Adirondack Terrestrial Invasive Species Steward

The Nature Conservancy • Town of Keene, NY

1d • $21 - $21 • Onsite

About The Position

What We Can Achieve Together: The Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program (APIPP) is an award-winning invasive species program that leads the Conservancy’s invasive species work in the Adirondack Park in partnership with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). APIPP serves as the host of the Adirondack Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM), one of eight such partnerships in NY. The Adirondack PRISM’s mission is to work in partnership to minimize the impact of invasive species on the Adirondack region’s communities, lands, and waters. Program goals are to prevent new invasive species introductions to the region, to detect and rapidly respond to new infestations, and to mitigate harmful impacts of established infestations. APIPP advances a comprehensive, integrated approach that incorporates awareness building, prevention, early detection, rapid response, monitoring, restoration, and innovation strategies. Visit www.adkinvasives.com to learn more. The Adirondack Terrestrial Invasive Species Steward will help protect the Adirondack Park from the threat of invasive species by conducting invasive species monitoring and management field work. The Management Steward performs invasive species surveys and mechanical, biological, and chemical management of invasive species across the Adirondack region of upstate New York, primarily at high-use recreation areas such as campgrounds and trailheads; collects and analyzes data; providing education about invasive species and preparing reports. We’re Looking for You: The Adirondack Terrestrial Invasive Species Steward is responsible for the monitoring and management of invasive species throughout the Adirondack PRISM, including 100+ high-use recreation areas (campgrounds, trailheads, boat launches and waterbodies, Conservancy preserves, etc.). Daily activities will include, but are not limited to, the following: early detection surveys; data collection with mobile monitoring tools; mechanical, biological, and/or chemical invasive plant management; public education/outreach; data analysis; and writing reports. The Terrestrial Invasive Species Steward will work under the direction of APIPP’s Terrestrial Invasive Species Manager and may also work closely with other APIPP program staff, including aquatic invasive species, forest pest, and communications staff, and on other projects that advance APIPP’s contract with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED and at least two years of education or experience in land management or a science-related field.
• Ability to identify invasive plant and animal species.
• Knowledge of field data collection techniques.
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Experience working and communicating with a wide range of people.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
• This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program.
• Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers."
• Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in botany, natural resources, forestry, or a related field and experience working in invasive species prevention or management.
• Experience, training, or NYS certification in herbicide application.
• Knowledge of invasive plant/animal biology.
• Experience with invasive species management tools and techniques.
• Demonstrated experience collecting scientific data with mobile monitoring tools, GPS, etc.
• Experience safely operating small watercraft.
• Ability to take quality photos while in the field.
• Experience using software applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Responsibilities

• Performs early detection and monitoring surveys for invasive species including checking insect traps.
• Deploys mechanical, chemical, and biological management techniques to control invasive species following Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles in priority areas.
• Collects invasive species distribution and management data using mobile monitoring tools and GPS.
• Educates the public about invasive species identification and spread prevention measures.
• May be required to attend one or more public events on a weekend to represent APIPP and provide invasive species education.
• Works alone long hours in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances and assesses risks associated with working conditions.
• Resolves routine issues independently and may work under infrequent supervision.
• Requires moderate physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
• May occasionally need to work weekends at educational events.

Benefits

• TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED