Invasive Species Research Associate (USFWS, Klamath Basin Refuge Complex)

The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with US Fish and Wildlife Specialist Klamath Basin Refuge Complex is recruiting 1 Invasive Species Research Associate. The positions will be based at our headquarters on the Tule Lake NWR office at 4009 Hill Road, CA, 96134. The majority of work will be performed at Tule Lake and Lower Klamath NWRs, however day trips to the other 4 Complex Refuges will also occur regularly.

The Invasive Species Research Associate will survey and treat invasive species primarily at Lower Klamath and Tulelake NWRs, with occasional work at Clear Lake, Bear Valley, Upper Klamath, and Klamath Marsh NWRs.

This position has five main components, 1) mapping and treating a new EDRR invasion of yellow flag iris on Tule Lake NWR and 2) managing and treating invasive species around a newly constructed visitor center, 3) assisting with restoration and invasive species removal on a wildfire restoration area 4) assisting IPM staff with invasive species monitoring and treatment at all 6 wildlife refuges and 5) assisting the biology staff with capture, tagging, and monitoring of a variety of wildlife species including waterfowl, yellow rail, sage grouse, sandhill cranes, grasshoppers, and vegetation surveys.

Specific duties include:

• Map and treat Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) invasive species.
• Use GIS based hardware and software to map invasive species in the field.
• Use a variety of treatment equipment including boom mounted UTVs, backpack sprayers, and mechanical equipment such as shovels, mowers, and clippers.
• Track treatments and locations with GIS based equipment.
• Accurate recordkeeping of all field activities and data entry into provided databases.
• Routine equipment maintenance and repair of vehicles, tools, and treatment equipment.
• Assist with other biological work (e.g. waterfowl banding, vegetation surveys), and other Refuge work (e.g. public outreach) as opportunities and interest allows.

Work is performed outdoors in rugged terrain which may include steep, wet, muddy, rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces. The position requires physical exertions, such as, bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, and similar activities. Incumbent should be capable of carrying up to 30 lb. packs for long durations including backpack sprayers while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE) in extreme temperatures. Individual should be capable of working alone or with others, during the early morning hours, night, or during the day. Other miscellaneous office duties may be required. Biological monitoring often includes work in watercraft such as airboats, working overnight or early mornings and working long hours in both cold and hot environments.

Contract Timeline

• 26 week appointment beginning in Apr 1, 2025
• Full-time; 40 hrs wk.

Location:

The positions will be based at our headquarters on the Tule Lake NWR office at 4009 Hill Road, CA, 96134.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Wage: $18.96/hr.
• Paid leave and holidays
• Access to Prodeals
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance available at no cost

• Applicants must be pursuing or have acquired a degree in wildlife biology, zoology, ecology, botany, or related field, or have equivalent specialized experience.
• Ability to identify native and non-native plants in northern California and southern Oregon.
• Ability to work independently and in small and large groups as part of a team.
• Ability to navigate to field sites using hand-held GPS devices and smart phone maps.
• Experience with tablet data collection and experience with Collector/Field Maps or other databases
• Willingness to assist with invasive plant management using herbicide treatments and mechanical/manual methods.
• Experience with the routine equipment maintenance and repair of vehicles, tools, and treatment equipment.
• Possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Must be motivated, self- directed, organized, and detail oriented in order to balance multiple tasks simultaneously.
• A California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) Applicator license or certificate is not required but would be beneficial

TO APPLY

Please submit an up-to-date resume, a one-page cover letter that details your interest in the position, and any qualifications not fully outlined in your resume, and contact information for three professional references. Qualified applicants will be contacted to schedule an interview. For questions regarding this position, please contact vcoccia@gbinstitute.org

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the organization's ongoing needs.