Invasive Species Member - Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge

EPIC • Forest City, MO

3d • $765 - $765 • Onsite

About The Position

American Conservation Experience (ACE), in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), is seeking an Invasive Species Member to contribute to the mapping and management of invasive plant species and other biological projects under the mentorship of Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge, established in 1935, spans 7,440 acres and includes diverse habitats like wetlands, grasslands, and forests, with unique loess bluffs formations. The position offers professional development, exposure to land management agencies, and networking opportunities. Members will primarily assist with mapping and managing invasive plants, potentially traveling to nearby refuges. Other activities may include biological surveys, outreach programs, and events.

Requirements

• Members must be authorized to work in the United States. ACE does not provide sponsorship for employment visas.
• Willing and able to represent ACE and the partner organization in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner.
• Ability to be both self-directed/work alone, and be a positive, contributing member of a group.
• A valid driver's license and an insurable driving record (documentation to be provided upon request).
• Members must be 21+ to drive due to ACE's insurance and liability requirements.
• Willing to undergo and must pass the required criminal history check.
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• ACE Members will need to complete bi-weekly timesheets, beginning of term feedback forms, end of term evaluations and for longer terms, a mid-term evaluation.
• Member may not participate in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement.

Nice To Haves

• Holding or pursuing a minimum of a 2-year college degree (education or experience in natural resources, biology, ecology or a related subject preferred).
• Able to walk and stand for long periods.
• Able to physically pull or remove invasive plants with hand tools.
• Familiarity with GPS and iPads.
• Ensure quality of the data collected.
• Drive a vehicle and navigate to new destinations.
• Willingness to apply General Use Pesticides with use of appropriate safety equipment, and training in the safe handling of General Use Pesticides.
• Ability to identify plants and distinguish invasive plants from native plants and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work in a team, accept guidance from supervisor and other refuge staff, and lead small groups
• Ability to work independently.
• Willingness to work in field conditions which will include insects, heat, humidity, rain.
• Willingness to participate in training in the mapping as well as pesticide use and safety.

Responsibilities

• GIS mapping of invasive plants
• Physical removal of invasive plants, including hand pulling or with tools (not including chainsaws).
• Application of General Use Pesticides using hand, backpack or ATV-mounted sprayer.
• Assist with other refuge projects, including biological surveys, refuge outreach programs, events, and additional duties as needed or assigned.
• Lead volunteers in noxious weed removal and other projects including trail maintenance

Benefits

• Living Allowance: $765/week to offset the costs of food and incidental expenses, dispersed bi-weekly.
• Housing: Provided housing at no cost for the duration of the term.
• Public Land Corps Hiring Authority: Members may be eligible for a federal hiring authority upon completion of their term of service and 640 hours of service.
• Gear Reimbursement: Up to $200 to spend on eligible gear purchases (boots, jackets, hats) approved by ACE staff prior to purchase.
• Provided Training/Orientation: Position-specific training and an orientation outlining ACE policies and procedures, clear guidance on prohibited activities, and networks for support.
• Specific USFWS training may include ATV/UTV and agricultural tractor to assist with mowing operations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree