Job Description: The Rhode Island Natural History Survey (RINHS) seeks to hire a Field Technician to provide support to the Forest Health Works Project (FHWP). The project will survey for & control invasive plants affecting ecological values, including forest health, in RI. With field assistants, & in close coordination with cooperating agencies, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders, the Field Technician will 1) carry out rapid surveys of large forest areas in Rhode Island for invasive plants, 2) develop natural resource reports and recommendations for inventoried areas based on principles of ecology and natural resource management, & 3) supervise eradication and restoration regimens conducted by contracted labor. The Technician will participate in other RINHS programs & tasks from time to time.
Qualifications: •A degree (Master's preferred) in natural sciences or a related field and significant prior experience and familiarity with forest ecosystems & botany, including invasive species; •Familiarity with the plant species and forest communities of southern New England; •Significant relevant field experience, including familiarity with the conditions and requirements for safe, effective work in rugged outdoor conditions; •Demonstrated ability to work systematically towards goals using independent initiative as well as by working collaboratively with partners and peers; •Strong organizational skills, strong writing skills, and an ability to work to deadlines; •Demonstrated competence with georeferencing equipment, GIS software, and equipment; •Demonstrated experience with invasive plant treatment techniques (familiarity with herbicides and regulations is a plus but pesticide applicators license is not required); •Experience supervising field assistants, student interns, contractors or equivalent; •Familiarity with plant restoration techniques (planting, seed collection, propagation, etc.) is a plus; •A valid driver's license & automobile (mileage reimbursed); •Able to start immediately This is a fieldwork position. The Field Technician is required to undertake substantial physical exertion and/or physical strain, sometimes in remote locations, difficult terrain, and inclement weather. Work environment involves exposure to job hazards where there is a possibility of injury and/or arthropod-borne disease. The Field Technician will be based in the RINHS office in Kingston, but will travel extensively throughout RI. Pay is $16-18hr depending on experience. This is a part-time, 12 month position averaging 20 hrs per week, with longer hours in the summer and short hours in the winter. It is not eligible for fringe benefits. This position is funded by a grant under the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 through the U.S. Forest Service. The Field Technician reports to the Forest Ecosystem Project Coordinator. RINHS is a private non-profit environmental science membership organization (see www.rinhs.org). RINHS is an equal opportunity employer, women & minorities are encouraged to apply. Review of applications will begin Feb 22nd, and continue until the position is filled. To apply, email a cover letter, resume, and the names and contact information, including email and phone number, of three persons whom RINHS may contact regarding your experience and qualifications to Kira Stillwell programad...@rinhs.org
