Adirondack Invasive Species Management Steward

 

Founded in 1951, the Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters and oceans at unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably and helping make cities more sustainable. One of our core values is our commitment to diversity. Therefore, we strive for a globally diverse and culturally competent workforce. Working in 72 countries, including all 50 United States, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit www.nature.org or follow @nature_press on Twitter.

 

The Adirondack Park Invasive Plant Program (APIPP) is an award-winning invasive species program that leads the Conservancy’s invasive species work in the Adirondack Park in partnership with the New York State (NYS) Department of Environmental Conservation. APIPP is one of eight established Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISMs) in New York. APIPP’s mission is to work in partnership to minimize the impact of invasive species on the Adirondack region’s communities, lands, and waters. Program goals are to prevent new invasive species introductions to the region, detect and rapidly respond to new infestations, and mitigate harmful impacts of established infestations. APIPP advances a comprehensive, integrated approach that incorporates awareness building, prevention, early detection, rapid response, monitoring, restoration, and innovation strategies. Visit www.adkinvasives.com to learn more.

 

The Adirondack Invasive Species Management Steward will help reduce the human introduction of invasive species into the Adirondack Park and reduce the spread of invasive species throughout the Park. The Management Steward conducts invasive species surveys, collects and analyzes data, provides education about invasive species, and manages invasive species at high-use recreation areas such as campgrounds and trailheads throughout the Adirondack region of upstate New York. This is a sixteen-week, full-time, seasonal position for the summer of 2023. The start date is on or about May 15, 2023.

 

 

The Adirondack Invasive Species Management Steward conducts invasive species field work at 100+ high-use recreation areas (campgrounds, trailheads, boat launches and waterbodies, Conservancy preserves, etc.) throughout the Adirondack Park. Daily activities will include, but are not limited to, the following: early detection surveys, data collection with mobile monitoring tools, mechanical invasive plant management, public education/outreach, data analysis, and report writing. The Adirondack Invasive Species Management Steward will work under the direction of APIPP’s Terrestrial Invasive Species Coordinator and may also work closely with other APIPP program staff on securing landowner permissions for invasive species control work, forest pest surveys and other projects that advance APIPP’s contract with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. This description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required for this job.

 

 

·      Performs early detection surveys for invasive species.

·      Collects invasive species distribution and management data using mobile monitoring tools and GPS.

·      Deploys mechanical management techniques to control invasive species.

·      Educates the public about invasive species identification and spread prevention measures.

·      Works alone long hours in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances and assesses risks associated with working conditions.

·      Resolves routine issues independently and may work under infrequent supervision.

·      Requires moderate physical exertion and/or muscular strain.                                             

 

 

·      High school diploma or GED and at least one year of education or experience in land management or a science-related field.

·      Ability to identify invasive plant and animal species.

·      Knowledge of field data collection techniques.

·      Experience working in a team environment.  

·      Strong verbal and written communication skills.                   

·      Must have valid driver’s license and qualify to drive a rented vehicle.

 

 

·      Bachelor’s degree and experience working in invasive species prevention or management.

·      Knowledge of invasive plant/animal biology.

·      Experience with invasive species management tools and techniques.

·      Demonstrated experience collecting scientific data with mobile monitoring tools, GPS, etc.

·      Experience, training, and NYS certification in herbicide application.

·      Experience safely operating small watercraft.

·      Experience using software applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

·      Experience with Geographic Information Systems and writing scientific reports.

·      Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

 

·      This is an hourly position with a pay rate $19.50 per hour for a 35-hour work week, generally Mondays through Fridays, with the flexibility to work an alternate schedule of four long days each week.

·      Cover letter and resume required for application to be considered.

·      Application Deadline: January 30, 2023.

·      The position is based out of the Conservancy’s Keene Valley, NY office. Housing is not provided.

·      Use of a personal vehicle may be necessary and mileage will be reimbursed at the federal milage rate.

·      This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers."

·      No phone calls or emails please.