Plant Conservation Technician

Monday - Friday; Some evenings and weekends. Occasional overnight travel.

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University's tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to cultivate connections between plants, people, and place through science, engagement, and conservation. As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, diversity in people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone's voice is heard, and everyone feels safe and welcome.

The Plant Conservation Technician(s) ( PCT) work with the Conservation Department at the North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG) to support and advance our efforts in restoration ecology. PCTs will gain hands on experience in field botany, plant identification, seed collection, propagation, and research. Specifically, working as part of the Conservation team, PCT will collect seed of wild and cultivated native plant species throughout NC, SC and VA, voucher specimens, and collect field data for all collections. Additionally, the PCT will clean and process seeds for storage, identify plants to species level, identify target populations for collection, maintain detailed records and file reports. The PCT will assist with the propagation and maintenance of containerized native plants and seed increase beds. Finally, PCT will assist in research projects on the restoration and conservation of rare plants. PCT will learn from highly qualified staff, network with plant conservation professionals, and participate in further educational opportunities. This opportunity is ideal for those seeking experience or careers in plant conservation, restoration ecology, botanical/ecological research and land management.
This position requires driving.

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of experience that demonstrates possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

-Knowledge: Professional Knowledge of specific area(s). Ability to keep current with developments and trends in area(s) of expertise.
-Design: Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of technical plans and models related to exhibiting, storing, and transporting specimens, artifacts, and collection items.
-Communication: Ability to present information to individuals or groups; ability to deliver presentations suited to the characteristics and needs of the audience. Ability to convey information clearly and concisely to groups or individuals either verbally or in writing to ensure that they can understand the information and the message. Ability to listen and respond appropriately to others.
-Clerical: Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
-Leading Work Teams: Ability to establish expectations and clear direction to meet goals and objectives of on-going work for a group of employees. Ability to motivate and engage employees through effective communication.

Bachelor's degree or higher in botany, plant ecology, biology, environmental science or related field.
-Knowledge of the southeastern flora and/or experience with dichotomous keys for plant identification.
-Experience working outdoors in stressful conditions.
-A valid driver's license.
-The ability to work with people of different backgrounds.
-High level of organizational skill, ability to self-motivate and work independently.
-Experience with Microsoft Office and iNaturalist.
-Seed collection and processing experience and/or familiarity with the Seeds of Success protocols.

Plant Conservation Technician(s) need the ability to safely lift or move up to 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodations and have the ability to work in adverse conditions (extreme temperatures, insect exposure, and poisonous plant exposure) out of doors for extended periods. Overnight work required. Some night and weekend work required.

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.