Nature & Purpose of the Position

The Habitat Improvement Technician is a technical position of the Pierce Conservation District (PCD) requiring field work, project management, volunteer management and leadership skills.  This position will add capacity to the PCD’s Habitat Improvement Program and requires flexibility within defined job duties.  This is a full-time position that reports to the Habitat Improvement and Environmental Education Program Director.

The ideal candidate will have a proven knowledge of Puget Sound lowland and riparian ecosystems and native plant communities, as well as a highly-motivated work ethic and ability to work cooperatively and positively with members of the public.  He or she will be committed to producing high quality work in a fast-paced environment and can handle multiple high priority projects at any given time.  This position is an opportunity to work with private landowners, public and non-profit partners, and other stakeholders to reach regional and local goals set for salmon recovery and habitat restoration.

About Pierce Conservation District 

Pierce Conservation District is government that works. We work strategically and passionately to conserve and restore the natural resources of Pierce County. Our work improves both rural and urban communities to benefit the health and well-being of our citizens. We work in five core program areas: Farm Assistance, Water Quality Improvement, Habitat Restoration, Urban Agriculture, and Environmental Education. The District works for clean water, healthy soil, salmon recovery and local food access for all.  When you join the Pierce Conservation District staff, you join a team of talented and committed people who are mission-driven and care deeply about improving our environment and our community.

Primary Job Responsibilities

The Habitat Improvement Technician will add capacity to the Habitat Improvement Program and support the Habitat Improvement Director and other team members as needed.  Examples of specific responsibilities are expected to include the following:

• Lead and/or assist with design and implementation of habitat restoration projects
• Design, develop, and implement restoration planting monitoring protocol
• Lead and/or assist with volunteer work parties
• Provide assistance and support to the District’s annual bare root plant sale
• Schedule and perform site preparation and/or maintenance on habitat restoration projects
• Meet with landowners and provide recommendations for meeting natural resource goals
• Prepare reports on activities and progress as directed by the Habitat Improvement & Environmental Education Program Director or the District’s Executive Director.
• Other duties as assigned by the Habitat Improvement & Environmental Education Program Director or the District’s Executive Director.

Qualifications

We are seeking high-achieving, hard-working, self-motivating individuals who are committed to protecting Pierce County’s natural resources. 

Candidates must have a thorough and comprehensive understanding of Puget Sound ecosystems, riparian environments, and salmon ecology.

Attention to detail, ability to clearly communicate thoughts and ideas, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team are critical characteristics of the person in this position.  Additionally, candidates for this position should have:

• Bachelor’s degree with focus of study in environmental science(s), ecology, biology, or related natural sciences field; significant job experience may be accepted in lieu of a degree (at least two years in similar working environment)
• Native plant identification abilities and knowledge of western Washington native plant communities
• Understanding of habitat restoration principals, concepts, and components
• Experience managing multiple projects and ability to multi-task and prioritize competing, concurrent assignments
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office/Office 365 suite of software programs
• Flexible schedule and ability to work some evenings and weekends
• Commitment to and passion for locally led conservation and community improvement
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle for transportation to and from the field
• Ability to work closely and collaboratively with others in a public office environment.
• Ability to organize and plan own schedule of activities related to work plan goals approved by the Habitat Improvement Program Director
• Ability to maintain accurate records regarding time-keeping and authorized expenses
• Service-oriented attitude and constructive problem solving skills

Desired Skills

Applicants with the following skills and experience are likely to be more competitive in the candidate selection process:

• Academic training or experience with planning and/or implementing habitat restoration/planting projects
• Recent experience using Arc GIS, preferably in applications related to natural resource work
• Field experience with wetland delineation
• Field experience with soil typing and identification
• Experience working with and/or leading volunteers
• Invasive, non-native plant management
• Knowledge of Pierce County codes and regulations relating to natural resources
• Experience developing and maintaining strong working relationships with and among diverse groups of partners and stakeholders

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Job duties for this position require work in both field and office environments.  Field work takes place during all seasons and in all types of weather conditions.  The person in this position must be able to walk long distances, over uneven or difficult terrain; carry heavy loads (up to 25 lbs. or more); work safely in and near water, with exposure to insects and/or other environmental factors in the field; and exercise good judgement in terms of personal and team safety in field conditions.  Additionally, the person in this position must be able to work in close proximity to colleagues in an office environment and conduct him/herself in a professional manner with landowners, members of the public, volunteers, partners, and co-workers.  This is a full-time position consisting of 40 hours/week.

Licenses, Certificates & Other Requirements

• Current pesticide applicator’s license (with an aquatics endorsement); or willingness to obtain said license and endorsement.
• Valid Washington State driver’s license and ability to operate a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

Compensation & Benefits

You will have a monthly salary between $3,182 – $3,826 depending on qualifications and experience.  This is a full-time, non-exempt position.  Benefits include retirement, 100% of premiums paid for medical/dental/vision for you and your dependents as well as accrued paid sick leave, annual leave, 10 paid holidays per year, an ORCA card and a training budget.

Pierce Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and we make an effort to recruit people of color and individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply for open positions.

To Apply:

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Please fill out the form, attaching both a cover letter and resume complete with three (3) professional references.

Applications open until: July 28, 2017
Projected Start Date: September 1, 2017

Contact Information:

Jayme Gordon, Habitat Improvement and Environmental Education Director
253.845.9770
jaymeg@piercecd.org