Vegetation Control Technician

Vegetation Control Technician - Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii

To apply visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/

POSITION
A temporary non-student hourly Vegetation Control Technician position is available with the Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) protecting endangered plants and their habitats. This position is located at Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA), Hawaii. Temporary positions cannot exceed 9-months, but opportunities for permanent positions regularly become available during or after a temporary assignment, depending upon employee performance.
ORGANIZATION
The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands is a research, education and service unit within the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU). CEMML applies the latest and most appropriate science to promote the sustainable management of natural and cultural resources on Department of Defense (DOD) and other public lands. We provide technical support, conduct applied research, and offer career development and learning opportunities to support resource stewardship. We collaborate with our sponsors and within CSU to resolve complex environmental issues, leaving a legacy of science-based decisions that sustain our resources for future generations.
To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management, our mission, vision, and values, visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/.
LOCATION
Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA) on the Big Island of Hawaii is a 132,000-acre Army training facility located at 2,500-8,800 feet elevation in the saddle region between the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Vegetation Control Technician will provide technical assistance to the Army Natural Resources Program at the Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, by managing invasive weeds and fuels to protect endangered and threatened species. Job duties include, but are not limited to:
• Handle and mix herbicides using provided operation and safety guidance.
• Mechanically and chemically control invasive weeds near endangered and threatened plant species.
• Remove live and dead vegetation (fuels) and prevent re-growth along a system of firebreaks and fuel breaks to prevent the spread of wildland fire for protection of federally listed species.
• Use GPS mobile data devices to navigate to sites, collect data, and survey transects for invasive plant management operations.
• Maintain and troubleshoot field gear and equipment such as gas-powered pumps, backpack sprayers, line trimmers and chainsaws.
• Conduct regular cleaning and maintenance of work vehicles, workspaces, and base yard.
• Participate in overnight camping at remote work sites up to 3 nights at a time.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate must demonstrate U.S. employment eligibility; CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position. All candidates must meet the following minimum qualifications:
• Ability to identify plants and distinguish between native, non-native, and invasive target plants
Vegetation Control Technician
Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii
• Ability to use field gear and equipment such as gas-powered pumps, backpack sprayers, line trimmers, etc.
• Ability to collect accurate and consistent data
• Demonstrated ability to hike for 4-6 hours while carrying 40 lbs.
• Must have or be able to obtain a valid State of Hawaii driver’s license prior to start date
• Have a State of Hawaii Commercial Pesticide Applicator certification or ability to pass applicator exam and obtain within 3 months of employment. Must maintain Hawaii State Pesticide Applicator’s certification throughout employment.
• Ability to work as an effective team member and contributor
• Demonstrated work ethic and ability to work safely
Physical requirements include the ability to conduct repetitive actions; eye, hand, feet coordination; occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, balancing, stooping, kneeling, and crouching; and the ability to repetitively lift 50 lbs. and to walk several miles a day over rough lava terrain.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
• B.A. or B.S. in natural resources, botany, biology, or related field OR relevant coursework
• Experience identifying and managing invasive weeds around endangered and threatened plants on Hawaii Island
• Experience working around and ability to identify rare plants in Hawaii
• State of Hawaii Commercial Pesticide Applicator certification for Category 2 Forest Pest Control
• Chain saw certification/training
• Basic Aviation Safety/Sling Load certification
• Experience working on a military installation
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance CSU’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. CSU is an EO/EA/AA employer.
BACKGROUND CHECK
Colorado State University is committed to providing a safe and productive learning and living community. To achieve that goal, we conduct background investigations for all final candidates being considered for employment. Background checks may include, but are not limited to, criminal history, national sex offender search and motor vehicle history.
VACCINE STATUS REPORTING
Colorado State University has mandated vaccinations against COVID-19. Faculty and staff (including hourly employees) are required to submit their vaccine status or declare an exemption. More information about the vaccination mandate can be found on the CSU COVID-19 Information & Resources site here (https://covid.colostate.edu).
SALARY
Hourly pay rate is $20.00. Continuation of the position is dependent on continued funding from the sponsor for natural resource management at Pohakuloa Training Area.
BENEFITS
Non-student hourly employees accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to a maximum of 48 hours per year. They are not eligible for other paid time off such as vacation or paid holidays. They may be eligible for health insurance if criteria are met.
APPLICATION
Prospective candidates should email application materials to Breana Milldrum, Vegetation Control Supervisor at Breana.milldrum@colostate.edu. Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications in the announcement to be considered for hire. Position will be open until filled. Include each of the items below as a Word Document (.doc) or PDF (.pdf). Please note that incomplete applications cannot be
considered. Please remove social security numbers and birthdates from application materials. A complete application consists of:
1) Cover Letter
2) Resume
3) References (contact information for 3 professional references, including at least one supervisor)