Noxious Weed Specialist I

County of Thurston•Olympia, WA

About The Position

Thurston County Public Works is recruiting for a Noxious Weed Specialist I to join our dynamic, energetic, and innovative team. The successful candidate enjoys engaging with the public and delivering technical information in a way that is easily understood and can work collaboratively and independently, managing complex projects and assignments. This position is responsible for participating in large noxious weed management projects and will work both in an office setting and in the field. Essential functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: Identify landowners using government records, mapping systems, and/or contact with neighbors. Communicate with landowners, offering recommendations and promote overall weed control program. Track and monitor contacts and outcomes in County database. Report possible enforcement actions pursuant to State Noxious Weed Control Law (RCW 17.10), and the Thurston County Noxious Weed Control Board’s rules and regulations. Treat noxious weed infestations applying the principles of integrated pest management (IPM). Work on noxious weed control projects in remote locations such as lakes, rivers and private properties, requiring travel on foot and watercraft. Collect, enter, and interpret data associated with noxious weed infestations and herbicide applications. Prepare and present noxious weed educational information at public events.

Requirements

Associate's degree in Environmental Science, Ecology, Agriculture or other closely related field. Professional level environmental experience may be substituted for educational requirement on a year for year basis.
One (1) year of environmental program experience.
Ability to utilize a personal computer with applicable software associated with the position.
Current Washington State Driver's License.
Current Washington State Pesticide Consultant/Operator license with aquatic, right-of-way, and agricultural endorsements, within six months of hire.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of botany and plant identification skills.
Understanding of County vegetation management policy and Noxious Weed Control Program.
Understanding of State Noxious Weed Law, Federal and State pesticide laws and applicable regulations.
Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally at all levels within the organization.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of individuals and groups including customers in high stress situations.
Demonstrated knowledge and efficiency with GPS/GIS, ACCESS databases and other Microsoft Office software programs and applications.
Ability to work both collaboratively and independently.

Responsibilities

Identify landowners using government records, mapping systems, and/or contact with neighbors.
Communicate with landowners, offering recommendations and promote overall weed control program.
Track and monitor contacts and outcomes in County database.
Report possible enforcement actions pursuant to State Noxious Weed Control Law (RCW 17.10), and the Thurston County Noxious Weed Control Board’s rules and regulations.
Treat noxious weed infestations applying the principles of integrated pest management (IPM).
Work on noxious weed control projects in remote locations such as lakes, rivers and private properties, requiring travel on foot and watercraft.
Collect, enter, and interpret data associated with noxious weed infestations and herbicide applications.
Prepare and present noxious weed educational information at public events.