Botanist Field Technician

We are hiring a Botany Field Crew!

MSA Environmental is a worker owned consulting cooperative that supports critical area habitat and sensitive species surveys and monitoring across the Pacific Northwest. We have a unique opportunity in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest to conduct a botanical field survey documenting Special Status (Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive) plant species, as well as invasive plant species, covering approximately 1,641 acres. The fieldwork will be completed by a crew of four botanists and will take place between May and mid-August. We estimate that it will require up to 28 field days spread out over six weeks, with pre-fieldwork preparations and meetings beginning in mid-May/early-June. 

We are looking for Field Technicians and/or Junior Technicians

Job Title: Botanist – Field Technician or Junior Technician

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, On-Call / Project-Based
Reports to: Project Manager & Field Supervisor/Lead Botanist

Wages: $25-$32 per hour DOE. Per Diem included for meals and lodging

Location: Coles Corner, WA; Clear Creek and Snowbrush Fuel Break Areas (above Lake Wenatchee)

Summary: The Botanist – Field Technician will conduct field-based presence/absence surveys for a multi-acre plant study, focusing on identifying Threatened, Endangered, Sensitive, and invasive plant species (including vascular and non-vascular plants). This role involves following established Forest Service protocols, documenting and mapping target species locations, and providing ecological descriptions. The Technician will work collaboratively in a crew of four, always in pairs, to collect accurate data for regulatory compliance, permitting, and project planning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work effectively as part of a field team under direction of a Lead Botanist or Project Manager
• Conduct field surveys to identify and document Threatened, Endangered, Sensitive, and invasive plant species using the USFS “Intuitive Controlled Method” and protocols (2014 USFS Survey Protocol and Element of Occurrence Field Guides)
• Navigate to and within remote field sites using maps, GPS, and compass
• Assist with daily field logistics, including equipment preparation and site access coordination
• Identify native and non-native plant species in a variety of habitats with timing based on elevation and season
• Delineate and map plant populations using GPS and field mapping tools
• Record field data accurately and consistently in accordance with project protocols
• Document site conditions, habitat characteristics, and associated vegetation communities
• Maintain field equipment and ensure proper use and care

• Maintain awareness of applicable species lists and regulatory updates

Minimum Qualifications – Field Technician

• Successfully completed four (4) upper division science college credits in vascular or non-vascular plant taxonomy or participation in professional workshops in vascular or non-vascular species identification can be counted for credit (32 workshop hours equals one quarter credit hour)
• Training and experience with field techniques for surveying and locating Special Status vascular and non-vascular plants with the ability to use technical dichotomous flora and botanical keys of central Washington floristic ecoregions.
• Ability to navigate in rough country using maps, compass, and GPS unit and the ability to use digital camera.
• Ability to complete all required report / data-collection forms following established protocols and data collection standards.

Minimum Qualifications – Junior Technician

• Applicants that meet the upper division science credit requirement listed above, but need more training or experience listed in bullets 2-4, may apply as a Jr. Technician/Trainee.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with USFS “Intuitive Controlled Survey Method”
• Experience with rare plant (vascular and non-vascular) species identification
• Familiarity with federal and state regulations (e.g., ESA, state-listed species protections)
• Experience with GPS/GIS data collection and mapping
• Experience with fieldwork and traversing rough terrain
• First Aid/CPR certification

Skills & Abilities

• Strong plant identification skills and attention to detail including using technical dichotomous flora and botanical keys for central WA floristic regions
• Ability to work efficiently and accurately in field settings, navigating rough country using maps, compasses, and GPS
• Using a digital camera
• Clear and professional communication with team members
• Ability to follow direction while working independently in the field
• Strong organizational and data management skills
• Must have a functioning personal smartphone and be willing to use it in the field
• Must have access to reliable personal transport to rendezvous at specified location with MSA vehicle for fieldwork

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in outdoor environments in variable weather conditions
• Ability to walk long distances (up to several miles) on uneven terrain
• Ability to carry field equipment (up to 25–40 lbs.)
• Ability to bend, crouch, and work in dense vegetation
• Willingness to work in wet, muddy, or otherwise challenging field conditions

Work Environment

This position involves frequent fieldwork in remote and natural environments, including forests, and disturbed sites. Work may require early mornings, long field days, and travel to project sites.