Invasive Species Technician - Aquatic

Hobart and William Smith Colleges Geneva, NY Full-time Farming / Fishing / Forestry

Posted on May 16, 2024

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Invasive Species Technician - Aquatic
Hobart William Smith Colleges

Location: Geneva, NY
Open Date: Feb 20, 2024

Description
Under the supervision of Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges staff and Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (FL PRISM), AIS Technicians will assist in fieldwork, outreach, and education related to high priority and emerging aquatic invasive species (AIS). AIS Techs will primarily participate in aquatic plant surveys around the Finger Lakes region. Techs will also work with managers to physically remove high-priority species such as water chestnut.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Monitor for invasive species through the collection of data related to plant communities, water quality, and other abiotic properties of aquatic ecosystems

Collect and submit accurate field data following established protocols

Use motorized and non-motorized watercraft to navigate waterways

Work under minimal and distant supervision; must make independent decisions based on experience and judgment

Resolve routine issues independently, consulting with FLI staff to develop plans for resolution of complex and unusual problems

Drive and assist with campus-owned vehicles with trailers attached, including loading and unloading trailers and gear

Attend training conducted by the Finger Lakes Institute and Finger Lakes PRISM staff

Use watercraft, hip waders, and other tools to physically remove invasive plants from known locations in the Finger Lakes

Help lead or monitor work groups consisting of volunteers covering a wide geographic area.

May be asked to work weekends and holidays

OTHER INFORMATION: This is a seasonal (summer), non-benefits-eligible position. Position is based at boat launches throughout the Finger Lakes region and requires travel to Hobart and William Smith Colleges. The Finger Lakes PRISM is one of eight PRISMs supported via funding from the New York State Environmental Protection Fund as administered by NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation. Willingness and ability to travel and to work nights and weekends on occasion. Access to reliable transportation is required. Employee will be reimbursed at the federally approved rate for work related travel when using personal vehicle for travel beyond their commute. This position description is not all-inclusive as other tasks or responsibilities may be assigned. Pay range is $18.00 - $19.00 per hour.

Qualifications

Experience in identifying plant and animal species, or enthusiasm for plant or animal identification
Experience in or ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work, preferably biological monitoring
Experience or comfort in operating various types of equipment including motor and hand-powered watercraft, chest waiters, tablets, GPS units
Valid driver’s license and motor vehicle check required
Experience or ability to work in wet, muddy conditions
Experience in working in a team environment
Ability to lift 35 pounds

Application Instructions

For more information and to apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/141403

Hobart and William Smith Colleges are committed to providing a non-discriminatory and harassment-free educational, living and working environment for all members of the HWS community, including students, faculty, staff, volunteers, and visitors. HWS prohibits discrimination and harassment in their programs and activities on the basis of age, color, disability, domestic violence victim status, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other status protected under the law. Discrimination on the basis of sex includes sexual harassment, sexual violence, sexual assault, and other forms of sexual misconduct including stalking and intimate partner violence, and gender-based harassment that does not involve conduct of a sexual nature.

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