What are the responsibilities and job description for the Invasive Species Technician position at Department of Forestry?
Title: Invasive Species Technician
State Role Title: Agricultural Specialist I
Hiring Range: $20.00-$25.00 per hour DOE
Pay Band: 2
Agency: Department of Forestry
Location: Charlottesville, Nat Resrcs Dr
Agency Website: www.dof.virginia.gov
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
Job Duties
The Virginia Department of Forestry is seeking an Invasive Species Technician to assist with botanical survey work in Virginia’s forests. This is a grant-funded, part-time position, not to exceed 1,500 hours per year with the majority of the work occurring in the summer. The role is primarily field based at Matthews State Forest in Galax, VA. The position is remote but will work closely with DOF’s Forest Health Program. All travel expenses incurred by the technician will be reimbursed. Duties include: conducting botanical surveys of state forests and state-owned land while searching for non-native invasive plants, collecting data in the field and organizing online databases. The technician will also assist with invasive plant treatment projects.
Minimum Qualifications
- Experience identifying the flora of Virginia to species, including understory and canopy species
- Ability to navigate using maps and GPS
- Ability to communicate effectively and take comprehensive observational notes
- Ability to work independently and conduct surveys alone in remote locations
- Ability to hike 5-10 miles daily on foot across different types of forested and rough terrain
- Experience with and ability to use a PC and Microsoft Office software
- Possession of valid Virginia Driver’s License or equivalent
Additional Considerations
- Coursework related to forestry, dendrology, field botany, or plant taxonomy
- Experience using ArcGIS and digital mapping tools
- Experience identifying and managing invasive plants in natural areas
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
- Must be able to obtain a Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators Permit within 6 months of employment (training provided)
- Must pass moderate work capacity test (two mile walk in 30 minutes with 25 pound pack)
Contact Information
Name: Kristina Clore
Phone: 434-529-7244
Email: kristina.clore@dof.virginia.gov
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.
Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer
Salary : $20 - $25
