Ecological Land Manager

Job Title: Ecological Land ManagerReports to: On-site Property Manager; Managing Director of Operations and PropertiesLocation: Garrison, NY and New York, NYJob SummaryThe Ecological Land Manager (ELM) is a multifaceted role that combines expertise in eco-land management, forestry, and horticulture to oversee the stewardship, restoration, and maintenance of a 160+ acre ecological preserve with both public and private land areas in Garrison, NY.The ELM brings expertise to the property management team, leading and participating in the development of new projects, restoration, health and ongoing maintenance of all ecological and land management practices to ensure the long-term health and resilience of the local ecosystems, which includes identifying and addressing invasive species, pathogens, and environmental challenges while developing and implementing plans to protect native plant and wildlife habitats.In this role, the ELM leads landscape restoration efforts, manages irrigation systems and advances biodiversity initiatives. The ELM also oversees the maintenance and improvement of key areas like entrances, roadsides, and parking lots, along with trail management, ongoing landscaping and animal control needs.Working closely alongside an Assistant ELM and a Gardener, the Ecological Land Manager reports to the on-site Property Manager as well as the Managing Director of Operations and Properties, and also works in close coordination with the property owner. The ELM is a critical team leader, partner and advisor. In addition to the Garrison property, the ELM will also have input into the maintenance and management of an 8,000 sq. ft. NYC rooftop garden.The ELM is passionate about flora, fauna, and ecological management and preservation. They are hands-on, professional, proactive, and reliable while upholding the utmost respect for boundaries, privacy, and confidentiality always. A critical member of the Garrison property team, the ELM helps to ensure the Principal's overall vision for the estate is realized.Responsibilities include but are not limited to:Develop mapping of the property to become intimately knowledgeable of the entire preserve including the residential envelopesIdentify invasive species problem areas as well as disease and insect infestations. Lead all restorative effortsMonitor for, coordinate, and participate in the removal of invasive species that may impact the natural environmentPlan and lead efforts to increase flora/fauna biodiversity and climate change resilience on the propertyOversee major projects which may include brook restoration, marsh restoration, bird viewing decks, new trails, and visitor informational areaPlan, document, lead and implement landscape restoration efforts and landscape maintenance work, including management of all trails on the propertyUnderstand environmental health issues pertaining to the landscape, i.e. assuring safe, timely and appropriate use of herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizersUnderstand and manage irrigation needsManagement of landscapes around the houses and other structures in the residential envelopes and areas adjacent to other developed areas like roadsides, entrances, parking lots, and other miscellaneous areas that need maintenance, improvement, and ongoing careManagement of greenhouse and vegetable garden Document, encourage and protect native fungi throughout the propertyWork closely with vendors and subcontractors to maintain the property at the highest standardsInvestigate, plan, procure and establish new native plant communitiesMeadow development; Introduce new native plants from seed and plug to increase biodiversityOversee landscaping and grounds which includes weeding, trimming, watering, pruning, planting, shoveling, sawing, sweeping, raking, and other activities as neededAdequately document ongoing site work and develop practical maintenance protocols and procedure manualsOversee inspections, quality control, scheduling of periodic work, and inventory controlCreate and ensure Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems are in-place and effectiveEnsure all landscape and garden equipment is well maintained and servicedLiaise with expert consultantsPrepare the grounds for seasonal / inclement weatherCross-Office Collaboration:Communicate and coordinate with the principals and other staffBuild strong collaborative relationships with onsite property management team and the administrative team to carry out responsibilitiesCreate and maintain budgets in collaboration with the Finance departmentLiaise with Finance on all budget management and invoicesQualifications:A degree (bachelors or associates) in the fields of environmental sciences, eco-land management, or horticultureA minimum of 10 years of proven, confirmable experience working in the fields of landscape maintenance, landscape installation, landscape nursery or horticulture. Substantial (5+ years) and documented real world field experience is valued just as strongly as a degreeDeep respect and knowledge of ecological principles, the native landscape, and strong appetite to know more.In depth knowledge of planting with strong familiarity of the local flora and its plant communities; both native and invasive plant ID - trees down to herbaceous plants.In depth knowledge of IPM programsExperience with GIS mappingExperience operating heavy machinery: tractors, skid steers, and other large equipmentSkilled and competent with a chainsawStrong planning skills from concept development to implementation and project outcome assessmentA friendly and positive attitude, and a "can-do" teamwork-oriented personalityStrong time management and attention to detail are mandatoryProven and documented experience working with (Zones 6 through 7) plant material, including shrubs, perennials, and treesCommitment to the organic removal of invasive species (no herbicide/pesticide), and an overall holistic approach to habitat restorationHighly organized and detail oriented with exceptional commitment and dedication to daily responsibilitiesProactive attitude and approaches problems with a sense of possibilityExceptional communication skills including, but not limited to, speaking, interpersonal, and written correspondenceCourteous, extremely discreet, honest, non-obtrusive, and exhibits a responsible characterAbility to frequently reach, bend, kneel, and crouch for extended periods of timeThe ability to lift or move heavy items (30-50 lbs.)Ability to work in all weather and temperature conditions including heat, humidity, cold, damp, and freezing temperaturesAll Family properties are smoke-free environmentsAbility to travel to New York City as neededLegally eligible to work in the United States at time of hireCompensation package includes base salary, plus medical insurance, PTO, and generous 401(k) match.

Created: 2025-01-31