Invasive Species Strike Team Technician

About the Catskill Center Founded in 1969, the Catskill Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that preserves a enriches the environmental, economic, and cultural well-being of the Catskill region. We believe that the vitality and prosperity of the Catskills depend on robust collaboration, thriving local communities, and the wise stewardship of our natural resources. To learn more, visit www.catskillcenter.org. The Catskill Center serves as the host organization for the Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP), one of eight Partnerships for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISMs) in New York. The mission of CRISP is to promote education, prevention, early detection, and control of invasive species to limit their impact on the ecosystems and economies of the Catskills.

Job Overview

We are seeking four motivated and reliable Invasive Species Strike Team Technicians to join us in controlling invasive species throughout the Catskills this season:

Two Aquatic Strike Team Technicians and two Terrestrial Strike Team Technicians.

These seasonal Technicians are anticipated to work 37.5 hours/week from mid-May to mid-August.

The Terrestrial Strike Team will focus control efforts on terrestrial plants
and animals. The Aquatic Strike Team will focus efforts in and around lakes, rivers, and streams, working from boats or shore in waders or similar gear. All equipment is supplied, but Strike Teams will need to transport equipment and gear to field site including kayaks, as appropriate. Training is provided.

The Aquatic Strike Team will be supervised by the CRISP Aquatic Invasive Species Manager, and the Terrestrial Strike Team will be supervised by the CRISP Terrestrial Invasive Species Manager.

All Strike Team Technicians will be based in Arkville, NY, where they will complete some office work and there may be some opportunities to perform work remotely. However, most days the Technicians will be outdoors in remote environments with minimal facilities available. Frequent travel throughout the Catskills region will be required. Technicians may have the option to stay overnight at some management sites.

Job Responsibilities

All Strike Team Technicians will:

• Accurately identify, survey, and map invasive plants and animals
• Conduct chemical and/or mechanical invasive species removals
• Assist CRISP colleagues with surveys and/or management where needed
• Keep accurate, timely, and detailed records of activities
• Assist with creation and upkeep of end-of-season maps and reports
• Properly use and care for tools and equipment, including appropriate cleaning
• Follow all relevant safety precautions, including tool safety, safe boating practices, and any active COVID-19 safety protocols
• Work with CRISP staff to plan and co-lead invasive species removal volunteer days, and train volunteers on invasive species identification and removal techniques
• Educate the public about invasive species
• Other duties as assigned

The Terrestrial Strike Team Technicians will use ArcGIS Online and FieldMaps for collecting and quality-checking spatial data. Terrestrial Strike Team Technicians will also plant native trees and shrubs and maintain ecological restoration areas.

Minimum Requirements

Required Qualifications

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and have access

to a reliable vehicle with ability to transport equipment and gear to field site

Additional requirements include:

• Ability to hike up to 4 miles carrying up to 30 lbs. over steep, uneven terrain
• Ability to remain outdoors with minimal access to facilities and no cell service for eight hours at a time
• Video conferencing ability for remote training and remote work
• Ability to work independently
• Demonstrated team-working and communication skills
• Ability to use and/or willingness to learn new web and mobile applications, GIS software and/or GPS devices
• Willingness and ability to pass a background check
• Aquatic Strike Team Technicians must also be comfortable on open water

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to identify invasive species
• Previous boating experience & ability to swim (Aquatic Strike Team only)
• Previous ArcGIS Online experience
• Prior experience managing invasive species
• Knowledge of natural resources management, ecology, or related field
• Passion for the environment and the Catskills