SCI Seasonal Invasive Technician

San Diego State University Research Foundation•San Diego, CA
•Onsite

About The Position

SERG is seeking a Seasonal Invasive Technician to conduct invasive plant mapping and control, along with other botany-related projects, on San Clemente Island, a U.S. Navy installation and active training site. The role is part of the Navy’s Natural Resources Program and works with the Invasive Plant and Botany Project Manager, a crew of up to two other Seasonal Technicians, and five permanent staff members. The position runs from January 5, 2027, through June 2027 and is full-time and hourly, paying $24.65 per hour plus a full benefits package. All work is conducted on San Clemente Island. The position requires arduous manual labor, outdoor work in all weather, heavy lifting and carrying, and work on rugged terrain. Housing is provided while working on the island but not during the four-day off-island weekends. The work schedule consists of 10 days on the island followed by four days off-island. Transportation to and from the island is provided from the San Diego area by twin-engine, 19-seat plane. Relocation benefits are not offered. Applicants should enjoy living in a small, remote community and maintain a professional, positive attitude. Candidates must reside in California and live within commuting distance of SDSU at the time of hire. Employment is contingent on satisfactory background-check clearance for military base access.

Requirements

  • Complete sufficient lower-division coursework, or have the equivalent of one year of related experience in lieu of coursework.
  • Interact effectively with co-workers, contractors, and Navy personnel; relate well to others in the project environment; and demonstrate strong interpersonal skills.
  • Understand and follow posted work rules, directions, and procedures.
  • Communicate effectively orally and in writing; stay organized, meet deadlines, and demonstrate attention to detail.
  • Demonstrate a high level of cross-cultural sensitivity and a passion for Southern California flora.
  • Have physical endurance for strenuous labor under varied weather and work conditions; repeatedly lift up to 45 pounds throughout the workday; and safely navigate and work off-trail on steep, rocky, cactus-covered terrain.
  • Use good judgment and common sense and maintain a high level of motivation and energy.
  • Pass a background check to obtain clearance for military base access; the job offer is contingent on satisfactory clearance, including a criminal record check.
  • Have a valid driver’s license and good driving record, and be able to drive four-wheel-drive vehicles.
  • Hold a valid California Qualified Applicator Certificate or be able to become certified within two months of hiring.
  • Reside in California and live within commuting distance of SDSU at the time of hire.

Nice To Haves

  • Bachelor’s degree in botany, ecology, biology, or a related discipline.
  • Previous experience in invasive plant control.
  • Familiarity with Southern California flora.
  • Experience with GIS.
  • Experience safely operating and maintaining mechanical equipment, hand tools, and herbicide application equipment.
  • Experience maintaining and repairing small engines and motor vehicles.

Responsibilities

  • Monitor invasive plant populations.
  • Control invasive plants manually, mechanically, and chemically.
  • Monitor rare plant populations.
  • Monitor vegetation cover.
  • Maintain and monitor native species outplantings.
  • Collect native plant propagules.
  • Propagate native plants.
  • Use GPS in the field and GIS software.
  • Enter data and maintain databases.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

  • Full benefits package.
  • Housing provided while working on San Clemente Island.
  • Transportation to and from the island provided from the San Diego area.
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