Wetland Technician

It’s a great time to join the City of Boulder!

Application Deadline:

February 18, 2025

Compensation Details:

Full Pay Range

Generally, the hiring range is from the minimum up to 80% of the range.This is a full-time hourly position.

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Benefit Eligibility Group:

Seasonal Traditional

Locate the Benefit Eligibility Group value on the Employee Benefit Eligibility document to identify the benefits offered for this job.

Job Description Summary:

Under general supervision, the Wetland Technicians will work as a team to assist the Wetland and Riparian Ecology Program in field-based data collection and monitoring aimed at understanding the extent, location, and condition of wetland and riparian areas on OSMP lands. This position is supported by an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Wetland Program Development Grant. The primary role of the Wetland Technician is to conduct field work (85-90%), including quantitative vegetation sampling, plant identification, and collecting soil and water quality data to assess wetland condition. Additional indoor responsibilities (10-15%) may include managing equipment, preparing maps, data entry and QA/QC, and assisting with related research, analysis, reporting and related duties as required. This job demands sustained focus, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. The position provides opportunities to learn about wetland and riparian ecosystems, local wetland flora, and to collaborate with researchers and resource managers in our outdoor laboratory.

Job Description:

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES   

Wetland Condition Assessments

• Visit National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) mapped wetland polygons to conduct a wetland assessment using the Colorado Natural Heritage Program’s Ecological Integrity Assessment, collect quantitative vegetation data, use field indicators of hydric soils developed by the Natural Resource Conservation Service and a Munsell soil-color chart to describe wetland soils, and collect water quality and algae samples.

• Use ArcGIS field apps and mobile data collection software to navigate to mapped wetland and riparian polygons, and meticulously record, review, and manage data and photographs.

• Manage field equipment and prepare maps for fieldwork using ArcGIS.

• Attend all relevant trainings.

• Comfortably operate 4X4 vehicle on rough roads and navigate off-trail to site locations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to demonstrate experience with aerial photography, navigating with a topographic map, and use of GPS.

• Ability to demonstrate experience with wetland plant identification and use of a dichotomous key and/or wetland monitoring equivalent to two full field seasons or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Ability to perform work with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy, to follow detailed field monitoring protocols and to meticulously organize and maintain data and equipment.

• Ability to walk, hike, stand, bend, and kneel in an outdoor environment for long periods of time under a variety of weather conditions. Ability to carry up to 25 pounds while hiking on rough terrain while maintaining a positive attitude.

• Knowledge of wetland ecology and experience working in wetlands and/or riparian areas and familiarity with the Cowardin Wetland Classification System.

• Skills exhibiting self-motivation, with ability to work and communicate effectively as part of a team and to work safely with limited supervision.

• Skills in ArcGIS software, including ArcGIS Online, ArcMap, and ArcGIS field applications.

• Skills exhibiting proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Access).

• Valid Driver’s License and ability to maintain an acceptable motor vehicle record.

• Have and maintain acceptable background information, including criminal conviction history.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to correctly identify Rocky Mountain front Range plants and/or the ability to use a dichotomous plant identification key to identify wetland and riparian vegetation. Effective problem-solving skills and the ability to organize and execute multiple activities and priorities.

• Knowledge and experience with wetland and riparian ecology, preferably in the Western High Plains and/or Rocky Mountain Front Range Foothills ecosystems.

• Skills exhibiting excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Bachelor’s degree in wetland ecology, riparian ecology, natural resource management, ecology, botany, biology, hydrology, environmental science, water resources, or related field.

• Two (2) years of work experience in the field of wetland or riparian ecology.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPEREINCE

• Coursework in botany, ecology, natural resources, range management, or related field.

• Two (2) field seasons of experience collecting scientific data, specifically vegetation sampling, soil profile descriptions, water quality sampling, and/or other environmental data.

SUPERVISION

       Supervision Received : Senior Wetland and Riparian Ecologist

       Supervision Exercised: None

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• Physical and Mental Effort: Sufficient vision or other powers of observation that permit the employee to observe detailed plant characteristics up-close and to review, evaluate and prepare a variety of written and electronic documents. Sufficient manual dexterity to use fine motor skills to record or observe data.

• Work Environment: Potential exposure to dangerous wildlife (e.g., rattlesnakes, mountain lions, stinging insects), toxic plants or chemicals (e.g., pesticides), and dangerous weather conditions (e.g., heat, cold, extreme wind, lightning). Hiking in wet muddy conditions and/or crossing wadeable streams. Employees must navigate working landscapes where livestock and barbed wire fencing are encountered

• Machines and Equipment Used: Hand-held electronic equipment and standard office or equipment. Operation of a 4x4 vehicle on potentially rough roads.

Additional Job Description:

last updated 1/24/25

The City of Boulder is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected statute. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, please send a request to riskmanagement@bouldercolorado.gov.