See Below
Job Title: Habitat Restoration Field Technician
Office Location: Corvallis, Oregon
Status: Regular, full-time
Compensation: $13-15/hr. depending on experience, plus benefits.
Application period: January 29, 2013 – February 18, 2013.
The Institute for Applied Ecology (www.appliedeco.org) is hiring a full-time technician to assist in a variety of tasks associated with the maintenance of restoration sites in the Willamette Valley. This position is supported by grant funding.
The Institute for Applied Ecology (IAE) is a dynamic nonprofit organization whose mission is conservation of native species and habitats through restoration, research and education. The Habitat Restoration Program of IAE conducts ecological restoration in the Pacific Northwest through on-the-ground restoration, development of ecologically appropriate seed mixes, cultivation of partnerships that promote regional conservation, and the advancement of restoration science techniques.
As part of the Habitat Restoration team, the technician will enhance habitats that support rare plants (e.g., Nelson’s checkermallow and Bradshaw’s lomatium) and wildlife (e.g., Fender’s blue butterfly and western meadowlark) using a variety of restoration techniques (e.g., mowing, grazing, spraying, and seeding).
Specific Duties of the Restoration Technician:
Implement habitat restoration activities developed by supervisor
o Identify and document invasive species
o Apply chemical herbicides
o Remove invasive species using hand tools
o Clear brush using motorized equipment such as weed-eaters and chainsaws
o Operate a tractor and ATV and mechanical attachments such as mowers, discs, and seeders
o Assist with the cultivation, production, and planting of nursery-grown plant materials
o Clean and maintain restoration equipment, power tools and storage areas
Monitor restoration sites
o Conduct site assessments, photo monitoring, and written site descriptions
o Enter and summarize data on a computer
Collect, document, and process seed from native plant species
Maintain daily records of field work
Coordinate with a variety of partners, including landowners
Assist with site and project report writing
Work in collaboration with contractors and provide project oversight and supervision of work crews
Use a GPS device and aerial photos to map project activities and invasive species and navigate to remote sites
Lead volunteer work parties and assist with public outreach events such as field trips
Qualifications:
Interest in habitat restoration, botany, ecology, and horticulture
Plant identification skills (including common weeds)
Valid driver’s license
Ability to read maps and aerial photos (or enthusiastic willingness to learn)
Attention to detail
Ability to work long hours in hot and dry or cold and wet conditions with potential exposure to poison oak and stinging insects (wasps, bees)
Ability to hike up to 3 miles carrying a 40-pound pack and work in a bent-over/kneeling/sitting position for long periods of time. Ability to lift 80 pounds.
A positive attitude and good communication skills
Extra consideration will be given to applicants with experience applying herbicides and operating tractors and equipment, however training can be made available for these key tasks.
To Apply:
To apply for this position, submit a letter of interest, resume, and names and contact information of two references by Monday, February 18th. In your letter of interest, state when you would be available to start work (this is a MUST), and state that we may contact references and past employers. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Non-U.S. residents must also include a copy of their work visa. Applications will be considered upon receipt.
Email or mail application materials to:
Peter Moore
Institute for Applied Ecology
PO Box 2855
Corvallis, Oregon 97339-2855
peter@appliedeco.org
Questions: Contact Peter Moore, Restoration Ecologist, at 541-753-3099 extension 505.