This position will perform a wide range of duties in support of the District’s invasive species management program.  The incumbent will assist with planning and contractor oversight for the District’s invasive plant control operations in natural areas, primarily onsite coordination with ground-based herbicide applicators.

In addition to providing technical oversight of invasive species management projects, the incumbent will provide contract management support including reviewing contractor deliverables, tracking purchase orders, and planning/monitoring budgets. Provide technical assistance to other District staff regarding invasive plant management, including herbicide usage, control strategies, and database management.  Participate on various interagency teams coordinating invasive species management. This position reports to the Senior Supervising Scientist of the STA and Invasive Species Management Section.

Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to plan and manage heavy workloads; enthusiasm; a temperament for dealing with harsh field conditions; and a willingness and commitment to actively contribute to a collaborative team work effort.

Field experience with invasive plant species identification, monitoring, control, and management is preferred.  Knowledge of South Florida ecosystems and their flora—both native and non-native—is required.

Licenses:
Valid State of Florida Driver’s License.

Possession or ability to acquire within 180 days State of Florida pesticide applicators license with Natural Areas certification.

Airboat experience preferred.  District airboat certification will be required within 180 days.

Employment Guidelines
Typically has a Bachelor’s Degree in Agronomy, Biology, Botany, Conservation Biology, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, Weed Science (or relevant field) and 2+ years’ experience in the area of applied ecology and management of invasive and/or nuisance species in aquatic and terrestrial natural areas.

Physical Requirements/Working Environment
The work environment is a combination independent field and office work, with regular exposure to a hot and humid environment in remote natural areas, with exposure to stinging/biting insects, snakes, and alligators.  May be required to lift up to 40 lbs.

Due to the District’s response role and in the total scope of emergency management, this position may at times, be required to provide support before, during and after major storm events and emergency situations, such as hurricanes or other declared emergencies, depending on assigned emergency response role.