Vegetation Management Member – Saguaro National Park

EPIC • Tucson, AZ

2d • $800 • Onsite

About The Position

American Conservation Experience (ACE), in partnership with Saguaro National Park, is seeking one Member to contribute to Vegetation Management projects alongside NPS Staff. This is an 18-week minimum commitment position. The role involves working in Saguaro National Park's Science and Resource Management Division, primarily focused on invasive plant control. ACE Members will join a team of biologists, biological technicians, volunteers, and interns, with projects located in both districts of the park. Training will be provided in plant identification, removal, herbicide use and mixing, GPS/GIS mapping, data collection, and backcountry survey techniques. Occasional backcountry work, including camping, will occur in the upper elevations of the park (up to 8,600'). Duties also include backcountry surveys for non-native plants, springs/wetlands, cultural resources, and forest health indicators. The work is primarily manual and chemical treatment of invasive plants, requiring adherence to safety guidelines and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment. Projects may occur in the backcountry, alongside roads, and on trails. Members must be able to handle hiking and camping in extreme weather conditions and rugged desert terrain. Mapping of localized infestations and treated areas using GPS, Trimble handheld computers, and GIS software (ArcPro) is a key component. This position is designed to facilitate professional development, exposure to land management agencies, and networking with professionals, potentially including shadowing different work groups.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Ability to be self-directed and work independently, as well as be a positive team member.
• A valid driver's license and an insurable driving record.
• Willingness to undergo and pass a required two-park criminal history check.
• Ability to hike over rough terrain and camp overnight under field conditions.
• Ability to move up to 40 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Hold or be pursuing a bachelor's degree in environmental science, botany, ecosystem restoration, natural resource management, or a related discipline.
• Relevant experience in environmental science, botany, ecosystem restoration, natural resource management, or a related discipline.
• Knowledge and ability to use GIS/GPS equipment in the field.
• Ability and willingness to hike and spend long hours in the backcountry.

Responsibilities

• Invasive plant control through manual and chemical treatment.
• Conducting backcountry surveys for non-native plants, springs/wetlands, cultural resources, and forest health indicators.
• Mapping localized infestations and treated areas using GPS, Trimble handheld computers, and GIS software (ArcPro).
• Recording, entering, and processing data related to vegetation management.
• Using GPS and Trimble units for navigation in the field.
• Participating in ongoing or new monitoring associated with herbicides and invasive plants.
• Representing ACE and the partner organization professionally.
• Completing bi-weekly timesheets, feedback forms, and evaluations.

Benefits

• Living allowance of $800/week, dispersed bi-weekly.
• Housing allowance of $100/week.
• Gear allowance of up to $250 for eligible gear purchases.
• Provided training and orientation, including federal land management policies, vegetation management, herbicide application and safety, and data collection/processing.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed