Seasonal Invasive Species Technician

2024 Seasonal Invasive Species Technician Positions

The Wild Rivers Invasive Species Coalition (WRISC) is a multi-partner organization dedicated to the management of invasive species on our lands and waters through cooperation, education, prevention, and control across the counties of Florence, Forest, Marinette (WI), Dickinson, and Menominee (MI). 

WRISC is seeking several Invasive Species Technicians to work with our invasive species Strike Team. These are seasonal positions for the 2024 field season which will include diverse work experience conducting various invasive species management activities, including education, outreach, mapping, and control work.  WRISC is looking to hire at least two (2) technicians but may hire more as funding allows.

The positions will be funded by multiple grants and hired through the Dickinson Conservation District (the WRISC fiscal agent).  Staff will operate out of the Dickinson Conservation District office in Kingsford, MI, but conduct work duties across the five-county area using District-owned vehicles. 

Duties of Invasive Species Strike Team Technician:

Work under the direction of the WRISC Coordinator and/or Project Manager.  Survey and identify invasive plant species (primarily terrestrial/wetland species) and record locations using a handheld GPS unit or tablet using field data collection apps.  Conduct manual and chemical control of invasive plants on private and public land.  Collect required information and integrate into WRISC computer records and online database (Excel, GIS, etc.).  Responsibly operate and maintain all provided equipment and materials, including the towing of trailered watercraft/off-road vehicles and all management equipment such as backpack sprayers and hand tools. Participate in various water quality monitoring activities, utilizing a variety of watercraft and tools. Assist as needed at volunteer workdays, trainings, and other outreach events.  Maintain a flexible schedule and regular availability. Be willing to work outside in a variety of weather conditions and occasionally long hours with early start times.  Be able to complete certification testing to become Certified Pesticide Applicator.

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must have a valid state driver’s license and good driving record
• Be willing to submit to random drug testing
• Current student pursuing, or recent graduate with an associate or bachelor’s degree in a natural resources field (preferred)
• Be able to work in a variety of outdoor terrain and weather conditions
• Safely carry a 4-gallon backpack sprayer for extended periods of time and able to lift 50 pounds
• Able to walk several miles every day, often on moderately difficult/uneven terrain
• Capable of operating both motorized and non-motorized watercraft
• At least survival swimming skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative attitude
• Ability to self-start and work independently
• Excellent communication skills with the general public
• Attention to detail and record-keeping
• Ability to operate mechanical equipment in a safe and responsible manner
• General knowledge of the threat posed by invasive species and local land/water conservation issues preferred
• Experience with plant identification and GPS use preferred (training provided)
• GIS experience preferred
• Michigan or Wisconsin Pesticide Applicator Certification or ability to obtain certification by start date (required, cost covered by WRISC)

Trucks will be used to travel between work sites and safely transport herbicide and equipment. Technicians must provide their own transportation to the location where trucks will be provided (main office). Technicians may need to provide their own transportation to select work sites and for certain duties depending on truck availability (approved mileage will be reimbursed).

Office Location: Kingsford, Michigan.

Work Period:  May/June – August/October; 32-40 hrs/wk

Start and end dates are flexible, although we would prefer employees to begin in May and end in August/September, or even into October if available and as funding allows.  Hours and weekly work schedules will also be variable.  As these positions are almost entirely field based, with limited office work, applicants should recognize that hours per week and schedules may often change at the last minute due to the weather.  
Strike Team schedules will be variable and may include work on weekends.

Pay: $18.00/hr.