Aquatic Harvester Operator needed at the Chicago Botanic Garden!

Lake Cook Rd near Lake Cook Rd and Green Bay Rd, Glencoe IL

Description

The Chicago Botanic Garden is looking for an energetic, mechanically adept seasonal employee to operate our Aquatic Plant Harvester in summer 2022—and ideally in subsequent years. Located 25 miles north of downtown Chicago, the Garden's 385-acre campus includes 60 acres of lakes. Over the past 20 years, more than ½ million native aquatic and shoreline plants have been added along 4.5 miles of our lakeshore. To help maintain desirable submerged plant communities and overall lake aesthetics, routine trimming of excessive submerged vegetation growth and algal mats is conducted. The harvester equipment has underwater blades that cut submerged plant stems and then removes them from the lake via conveyor belts. When the on-board storage area for cut plant material has been filled, the harvester connects to a shore-based conveyor system that offloads the harvester’s cut plants into a dump truck; the cut plant material is then driven to the Garden’s landscape waste processing area where it is converted into mulch. Responsibilities In this role you will be responsible for the following: Operating and providing basic maintenance on the Garden’s aquatic plant harvester and conveyor equipment. Qualifications Our ideal candidate will have the following: Mechanical aptitude required, knowledge of diesel engine operation a plus Experience in towing and backing up a trailer Experience navigating boats on water required A strong work ethic and an ability to function independent of continuous supervision. A high comfort level being in and around water and an ability to swim should the need arise in an emergency. Employee must be comfortable operating diesel and gasoline engines Be a licensed driver with a clean driving record and insurable by the Garden The employment term for this position begins in mid- to late May and will likely continue through early-mid September. The normal work schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 pm, although flexibility in schedule and working hours is possible. Candidates with an interest and ability to work over a similar timeframe in subsequent years (i.e., beyond 2022) are strongly preferred. Physical Demands: Ability to sit for extended periods of time (i.e., while operating the harvester) Ability to board the harvester from the water, and bend to remove jammed plant material from the harvester and conveyor Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds, and must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions. How to Apply: Please send your resume through the email link by April 8.