https://www.thegreatbasininstitute.org/job/invasive-plant-survey-mapping-and-treatment-technician-winnemucca-nv/
The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Winnemucca District Office, is recruiting two Research Associates to perform botanical surveys for invasive and noxious weeds in support of the vegetation management program on the district. The primary duties for this position include: treating noxious weed populations by hand or through chemical application of herbicides; inventorying BLM lands for noxious weed populations; and mapping treatment areas and plant populations. The majority of this work is conducted using a 4WD spray truck across remote 4WD roads and by hiking cross-country over rough and uneven terrain with backpack sprayers and other tools. Some camping may be required (up to 15 nights per season). Training at the beginning of the field season will include invasive plant and noxious weed identification, herbicide safety (including applicator certification), other technical training, 4WD operation, and first aid. Location: The BLM Winnemucca District (WD) encompasses roughly 11 million acres, of which 7.38 million acres are public lands managed by the BLM. Elevations range from approximately 4,000 feet to close to 10,000 feet. Winnemucca is located in northwestern Nevada, nested in the basin and range province of the western U.S. The WD is approximately 2.5 hours northeast of Reno, NV and 2 hours west of Elko, NV on I-80, and 5.5 hours south of Boise, ID on State Highway 95. Timeline: mid-March - September 2016 (28 weeks) Compensation: • Wage: $15.25/hour • Health Insurance • Paid holidays and personal leave • Camping per diem: $15.00 Qualifications: Technical requirements: • Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management or related discipline; • Knowledge of and interest in botany and plant identification; • Experience with invasive plant management, desirable; • Willingness to utilize chemical herbicide treatment methods, and ability to pass Nevada State Applicator exam; • Experience utilizing hand-held GPS units and/or tablets for navigation and data collection, and basic computer skills; • Ability to carry a backpack sprayer up to 40 pounds, and otherwise maintain good physical condition; • Experience operating 4WD trucks on and off-road, including mountain roads; • Knowledge and experience in operating off-highway vehicles, which might include a Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV), desirable; and • Experience with towing and backing a trailer, desirable. Additional requirements: • Ability to self-direct and self-motivate; • Willingness to learn and apply proper and safe methods to store, mix and use herbicides; • Ability to read and follow material safety data sheet and herbicide labels; • Possess good organizational skills; • Tolerant of working in variable weather conditions, willing and able to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions, and able to hike 2-5+ miles daily on uneven terrain; • Ability to work productively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals and follow safe working practices; • Communicate effectively with a diverse public; • Other vegetation management duties as assigned; and • Possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record. • Successful applicants must complete a Department of Interior (DOI) Background Investigation (BI) or submit paperwork to BLM human resources indicating an active and fully adjudicated BI has already been completed prior to beginning the position. How to Apply: Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, their résumé, and a list of three professional references to [email protected]. Please write “WDO Nox Weeds” in your email subject line. Please include where you found this position posted. Incomplete applications will not be considered. No phone inquiries, please. The Great Basin Institute conforms to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit Retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.
