Invasive Plant Field Technician

Position Title: Invasive Plant Field Technician

Employment Type: Full-time, Seasonal

Location: Anchorage based (various field locations)

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy hands-on outdoor work, are comfortable working in remote or rugged environments, and are passionate about protecting Alaska’s natural resources.

Overview:

We are seeking motivated and detail-oriented Invasive Plant Field Technicians to conduct seasonal fieldwork for invasive plant management projects. Under the supervision of a biologist, technicians will identify, document, and implement control methods in various public and private lands throughout Alaska. The work is outdoors regardless of weather and often physically demanding.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct survey to identify noxious and invasive plants (training provided)
• Document control measures, record geographic locations, and collect field data.
• Implement manual, mechanical, and herbicide control methods including operation of weed whips and occasionally chainsaws
• Compile field data and prepare summaries for reporting
• Collaborate with agencies, communities, landowners, and the public
• Conduct community outreach and education on invasive plants prevention
• Ensure public and personal safety; adhere to all safety and compliance standards
• Perform basic maintenance of tools, equipment, and vehicles

Qualifications & Positions:

Required:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
• Certified Pesticide Applicator (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe). Successful applications should plan to attend a zoom-based training course April 21-23 or complete the training course on their own schedule to prepare to successfully pass the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) certification exams. Certification is challenging and time-consuming. Successful completion will lead to higher starting pay rates.
  • https://dec.alaska.gov/eh/pest/certified-applicators/
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions, lift 50-60 lbs., walk long distances on uneven terrain, perform physically strenuous task in forested, remote, and/or public settings.
• Professional, respectful, and effective communication with coworkers, clients, partners, and the public.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently and as part of a team

Preferred:

• College degree or coursework or degree in Botany, Biology, Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Resource Management, or related field
• Experience in invasive species management or other relevant field work such as part of a scientific crew, landscaping, wildland firefighting, trail building, or other outdoor labor-oriented job.
• Supervisory and/or volunteer management experience is highly desirable
• Experience with GPS/GIS data collection

Field Tech 1: Base pay is $16-$20 per hour, contingent upon knowledge, skills, and abilities for strenuous outdoor work. Ability to learn invasive plant identification and control is essential. Obtaining Alaska DEC – Pesticide Applicator Certification by June 1, 2026, increases pay to $20-$24 per hour (depending on experience). Performance-based raises may be awarded during the season.

Field Tech 2: This position requires demonstrated skills, knowledge, and experience in invasive plant management or related fields. Supervisory, leadership, data collection, GIS, and project management experience are highly desirable. Current Alaska DEC – Pesticide Applicator Certification or ability to achieve by June 1, 2026, is mandatory. Pay is $25-$35 per hour (depending on experience).

Travel & Per Diem: Anchorage-based positions with projects in Girdwood, Kenai Peninsula, Talkeetna, Fairbanks, north of Fairbanks, Beluga/Tyonek, Skwentna, and Cordova. Out-of-town, overnight work travel incurs a per diem of $125 per day.

Work hours and overtime: Work hours for local projects will generally be Monday to Friday 9am-5pm at 36-40 hours per week.  Work hours during frequent out of town projects will be around 10-11 hours per day.

Season: The season runs from mid-May to late September subject to weather and projects. Flexibility for early termination dates for returning students.

Work outdoors and help protect Alaska from harmful invasive plant species – apply today!