New Position: Vesper Meadow Restoration Preserve Caretaker

 
 

New position:

We are looking for a Vesper Meadow Restoration Preserve Caretaker. This volunteer position plays a key role in managing the 950+ acre Vesper Meadow Restoration Preserve property and facilities, and includes additional opportunities to contract with the Vesper Meadow Education Program for restoration project planning and implementation.

Vesper Meadow Restoration Preserve is a 950+ acre preserve dedicated to biocultural restoration and home to the Vesper Meadow Education Program. It is located 30 minutes east of Ashland, Oregon within the Cascade-Siskiyou mountains of southwest Oregon. 

This volunteer position is a work-trade exchange for discounted rent and requires that the Caretaker(s)  live on-site full-time. The small comfortable home is a recently renovated 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, yet is off-grid and requires someone willing to work to maintain it (read further in position description). Discounted rent is $580/month plus utilities (wood and propane heating, Starlink internet).

The Caretaker(s) will also have opportunities for seasonal paid contract work (April - October, 5-15 hours/week, $25-$40/hr DOE) by VMEP for ecological restoration work or other program support assignments.

This position will be open until February 28th or until filled. We will begin to review applications on November 1st, 2025. The ideal candidate will be available to begin April 1st, 2026. 


The ideal candidate is an individual or a couple who:

  • Thrives working alone or in a small group

  • Has at least 3 years experience working as a rural lands caretaker, handy-person, carpenter, grounds keeper, or similar positions.

  • Interest and experience in ecological restoration is a plus!

  • Great communicator and team player 

  • Is organized and likes to document progress

Read full position description
 

Apply:

Please read the full position description, then provide the following information below, a cover letter, resume, and two references.

Position open until filled. Applications will be reviewed beginning December 1st, 2025.