Seasonal Invasive Species Technician

Gladwin jobshiringnearme.org District is hiring two Seasonal Invasive Species Technicians to support the Central Michigan Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area by performing botanical surveys of terrestrial, aquatic, and emergent plant communities, while supporting invasive species outreach across five counties including: Midland, Clare, Gratiot, Gladwin, and Isabella.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct botanical surveys on foot or kayak/canoe on public and private lands
• Collect field data using datasheets, GPS units, hand- drawn field maps, and the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) phone app or website.
• Assist with the development of invasive species inventory maps and management plans related to invasive species found during botanical surveys.
• Perform property listing searches using reference maps, and consult with county equalization departments, online and in person, to determine land ownership and contact information.
• Obtain property owner permissions to enter private property for the purpose of conducting botanical surveys.
• Promote CM-CISMA landowner assistance programs through personal contact during site visits and through participation in outreach activities, and by phone/email/direct-mail as follow-up
• Participate in outreach activities that promote the CM-CISMA with the coordinator or partners of the CM-CISMA
• Enter data into the online MISIN Treatment Tracking geo-database.
• Participate in CM-CISMA partner projects that may involve botanical invasive species removal, survey, construction of signs, etc.

Skills and Eligibility Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or working toward a degree in botany, conservation biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• experience identifying Michigan native and invasive botanical species
• Must exhibit strong verbal and written communication skills when working with any and all demographic groups
• Must hold a valid driver’s license, have a good driving record, and a reliable vehicle
• Must be comfortable to work outdoors in remote areas and on office projects
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite programs
• Experience with ArcGIS Online, and Survey 123 preferred.
• May be required to obtain a pesticide license, if not already obtained prior to employment.

Terms and Benefits:

• Pay Rate: $16-$18 per hour, based on experience
• This is for (2) full-time seasonal positions, working 32 hours (4 days) per week for up to 15 weeks *pending funding, some seasonal positions may be extended.
• Must be able to work flexible hours; workdays are generally 8 hour days, with occasional evenings and weekends required.
• Start date May 26th, 2026 (Flexible can start sooner or later if needed)

Seasonal employees are hired for temporary assignments not exceeding 120 days. Seasonal employees may work full-time hours but are not considered regular full-time employees for purposes of benefit eligibility. Seasonal employees are not eligible for employer-sponsored benefits, including health insurance, retirement, paid holidays, or vacation. Seasonal employees will accrue and may use earned sick time in accordance with Michigan law.

Other Considerations:

• Candidate must be comfortable working in all weather conditions including exposure to common insect pests and hazardous plants
• Travel using personal vehicle will be required, with mileage reimbursement at the federal rate of .725 cents per mile
• Must have experience piloting a kayak/canoe and know how to swim
• Must be willing to travel across the five-county area as needed to complete work assignments
• Will be working with chemicals such as herbicide on a regular basis