Biologist (Invasive Plant Control)

NEW Solutions • Ochopee, FL

18d • Onsite

About The Position

The biologist works within a small team of natural resources staff to plan and implement invasive plant control projects throughout Big Cypress National Preserve. The role conducts invasive plant surveys and assessments, plans treatments using a variety of methods, and implements or oversees treatments carried out by staff, volunteers, and contractors. It applies knowledge of South Florida flora, fauna, and ecological communities to identify and characterize significant invasive plant threats, and works with other staff to develop and prioritize projects.

The position is funded for up to 648 total hours. It also provides logistical support, training, and assistance to other Big Cypress National Preserve staff. Herbicide use is required; appropriate training and personal protective equipment will be provided as appropriate. Work includes office duties and outdoor work of moderate intensity, sometimes in challenging conditions such as heat, humidity, wet weather, thunderstorms, and mosquitoes. The position may occasionally require walking long distances and lifting up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

• At least 15 years of experience implementing invasive plant control in natural areas, or a BA/BS degree in Biological Sciences and at least 3 additional years of experience in a position involving control of invasive plants in Florida.
• Driver’s license and experience operating off-road vehicles.
• Experience with Windows, MS Word, MS Excel, MS Teams, MS Outlook, Adobe Acrobat, and ArcGIS.
• Ability to perform outdoor work of moderate intensity in challenging environmental conditions, occasionally walk long distances, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Legally eligible to work in the United States.
• Applicants must be at least 55 years old.

Nice To Haves

• Pesticide applicator license.
• Experience using helicopters for transportation to remote areas.

Responsibilities

• Conduct invasive plant surveys and assessments and plan treatments using a variety of methods.
• Implement or oversee invasive plant control treatments conducted by NPS staff, volunteers, and contractors.
• Manage projects and data, analyze data, conduct site visits and post-treatment assessments, coordinate or deliver herbicide, and write reports.
• Apply knowledge of South Florida flora, fauna, and ecological communities to identify and characterize significant invasive plant threats.
• Work with staff to plan and develop invasive plant control projects and prioritize them for implementation.
• Provide logistical support, training, and assistance to other Big Cypress National Preserve staff, including operating off-road vehicles to transport people and equipment, helping with field work, and supporting educational and outreach programs.
• Assess the effectiveness of invasive plant control treatments and prescribe follow-up treatments as appropriate.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Mid Level