Seasonal NNIS Technician Lead (Asheville, NC)

Appalachian Trail Conservancy•Asheville, NC

2d•$21 - $24

About The Position

The Non-Native Invasive Species (NNIS) Lead Technician will report to the NNIS Coordinator and provides leadership for NNIS field crews along the Appalachian Trail in NC, TN, VA, and GA, focusing on areas impacted by Hurricane Helene. This position combines fieldwork with supervisory and coordination duties. The mobile crew is based in Asheville, NC, with some office work. Frequent travel to remote locations is required. This is a full-time position (35–40 hours/week) from February through November. Primary responsibilities include inventorying NNIS, implementing management prescriptions, performing chemical and mechanical treatments, mapping, and completing compliance and reporting documentation.

Requirements

BA/BS degree in conservation biology, ecology, forestry, or natural resource management or associate degree with 3-5 years of field experience required.
At least 1 year of experience in a leadership role managing a team.
Minimum of 2 years’ experience performing natural resource management and stewardship activities.
Strong problem-solving skills, independence, and ability to handle complex field situations.
Experience operating land stewardship safely (loppers, hand saws, brush cutters, chainsaws, PPE).
Pesticide applicator license in TN, NC, GA, and/or VA preferred; willingness to obtain post-hire required.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to foster collaboration with staff, partners, and volunteers.
Experience with ArcGIS, GPS, and GIS principles; proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google applications.
Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) Requirement: This position requires the successful candidate to pass a motor vehicle record check. Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a driving record that meets organizational and insurance requirements.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Southern Appalachian ecology and the Appalachian Trail preferred
Ability to differentiate NNIS from native flora preferred.
Proven leadership or supervisory experience in field-based crews.
Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder and CPR certification preferred (may be obtained post-hire).

Responsibilities

Lead field crews in implementing chemical and mechanical NNIS management treatments.
Conduct NNIS inventory and ensure accurate data collection and reporting.
Assist with ash tree treatments against emerald ash borer in TN, NC, and GA.
Coordinate daily field logistics, equipment uses, and safety protocols.
Train, mentor, and supervise Technicians and volunteers in field procedures.
Lead, plan, and coordinate NNIS management workdays with trail clubs, volunteers, and partners.
Collaborate with ATC staff, partners, and trail clubs to coordinate NNIS management efforts.
Support development of NNIS management prescriptions, compliance documentation, and reporting to federal partners.
Follow the direction of NNIS Coordinators with respect to duties, logistics, timetables, projects, submit biweekly timesheets, and perform other duties as assigned.