Stewardship Crew Member

Stewardship Crew Member at KNC (Temporary: May 11 – August 28, 2026)

Schedule:

36 hours/week, Monday‑Thursday (9‑hour days)

Compensation: $16/hour

The Kalamazoo Nature Center (KNC) is hiring Stewardship Crew Members for the 2026 field season.

Let’s be clear: this is tough, physical work. You will spend full 9‑hour days outside in Michigan’s summer conditions — heat, humidity, uneven terrain, insects, mud, and the occasional downpour included. You’ll lift, haul, cut, spray, dig, and hike. You’ll go home tired.

But you’ll also go home knowing you did something real. You’ll see invasive species cleared, native plants thriving, and landscapes restored because of your effort. You’ll build skills, confidence, and resilience. And you’ll do it alongside a crew that works hard, supports each other, and keeps morale high — even on the long days.

KNC is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring people to discover, value, and care for nature. We believe diversity strengthens our work and are committed to building a team that reflects the community we serve and advances equity, inclusion, and belonging in conservation.

• Cutting and removing invasive woody shrubs and trees
• Managing invasive species using hand tools and mechanical equipment (brush cutters, backpack sprayers, etc.)
• Responsible herbicide application (training provided)
• Trail maintenance
• Native seed and plug planting
• Tree planting
• Assisting with biological surveys and prescribed fire (if opportunities arise)

This is a field‑based position performing labor in rugged terrain and remote areas. You will be outdoors up to 9 hours a day. Expect thick vegetation, stinging insects, ticks, poison ivy, and limited access to bathrooms.

If you enjoy physical work, being outside, and seeing tangible results at the end of the day, this role can be incredibly rewarding.

• Show up ready to work and contribute to the team
• Take safety seriously
• Communicate clearly and respectfully
• Can work both independently and alongside others
• Are willing to work with herbicides and obtain a State of Michigan Pesticide Applicator’s License
• Can lift at least 50 pounds repeatedly throughout a 9‑hour day
• Can stay motivated and focused during long, physically demanding days
• Support KNC’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity
• You must be able to pass a background check and meet U.S. Drug‑Free Workplace standards (required for certain grant‑funded activities)

• Natural areas management
• Plant identification and invasive species control
• Experience with power tools, brush cutters, or herbicide equipment
• Experience working outdoors in physically demanding roles

If you’re new to restoration work but bring a strong work ethic and willingness to learn, we encourage you to apply.

• Hands‑on experience in ecological restoration
• A State of Michigan Pesticide Applicator’s License that's good for three years
• Two days of Paid Time Off
• Free one‑year KNC household membership
• Free access to the Bronson Help Net Employee Assistance Program
• Three‑day weekends — every week
• A summer spent outdoors improving meaningful landscapes
• A crew culture built on teamwork, grit, and good humor
• You’ll finish the season stronger, more skilled, and with stories to tell
• This seasonal role has potential for extension through mid‑November

The Kalamazoo Nature Center values diversity and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type in accordance with federal, state, and local law.

If you’re ready for a summer that challenges you physically, connects you to the land, and surrounds you with a hardworking, high‑morale team — we’d love to hear from you.