POSITION SUMMARY
The Invasive Species Seasonal Crew Leader works with the Coordinator to implement the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program and Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grant, which funds the position. Primary responsibilities include leading a crew of 2 to work with partner organizations to manage terrestrial invasive plants throughout the region, coordinating treatment with partners, creating maps, working with private landowners, and engaging volunteers.
COMPENSATION
The Invasive Species Seasonal Technician is a seasonal position, working up to 40 hours/week for up to 18* weeks. This position is not exempt from overtime requirements, with an hourly wage of $15-17/hour depending on experience. Seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits except those required by law.
* Pending funding, the Seasonal Crew Lead position may be extended.
PREFERRED START DATE
April 24, 2023
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
Formal Education or Equivalent
● Seeking a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with excellent academic performance and two years field experience
OR
● Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with excellent academic performance; natural resource, biology, or related field of study preferred
Related Work Experience
● Background in natural resource management, particularly in invasive species management
● Experience with hand tools and landscaping
● Experience in northern hardwood forest, wetland, and/or freshwater dune system plant identification
● Experience with herbicides, including safety, proper storage, mixing, and application preferred
Skills
● Must be able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain
● Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certificate (Categories 5 and 6)
o OR ability and willingness to obtain certificate (required—cost covered by ISN)
● Strong knowledge of plant identification and regional invasive species
● Strong invasive species treatment knowledge
● Strong organizational skills
● Strong and proven leader and team-player; experience directing and coordinating work crews
● Excellent social and interpersonal skills, particularly with diverse clientele and work groups
● Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language
● Basic computer proficiency (Windows)
● Proficient knowledge of ArcGIS and GPS unit manipulation
Other
● Able to work flexible hours
● Must maintain a valid driver’s license and possess a (registered, insured) vehicle for use during work hours (approved mileage will be reimbursed)
WORKING CONDITIONS
The Grand Traverse Conservation District’s office is located in the Boardman River Nature Center in Traverse City, MI. Crew Members will frequently be in the field surveying and managing invasive plants throughout Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee counties. Field work may involve traversing uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of air temperatures and weather, in areas with insect pests, and may require lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Must have a willingness to travel within a four-county service area for multiple days (housing expenses would be reimbursed if overnight stays are authorized). Must have a willingness to mechanically control invasive plants as well as become certified and work with chemical herbicides.
TO APPLY
Please email completed application form, resume, and cover letter stating your suitability for the position based on required knowledge and skills to the ISN Coordinator Audrey Menninga at [email protected]. The application form can be found on the ISN website: www.habitatmatters.org/employment No calls please.
This job is open until filled.
This project is funded in part by the Michigan Invasive Species Grant Program and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative through the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network and its fiduciary Grand Traverse Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, military service, or other non-merit factor.