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14 May 2019

Temporary Invasive Plant Control Technician

Pierce Conservation District – Posted by [email protected] Eatonville, Washington, United States

Job Description

About:

Pierce Conservation District is a non-regulatory division of state government that has been working with landowners to manage natural resources since 1949. This summer we will continue our 11+ year efforts in removing invasive knotweed plants from priority watersheds in order to restore critical riparian areas and salmon habitat. Technicians will assist one of the largest and most established knotweed control programs in the Puget Sound Region.

Duties:

The technicians will operate as a crew, under the direction of the Habitat Improvement Coordinator, to treat invasive knotweed plants on South Prairie Creek, the Upper Nisqually River, and their tributaries. Treatments will occur primarily through aquatic-approved herbicide application. Technicians may be asked to assist with other knotweed-related tasks or control work in additional project areas. This position is almost exclusively field-based.

Specific duties include the following:

  • Learn, and practice daily, appropriate pesticide handling and application techniques and protocols (primarily foliar spray applications and associated tasks)
  • Use appropriate protocol to treat known knotweed plants using herbicide along the Upper Nisqually River and its tributaries, South Prairie Creek and its tributaries, and other project sites as needed
  • Assist with the daily completion of project and herbicide application records
  • Search thoroughly for knotweed within the project area
  • Use digital handheld maps (ArcGIS Collector) to navigate in-field as well as to map and survey knotweed
  • Prepare and maintain project equipment and supplies
  • Communicate effectively with the crew lead and/or Habitat Improvement Coordinator regarding site conditions, progress, and challenges
  • Identify and prepare potential planting sites which were formerly infested by knotweed
  • Occasionally assist with miscellaneous administrative, clerical, and/or outreach facets of the project

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Required:

  • Ability to work efficiently, systematically, and positively as part of a crew; as well as independently
  • Knowledge and experience in environmental studies and Puget Sound plant species identification (native and non-native)
  • Interest in and commitment to salmon restoration and/or natural resource enhancement
  • Ability to hike up to several miles per day in streams and over uneven terrain carrying a 24+ lb. backpack sprayer
  • Willingness to work near fast-moving water with exposure to insects and other hazards
  • Ability to work outside in remote locations
  • Ability to work outside in inclement and/or hot weather
  • Ability to outfit self with appropriate field gear (i.e. durable clothing, rubber boots, etc.)
  • Ability to maintain accurate records regarding project sites, herbicide application details, timekeeping, and authorized expenses
  • Service-oriented attitude and constructive problem-solving skills
  • Strong oral and written communication skills

Desired:

  • Has a WSDA Public Operator’s pesticide license with an Aquatics endorsement (http://agr.wa.gov/PestFert/LicensingEd/Licensing.aspx), or the ability to quickly obtain one
  • Experience with noxious weed identification, ecology, and management
  • Experience with herbicide practices and protocols
  • Working knowledge of GPS units and GIS programs
  • Valid driver’s license, insurance, and ability to operate a 4-wheel drive vehicle

Salary and Schedule:

This is a full-time, seasonal position with a fixed term of July 8 – September 19. Time commitment is 40 hours/week, working four 10-hour days, Monday – Thursday, 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

The technician will report to one of three work sites each day, per the schedule below:

  • July 9: Pierce Conservation District office, Puyallup
  • July 10-August 22: Pack Forest, Eatonville*
  • August 26 – September 19: South Prairie Creek Preserve, South Prairie*

*discounted or free camping options are available at these locations

The compensation for this position is $15-$19/hour, depending on experience. There are no medical or other benefits, and no paid holidays. Hip waders and/or chest waders will be provided.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted until positions are filled, with review beginning May 20. Apply at https://www.piercecd.org/Jobs.

Job Categories: Ecology. Job Types: Temporary. Salaries: 20,000 - 40,000.

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