Grounds and Maintenance Assistant

About Audubon 

The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with more than 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, nonpartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With over 900 staff and more than 2.65 million supporters working across 11 countries and all 50 U.S. states, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at audubon.org and on Facebook and Instagram @audubonsociety. 

Position Summary:

The John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove is looking for a dedicated, and reliable addition to our Grounds and Maintenance team to help maintain the 220-acre property, including gardens and trails. The Assistant would also help with minor building repair projects. The Grounds and Maintenance Assistant reports to the Manager, Center Operations, and supports the Coordinator of Grounds and Maintenance.

Tasks include basic maintenance and some minor repair of buildings and equipment, and grounds and trails ensuring accessible and safe experiences for the visiting public.

This is a part-time, year-round position for up to 24 hours per week. Schedules will vary depending on events and seasonal maintenance schedules. The Assistant might be called upon to work during some weekends as emergencies and seasonal priorities arise, such as snow removal or downed trees due to storms.

Compensation:

$19.57 – $22.00 / hour

Essential Functions:

• Work with Grounds Coordinator to maintain grounds, buildings, equipment, signage boats, and vehicles.
• Create clean, safe and pleasant environment for visitors, event guests to explore the site through proper and proactive maintenance of the grounds, vehicles and equipment.
• Operate and supervise operation of equipment required to maintain grass, meadows, forests and trails. In addition, plow snow, treat surfaces for ice, trim trees and perform routine maintenance of equipment and/or arrange for necessary professional services.
• Maintain grounds and native habitats for the benefit of birds and people; recommend practices and projects to create optimal habitats.
• Prepare for storms to protect property assets and conduct cleanup/repairs following storm impact.
• Assist with supervision and safety of volunteer groups participating in habitat stewardship activities (weeding, trail maintenance, conservation projects, etc.).
• Participate in Audubon and Audubon Mid-Atlantic all-staff calls and staff working groups,
• Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint planning and execution of  shared priorities.
• Maintains and fosters culture of safety.
• Other duties, including manual labor tasks, as required.
• Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience:

• High school diploma, vocational school certificate or equivalent a plus. Two years of land management experience preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Basic knowledge of habitat management and bird and plant identification.

• Must pass background check.
• Driver’s license with reliable transport required.
• Ability to maintain, operate and maintain hand and gasoline-operated tools.
• Experience with basic trades including plumbing, carpentry and electrical.
• Experience interacting with the public in a fast-paced environment; ability to remain composed under pressure; experience working at a museum, historic site, or other sensitive properties highly desirable.
• Ability to effectively coordinate with other staff and interact positively with visitors to the Center and others in the community.
• Ability to work as part of a team as well as alone.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying conditions & terrain, with or without accommodation.
• Ability to safely traverse wet or unstable environments and transport up to 50 pounds, with or without accommodation.
• Willingness to work weekends and evenings as needed.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Outlook and Word.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and professional work ethic; be punctual and reliable.

• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

This position is represented by the Communication Workers of America (CWA) 

National Audubon Society Competencies: This role will also be accountable to apply and develop the following competencies.

Building Relationships: Establish and nurture meaningful connections and trust with others while fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect.  

Problem Solving: Find effective solutions to challenges and support decision-making by drawing on critical thinking, creativity, and systematic approaches.  

Accountability: Be reliable and trustworthy in fulfilling commitments while recognizing inequities that may impact the ability of others to fulfill responsibilities effectively.  

Supporting Change: Adapt to changes and modify behavior in response to new information or unexpected obstacles while considering the diverse needs of others.  

Critical Thinking: Take an active approach to analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting information or situations objectively and logically to make informed decisions or judgments.  

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.

Accessibility Statement

The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users.  If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact [email protected]. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.