Invasive Species Network Seasonal Survey Crew

Overview

Invasive Species Network Survey Technicians (2)

POSITION SUMMARY

The Invasive Species Survey Technicians (2 positions) work together, along with the Director and Habitat Management Specialist, to implement the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (administered through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore) and the Sustain Our Great Lakes grants, which fund these positions. Primary responsibilities include working as a team to survey natural areas and private properties for slender false brome, to survey for invasive species in the Manistee River State Game Area, and to conduct native species abundancy surveys on private and public properties. Other duties include general invasive species survey work in natural areas, roadsides, and waterways, data entry, enacting the Seeds of Success program, and engaging volunteers.

 

COMPENSATION

The Invasive Species Network Survey Technician is a seasonal position, working up to 40 hours/week for up to 15 weeks. This position is not exempt from overtime requirements, with an hourly wage of $16-18/hour depending on experience. Seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits except those required by law.

 

PREFERRED START DATE

June 2, 2025 (flexible)

 

 

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

Formal Education or Equivalent

·       Seeking a degree from an accredited college or university with excellent academic performance

o   Natural Resources, Biology, or related field preferred

·       At least two seasons of field experience preferred

 

Related Work Experience

·       Experience in northern hardwood forest plant identification

·       Strong experience in northern Michigan flora (native and invasive) preferred

·       Background in natural resource management preferred

 

Skills

·       Must be able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain

o   Able to deal with insect pests and inclement weather

·       Must be able to navigate off trail or in the backcountry, doing transects, using a tablet

·       Strong knowledge of plant identification and regional invasive species

o   Experience with dichotomous keys for plant identification

·       Strong organizational skills

·       Strong and proven team-player AND self-motivated worker

·       Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language

·       Proficient in use of Microsoft Office Suite

·       Proficient knowledge of ArcGIS

 

 

Other

·       Able to work flexible hours

·       Must maintain a valid driver’s license and possess a (registered, insured) vehicle for use during work hours (approved mileage will be reimbursed)

 

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network’s office is located at 3334 Veterans Dr, Unit A, in Traverse City, MI. The Technician will frequently be in the field surveying for terrestrial invasive plant species throughout Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee Counties. The Technician will be working closely with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to survey in and around national lakeshore properties, and with the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians to survey for invasive species in culturally significant areas. Field work may involve traversing uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of temperatures and weather, in areas with incessant insect pests, and may require lifting equipment and materials of up to 40 pounds.  Must have a willingness to travel within a four-county service area.

 

 

Please email completed application, three references, a 1-2 pg resume, and cover letter stating your suitability for the position based on required knowledge and skills to the Invasive Species Network Habitat Management Specialist, Luke Kreykes, at lkreykes@habitatmatters.org The application can be found on the ISN website https://www.habitatmatters.org/employment.html. No calls please.

Job positions are open until filled.

 

 

 

This project is funded in part by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, administered through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the Sustain Our Great Lakes grant initiative.

 

The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

 

The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network (ISN) is a collaboration of over 40 highly motivated and respected organizations in the region. ISN’s mission is to protect, enhance, and promote northwest Michigan’s natural communities through terrestrial invasive plant management and outreach. Its service area includes Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee Counties. More information about ISN can be found at HabitatMatters.org.