Natural Resources Field Technician

ACRT•Stow, OH

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Natural Resources Field Technician is responsible for assisting with fieldwork related to wetland assessments. The position involves significant fieldwork alongside a team of biologists, ecologists, and environmental scientists, offering hands-on experience in field surveys, ecological studies, and data capture and management to help assess the health of ecosystems, wildlife, and natural habitats. This position may also include other natural resources project work including, but not limited to aquatic surveys, habitat restoration services, and species inventory surveys. Requirements for this position include but are not limited to field work and data management while also offering the opportunity to assist with other natural resources or other department project efforts.

Requirements

Enrolled in or recently graduated from a bachelor’s program in a field of natural sciences.
Familiarity with basic ecological principles and practices, including field work or study.
Willingness to conduct field work in harsh conditions and over long workdays.
Overnight travel.
Repeat motions that may include the wrist, hands, and/or fingers.
Occasionally there may be a need to remain in a stationary position for long periods of time.
Communication with others to exchange information.
Must be able to see, read, write, and speak.
Must be able to complete work by standing, walking, reaching, stooping, kneeling, crouching.
Working outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
Walking for periods of time including maneuvering uneven, uphill, and downhill terrain.
Heavy work that includes moving, lifting, and carrying objects up to 50 lbs., or more.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on experience conducting wetland surveys and evaluations.
Identification of wetland and upland plants.
Familiarity with soil sampling as it relates to wetland identification.
Familiarity with identifying hydrology as it relates to wetland identification.
Familiarity with ecological field equipment, such as GPS units and/or tablets and Geodes.
Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Strong skills in conducting detailed field surveys, including identification of wetland plants to species and hydric soil identification.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work under direct supervision of field crew leaders in a team environment.
High attention to detail in data collection, analysis, and reporting to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Experience with data management systems, mapping software (e.g., QGIS), and field survey technology.
Flexibility to handle changes in schedule, location, and project scope based on field conditions and project needs.

Responsibilities

Attend project training and preparation and progress meetings as necessary.
Assist with biological assessments in wetland systems following prescribed protocol.
Collect and process wetland data on vegetation, soil and water.
Identify vegetation to species using taxonomic guides and diagnostic keys.
Gather field data using GPS/tablet Geode units, data sheets, and electronic devices.
Assist with other field work within natural resources or other departments as needed.
Conduct field work in adverse weather and rough terrain.
Complete data forms from information collected in the field.
Input, organize, and manage ecological data electronically.
Ensure accurate documentation of field activities, including photography and note-taking.
Communicate effectively with project managers, field crew leads, team leads, and other crew members.
Ensure that all fieldwork and project activities follow approved study plans and federal, state, and/or local environmental assessment protocols.