Aquatic Technician

Position: Aquatic Technician

Location: Alpena, Michigan 

Responsible To: Ecologist

Employment Term: Full-Term is March 31st-November 21st

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Huron Pines: Huron Pines is a nonprofit conservation organization with a mission to conserve and enhance Northern Michigan’s natural resources to ensure healthy water, protected places and vibrant communities. Our vision is conservation driven by engaged, empowered communities. We are committed to understanding the many ways in which people connect with nature and the outdoors in Northern Michigan and how our work can support those experiences while at the same time recognizing that while we believe that a strong connection with the outdoors is important for health and wellbeing, not every individual or community’s experience or opportunity to create those connections is the same. Through our work to continue learning and understanding, we will strengthen our awareness of the barriers and inequities that exist at the individual and community levels in order to advance more equitable opportunities to experience the outdoors in our region.

Scope and Purpose of Work: The Aquatic Technician will participate in implementing a variety of habitat restoration projects across aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in Northeast Michigan with a focus on the unique habitats along Lake Huron’s coastline. The Aquatic Technician will take on special project responsibilities that include assisting with invasive sea lamprey research and control efforts in Northeast Michigan.  We are looking for a motivated individual with a passion for the stewardship of our natural resources, who will be a strong team member, help problem solve, work efficiently and confidently without direct supervision, and maintain a high level of professionalism in field and office settings. 

Position Duties/Responsibilities May Include:

Approximately 80% field work, 15% office work, 5% education/outreach

• Collaborate with staff, outside agencies, volunteers, and landowners to manage invasive species through chemical and physical removal techniques and surveys
• Assist the Hammond Bay Biological Station with sea lamprey supplemental control research which may include: wading in rivers and streams, electrofishing, weighing and measuring fish, deploying and evaluating sea lamprey controls such as box traps and seasonal electric barriers
• Plan and conduct aquatic surveys by collecting data on stream morphology, road/stream crossings, water quality and macroinvertebrates, including monitoring for Hungerford’s crawling water beetle.
• Assist with the monitoring of threatened and endangered species
• Assist with native plantings and seed collections to enhance grassland communities
• Assist with tree and brush removal to enhance wildlife habitat
• Ensure safe and responsible operation and decontamination of Huron Pines equipment
• Maintain a high level of communication with the Ecologist
• Submit accurate reports that include electronic forms, digital photos, and GPS/GIS data
• Assist the Coastal Restoration Team and other staff as needed in other project areas such as education, water resources, and land protection
• Occasionally stay overnight via camping or provided lodging to complete project tasks

Required Qualifications:

• A minimum of one year’s experience completing natural resource management projects and/or a relevant Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Familiarity with navigational tools such as GPS and paper maps, Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Must maintain reliable transportation to and from work
• Ability to work in a team setting
• Commitment to the mission and goals of Huron Pines, a passion for Michigan’s natural resources, and a willingness to learn
• Must be able to represent Huron Pines in a professional manner in the field and office setting
• Be willing and able to obtain the Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certificate, including categories 2, 5 and 6 (associated fees are covered by Huron Pines, certification is valid for 3 years)
• Must be able to work efficiently outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrain while maintaining a positive attitude
• Ability to comply with safety regulations and protocol administered by Huron Pines staff
• Ability to pass a background and/or security check
• Ability to hike while carrying a backpack sprayer or other equipment weighing up to 30 pounds (reasonable accommodations may be made)

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Knowledge of aquatic systems biology including macroinvertebrates and chemical composition
• Posses a valid driver’s license and up-to-date car insurance
• Ability to identify invasive, native, and at risk plant species common to the state of Michigan
• Experience with herbicides, including safety, proper storage, mixing, and application
• Experience with GIS mapping and data collection, specifically Field Maps and Avenza Maps
• Experience in safely operating watercraft, off-road vehicles, pickup trucks while towing loaded trailers, chainsaws, brushcutters, and other power tools

Benefits and Learning Outcomes:

• This position pays $16-$17/hr. with the opportunity for an end-of-season bonus
• 3 day weekends! The work week is generally four, ten-hour days
• Employees receive three paid federal holidays and 48 hours of paid time off
• On-the-job training and the opportunity to learn about and explore Northern Michigan!
• The opportunity to build a professional resume including the addition of a 3-year certification.
• A work vehicle is provided, if you must use a personal vehicle you will be reimbursed for mileage
• Apparel that you can keep – Huron Pines shirts, hat, and a pair of muck boots
• Have a hand in directly influencing the health of Northern Michigan’s natural resources!