Review Vacancy
AgencyParks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, Office of
TitleAquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Strike Team Field Lead
Occupational CategoryNo Preference
Bargaining UnitISU - Institutional Services Unit (CSEA)
Salary RangeFrom $17.19 to $17.19 Hourly
Minimum Qualifications • Four-year degree in aquatic ecology, limnology, environmental studies, natural resource management, invasive species ecology or a related discipline such as conservation biology plus 1 year working in the field; or a combination of education and field experience where comparable knowledge and skills were acquired.
• One year or more of experience with invasive species identification and control methods.
• One year supervisory experience minimum.
• Excellent organizational skills in a field setting.
• Ability and enthusiasm for preforming manual labor outdoors in rough terrain in summer conditions.
• Experience delegating tasks, working in a team and being responsible for the safety of others.
• A working knowledge of GPS/GIS and ecological monitoring methods.
• Commitment to thorough data collection.
• Strong interest in and commitment to environmental stewardship and team-oriented approach to solving environmental challenges.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Proficiency with Microsoft applications.
Preferred Skills/Experience:
• Knowledge of native and invasive New York flora and fauna, including identification, habitat preferences, and, if invasive, removal methods.
• Leadership experience in a field setting.
• Experience in organizing and training of staff and volunteers.
• Solid writing, oral, communication and analytical skills.
• Strong problem solving skills.
• A working knowledge of the operation and maintenance of motor boats
• Boat Safety Certification (training required for those who do not already have it)
• Backcountry leadership, Leave No Trace knowledge NOLS or Outward Bound training a plus.
Duties Description Position Overview:
The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Strike Team Field Lead is a long-term seasonal position based out of Niagara Falls State Park in Niagara Falls, NY. This position is a member of the OPRHP invasive species management and water quality teams, which guides aquatic invasive species management related matters on a statewide basis in State Parks and Historic Sites through the OPRHP Division of Environmental Stewardship & Planning in Albany. Highlights include primary responsibility for the seasonal field staff, field work, logistics, project development, coordination and prioritization, invasive species related aquatic health issues, report writing, and extensive travel. Nearly all of these tasks involve communicating closely with other OPRHP staff and partners.
Strike Teams are a crucial component of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) statewide Invasive Species Management strategy. The AIS Strike Team performs surveys, manual and mechanical removals, and can expect to spend most of the summer traveling to State Parks along Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, the Niagara River, and the St. Lawrence River. Extensive overnight travel is required in the field season.
The AIS Strike Team Field Lead is responsible for planning weekly schedules with the Program Manager and reporting back progress at the end of the week, organizing daily activities, troubleshooting minor logistical and mechanical issues, keeping team members safe, ensuring accurate data collection, and working hard alongside crew members. The AIS Strike Team Field Lead is expected to be able to operate their crews independently with minimal day-to-day oversight.
NOTE: Frequent travel is required; during the field season (May-Nov) travel can occur up to 5 days/4 nights a week. Cost of travel, including per diem for food and hotel, is provided. Agency vehicle is available in field season.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
• Coordination, hiring and training of seasonal aquatic invasive species strike team crew
• Assist in development and prioritization of invasive species projects
• Work closely with seasonal staff regarding paperwork, logistics and data quality control.
• Participation in and supervision of manual and mechanical removal of invasive species, collection and submission of both paper and electronic field data
• Training of staff and volunteers on invasive species identification and control.
• Provide program office assistance, including paperwork management, office and file organization.
• Field work of a wide variety ranging from hiking to canoeing to operating a motor boat
• Statewide data management – GPS, GIS and iMap Invasives coordination/collaboration.
• Grant implementation and report writing
• Create reports and deliver presentations to a variety of audiences.
• Assist in authoring summary reports and program/Agency guidance documents
• Participate as a member of the agency invasive species management team.
• Contribute to the plans and activities of the statewide Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management network (PRISM)
• Collaborate with PRISM's, NY Natural Heritage Program, Soil & Water Conservation Districts, and other partners on invasive species priorities.
Additional Comments This is a long-term seasonal position. The position is from November 2017 – March 2020 with a possibility of extension pending funding.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Email Address Matthew.Brincka@parks.ny.gov
Address
Notes on ApplyingPlease email a letter of interest, resume and names and contact information for three professional references to Matthew.Brincka@parks.ny.gov by September 15th, 2017. Please insert the words “AIS Strike Team Lead” in the subject line.