Ordway-Swisher Biological Station Is Looking For Work Campers In Florida

OVERVIEW:

The Ordway-Swisher Biological Station (OSBS) is a year-round field station established for the long-term study and conservation of unique ecosystems through management, research, and education. The Station is 9,500 acres and is located approximately 20 miles east of Gainesville in Melrose (Putnam County, Florida). Due to the sensitivity of the work conducted on-site, the facility is not open to the public.

DUTIES:

Work campers are an important component of the station’s conservation, and research, and education operations. The Ordway-Swisher Biological Station provides many opportunities to apply your skills as well as develop new ones. The successful volunteer will perform a wide variety of important jobs for the station’s operation and maintenance. These tasks may include:

• Landscaping & mowing of facilities
• Trail and road trimming and clearing
• Basic carpentry repair
• Housekeeping of station’s lodging facilities
• Removal of trash
• Mowing of roads with tractors (This may be considered if individual can demonstrate knowledge and safe operation of equipment and watch tractor safety video).
• Assist in the removal of exotic-invasive plant species
• Fence repair and maintenance
• Assistance providing station security may also be considered. These tasks will be at the discretion of the volunteer supervisor.

REQUIRMENTS:

This position requires the utilization of tools such as: rakes, shovels, loppers, machetes, pole saws, brush cutters, and power tools. This work requires physical exertion and/or muscular strain, frequent overhead lifting, bending and dragging of debris. Volunteers will utilize a Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) to travel the roads while working. Individuals interested in this work must demonstrate good physical fitness.

VOLUNTEER SCHEDULE:

• 3 month minimum commitment
• 16 hours per week/ per person (32 hours/couple) are required to be considered for this position.
• 24 hours per week/ per person are required in the event multiple people are in your party but only one is working.

SUPERVISOR: Land Manager

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Successful background screening may be required
• Work well with others and follow directions
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
• Demonstrate the ability to operate equipment safely
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving record
• Demonstrate the safe operation of a Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTVs)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with safe operation of landscaping equipment
• Experience in effective tree pruning techniques
• Experience with tractor mowing
• Basic knowledge of small engine principles and operation
• Familiarity with southeastern US Flora and Fauna

COMPENSATION:

• Full hookup RV site
• Laundry Facility
• Scenic location in a beautiful Longleaf Pine forest

EQUIPMENT PROVIDED:

• 4×4 UTV
• Staff Shirts
• Staff hats
• All necessary tools and training
• Personal protective equipment

Website: https://ordway-swisher.ufl.edu/
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