Job Description
Job Description
About Mass Audubon
Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 160,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries. Explore, find inspiration, and take action at massaudubon.org.
About This Position
Mass Audubon is seeking a seasonal Property Steward to support ecological restoration and land stewardship projects along with the routine maintenance and upkeep of various properties in the Natick/Holliston area. This position will focus primarily on coordinating and working with volunteer groups on invasive plant removal, habitat restoration, and other ecological management initiatives. Additional responsibilities may include trail stewardship, monitoring restoration areas, and assisting sanctuary staff with general property stewardship tasks including but not limited to basic carpentry, custodial work, and landscape maintenance. The ideal candidate is enthusiastic about conservation, enjoys working outdoors, and is comfortable leading and engaging volunteers in hands-on environmental projects. Holding a current Massachusetts Pesticide applicators license will be very beneficial for this position.
Application Instructions
Please submit a resume and cover letter with your ADP application.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and lead volunteer groups in specific ecological restoration projects under the guidance of the Property Manager
- General stewardship of sanctuaries including trail maintenance, basic landscaping, and custodial work
- Maintain grounds and property by:
- mowing, raking, trimming, and pruning;
- constructing and maintaining trails, roadways, and parking areas;
- shoveling, sanding, and plowing snow;
- constructing and/or repairing fences, signs, boardwalks, and platforms;
- implementing the sanctuary’s ecological management objectives in coordination with the Senior Conservation Ecologist and the Property Manager;
- working on special projects, as needed, including responding to storm-related damage and/or the property management needs of other Mass Audubon sanctuaries.
- Maintain buildings and other structures by:
- painting;
- performing carpentry duties;
- cleaning gutters;
- winterizing buildings and systems;
- performing emergency repairs;
- assisting with minor plumbing, electrical, or mechanical repairs.
- Provide custodial and other facility related services such as:
- removing trash and debris and recycling materials;
- cleaning restrooms;
- general cleaning including washing and waxing floors, cleaning windows, vacuuming carpets, and maintaining nature center exhibits.
- setting up, moving, and dismantling equipment necessary for Mass Audubon educational programs in coordination with the sanctuary’s education staff;
- assisting with the property management needs of other sanctuaries as directed by the supervisor.
- Ensure the safe operation of all equipment. Keep equipment in working order by tuning, cleaning, sharpening, changing fluids, and scheduling needed service to equipment
- Provide efficient and courteous service to the public by offering information about the site to visitors and responding to other visitor service requests
Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:
Must Haves
- Excellent reliability and time management skills
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Ability to perform physical work, sometimes outdoors under adverse conditions
- Ability to walk over rough terrain for extended periods of time and lift and carry up to 40 lbs
- Strong communication skills and ability to interact with a wide variety of people, including staff, visitors, and volunteers
- Competency with basic forms of technology including email, internet, and Microsoft Office (primarily Microsoft Word and Excel)
- Ability to relate to a diverse range of people and exercise cultural competence and inclusion
- Reliable transportation
Nice to Haves
- Valid Massachusetts pesticide applicator license
- Carpentry skills, tractor experience, and chainsaw training
- First Aid certification
Compensation, Benefits and Perks
This position’s pay range is $19.00-$21.00 per hour; actual rate of pay will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements. This position may be eligible for benefits.
Work Schedule
This is a seasonal position that starts in August 2026 and ends in April 2027, 24 hours per week. Specific workdays will be determined by the Property Manager.
Other Requirements
Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.
Mass Audubon’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice
Mass Audubon embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are dedicated to forming a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. People of color are strongly encouraged to apply.
Mass Audubon’s mission is to “protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife” by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.