Noxious Weed & Stewardship Technician

Employment Type: Temporary, Full-time

Duration: The 2026 season is expected to begin mid-April and end mid-August. Start and end dates can be flexible to accommodate academic commitments.

Compensation: $20-$23/hr

Location: 222 N. Havana Street #112 Spokane Valley, WA 99202.

Our Mission

The Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board (SCNWCB) works to mitigate the environmental, economic, health, and social impacts of noxious weeds in Spokane County through education, partnership, landowner assistance, and enforcement of noxious weed law. SCNWCB was established in 1970 to serve the residents of Spokane County, Washington by carrying out the mandates of State Weed Law RCW 17.10, which requires landowners to control and/or eradicate regulated noxious weeds on their property.

Position Summary

The Spokane County Noxious Weed Control Board is seeking to hire four (4) Noxious Weed & Stewardship Technicians. These seasonal positions will assist SCNWCB Specialists with carrying out all aspects of invasive plant detection, monitoring, and mitigation across Spokane County.

Primary Responsibilities

• Within an assigned region of Spokane County, conduct monitoring and data collection for up to 100 species of State-listed noxious weeds and other invasive plants of interest.
• Notify landowners of noxious weeds detected on their property.
• Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries from the public regarding notices or general questions.
• On a regular basis, provide technical assistance regarding plant identification and control options in person, via phone and over email to landowners.
• Under supervision, identify properties requiring enforcement (agency-imposed noxious weed treatments) and work with private chemical applicators to arrange these treatments.
• Assist Specialists and the Coordinator with special projects as needed. Projects involve applying herbicide with backpack sprayers, using kayaks, and using a variety of hand tools.
• Additional duties as assigned, which may include technician-specific projects.

Working Conditions

• Most fieldwork is performed independently. Technicians must be able to work well with minimal supervision both independently and on a small crew.
• Approximately 70% of the Technician’s time is spent in the field, with approximately 30% spent in the office. Work in the field requires physical labor such as walking and hiking on uneven terrain in addition to driving long distances for extended periods of time. Office work requires extended periods of sitting.
• The field season occurs throughout late Spring and Summer, meaning technicians will be exposed to rain, summer heat, pollen, and insects. Work brings Technicians into frequent, sustained proximity to a variety of plants, some of which are spiny or toxic.
• Employees use their personal vehicle for performing inspection duties and receive mileage reimbursement consistent with the IRS-established rate for business travel. As of January 1, 2026, the IRS mileage reimbursement rate is 72.5 cents per mile.

Position Schedule

This is a seasonal position based off a 40-hour work week that runs from mid-April until mid-August. The work week is 8:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. Participating in meetings, workshops, and special projects may occasionally require working outside of normal work hours. There is potential for a small amount of weekend work.

Development Opportunities

SCNWCB strongly values the development of its employees and, accordingly, offers a range of training and opportunities including the following:

• All Technicians undergo extensive training, provided by SCNWCB, aimed at developing proficiency in identifying common and select rare plants of Eastern Washington.
• All Technicians are awarded two “Development Days” per season where they may volunteer for an agency or non-profit organization related to natural resources, conservation, wildlife, and/or agriculture and receive full pay. Senior staff are active in helping Technicians learn about and connect with agencies and organizations, as well as arrange Development Days.
• SCNWCB has many outreach, education, volunteer, and social media projects with which interested Technicians are encouraged to assist senior staff.
• SCNWCB pays for all employees to obtain and maintain a Washington Public Pesticide Applicator Permit. Technicians are also given training covering commonly used herbicides, their label requirements, applications, and other information. Special projects will also provide employees with opportunities to mix and apply herbicide in a variety of settings.

Qualifications

Candidates who do not meet all required qualifications are encouraged to submit a cover letter explaining their interest in the position, qualifications, and how this position aligns with their career goals.

Required

• Highschool diploma, GED or equivalent education.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Technicians must have a reliable personal vehicle they can use for performing inspection duties. All employees receive mileage reimbursement (72.5 cents/mi as of 01/01/2026).
• Good driving record and ability to drive for extended periods of time.
• Ability to identify the state-listed noxious weed species of Spokane County within thirty (30) days of employment (training and study material provided by SCNWCB).
• Basic computer skills and ability to learn programs including Microsoft suite and FieldMaps.
• Ability to obtain a Washington Public Operator’s Pesticide License within thirty (30) days of employment (training material and testing fee provided by SCNWCB).
• Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public and other agencies.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Excellent organization and ability to balance multiple priorities.

Preferred

• Two years of college level classes in biology, botany, agriculture, ecology, environmental science or related field OR;
• Demonstrated experience in plant identification, natural resources, weed control, agriculture and/or a related field.
• Familiarity with noxious weed boards/programs within or outside Washington.
• Familiarity with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices.
• Previous experience working with the public.