Invasive Species Technician

The Virginia Department of Forestry is seeking an Invasive Species Technician to assist with botanical survey work in Virginia’s forests. This is a grant-funded, part-time position, not to exceed 1,500 hours per year with the majority of the work occurring in the summer. The role is primarily field based and will require day and overnight travel throughout Virginia. The position is remote but will work closely with DOF’s Forest Health Program in the Charlottesville office.

Duties include: conducting botanical surveys of state forests and state-owned land while searching for non-native invasive plants, collecting data in the field and organizing online databases. The technician will also assist with invasive plant treatment projects.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience identifying the flora of Virginia to species, including understory and canopy species
• Ability to navigate using maps and GPS
• Ability to communicate effectively and take comprehensive observational notes
• Ability to work independently and conduct surveys alone in remote locations
• Ability to hike 5-10 miles daily on foot across different types of forested and rough terrain
• Experience with and ability to use a PC and Microsoft Office software
• Possession of valid Virginia Driver’s License or equivalent

Additional Considerations

• Coursework related to forestry, dendrology, field botany, or plant taxonomy
• Experience using ArcGIS and digital mapping tools
• Experience identifying and managing invasive plants in natural areas