
  Hickory Grove Park: natural resource management and restoration

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and have a current, valid driver's license. Must have ability to obtain a pesticide applicator's certification within the first month of employment.

Employees will undergo post-offer, pre-employment background checks and drug screening.

Mandatory safety training is scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026.

General knowledge of the common practices, tools, terminology and safety precautions of building, park and equipment maintenance; knowledge of the use and characteristics of common building and park equipment and tools including but not limited to trucks, tractors, mowers, brush chippers, chain saws, firefighting equipment, and power tools; ability to operate standard office equipment and related hardware and software; ability to learn specialized software related to department needs;

ability to learn specialized equipment related to business needs; ability to follow oral and written instructions; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff and the general public.

A cover letter and resume must accompany the online application.

Submit online application with resume and cover letter