The Nature Conservancy’s Camp Shelby Field Office seeks an Invasive Species Field Practitioner to work closely with science and conservation staff to assist with tracking and controlling invasive plants at the Camp Shelby Training Site located within the DeSoto National Forest in south Mississippi.
The Invasive Species Practitioner assists with control of cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) and tracking/control of other invasive plant species. He/she will primarily apply herbicides to cogongrass infestations using an ATV or backpack sprayer but may also assist with other techniques to control invasive plant species. May also assist with vegetation monitoring projects, endangered plant species monitoring and rare flora surveys. He/she will also assist with equipment maintenance. This position starts May 28, 2019 and ends August 23, 2019. Lodging is not provided.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Coordinates with the Invasive Species II Field Technician to apply herbicides to cogongrass within priority areas.
- Complies with federal and state regulations and environmental assessments for the control of invasive plants.
- Uses GPS equipment and printed maps to navigate to treatment sites and infestations.
- Record and report daily herbicide usage.
- Safely mix and apply herbicides and operate equipment.
- Assists with ensuring equipment is in safe and proper working order.
- May assist with vegetation monitoring on Camp Shelby and/or Conservancy preserves.
- May assist with endangered plant and other at-risk plant species monitoring/surveys.
- Works under close supervision.
- Work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations for long periods of time in isolated settings, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
- May assist with other projects as needed.
- Experience using common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers).
- A valid driver’s license and safe driving record for operating a TNC owned or leased vehicle.
- Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- College student working toward a degree in biology, ecology, botany, or any other natural resource related field.
- Experience with mixing and applying herbicides; pesticide applicator’s certification preferred but not required.
- Experience with printed maps and GPS equipment.
- Experience traveling off roads and across variable terrain using an ATV loaded with herbicides or backpack sprayer.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
- Ability to safely operate and haul equipment such as UTVs and ATVs. Familiarity with a variety of electrical and fuel powered tools and must be able to operate these tools safely. Must follow safety guidelines and precautions specified for work and vehicle operation.
- Ability to work in a military environment which includes mandatory coordination with Range Control to enter restricted access areas with unexploded ordinance.
- Ability to work in an environment with red bugs, ticks, poisonous plants and venomous snakes.
- Ability to complete tasks independently within assigned timeframes.
- Ability to work in a team environment.
- Ability to obtain a driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.