Biological Field Tech

CATAWBA INDIAN NATION • Rock Hill, SC

19h • Onsite

About The Position

The Catawba Nation’s Department of Natural Resources is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the position of Biological Field Technician. This is a full-time position funded through the America the Beautiful Challenge (ATBC). The Biological Field Technician will work under the general supervision of the Department’s Wildlife & Habitat Stewardship Program Manager and will support field-based conservation and restoration activities across Tribal lands. Primary duties include the removal and management of invasive plant species, implementation of native plant restoration projects, and assistance with the development and application of invasive species management protocols. The Technician will conduct vegetation monitoring, collect and manage plant population data, and accurately enter field data into designated databases and reporting systems. This position will play a key role in advancing the Department of Natural Resources’ efforts to restore and enhance native plant communities, particularly giant rivercane, while supporting broader conservation objectives, habitat resilience, and long-term ecological stewardship within the Catawba Nation.

Requirements

• At least 6 months of field ecological research or natural resource management
• Hands-on work in invasive species removal and ecosystem restoration
• Knowledge and practice of herbicide application for vegetation management
• Operation and maintenance of power equipment such as mowers, chainsaws, and related tools
• Demonstrated responsible care and maintenance of field equipment
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Possess a clean, valid state driver’s license and be insurable under the Tribe’s insurance policy
• Knowledge of basic ecological principles, wildlife biology, and habitat management practices
• Ability to identify common plant and wildlife species in the Southeast (or willingness to learn)
• Strong data collection and record-keeping skills
• Basic understanding of safety protocols and risk management in field environments
• Experience with field sampling techniques (vegetation surveys, wildlife monitoring, water quality sampling, etc.)
• Ability to work independently in remote settings as well as collaboratively within a team
• Willingness for occasional travel for trainings, meetings, workshops, and conferences

Nice To Haves

• Additional coursework or training in natural resources, ecology, or environmental science
• Certifications in herbicide application, GIS/GPS mapping, or ecological restoration

Responsibilities

• Identify target native invasive plant species and assess priority populations for management and restoration activities
• Assist with habitat restoration projects, including prairie restoration, riparian restoration, and the reestablishment of native species such as rocky mountain shoal spider lilies along the Catawba River
• Conduct invasive plant management using chemical, mechanical, and manual control methods in accordance with established protocols
• Assist with vegetation removal, site preparation, planting, GPS data collection, and vegetation monitoring
• Operate and maintain power equipment and hand tools, including mowers, weed-eaters, chainsaws, and related field equipment
• Collect, compile, and manage field data for analysis, reporting, and project evaluation
• Prepare clear, accurate, and detailed technical reports and documentation to support project tracking and grant requirements

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees