Seasonal Invasive Species Technician

Seasonal Stewardship Technician

Position Description

Reports to: Conservation and Stewardship Director and LSC CISMA Director

Position Status: Seasonal. This is a time-limited, seasonal position that follows the schedule outlined below. Schedule: This position will not exceed 1,500 hours, beginning on or before March 1, 2026, through October 30, 2026. Hours may be worked full-time until the 1,500-hour limit is reached or part-time to extend the season. Typical hours of operation are MondayFriday, 8:15 a.m.–4:15 p.m. Occasional evening or weekend hours may be required. Schedule and hour distribution will be agreed upon between the Technician and supervisor(s).

Benefits: Seasonal employees are eligible for paid sick leave in accordance with Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) at a rate of one hour for every thirty hours worked. Additional benefits are not available to seasonal employees.

Position Summary

The Seasonal Stewardship Technician supports hands-on land management, stewardship, and invasive species control activities for Six Rivers Land Conservancy and the Lake St. Clair Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (LSC CISMA). This is a highly fieldbased position involving work across southeastern Michigan, including Oakland, Macomb, Lapeer, Genesee, St. Clair, and Wayne counties, in landscapes ranging from wetlands and forests to privately held properties and conservation preserves.

The position includes operation of field vehicles and trailers, use of powered equipment, herbicide application, and sustained, physically demanding outdoor work across diverse landscapes. Field activities are conducted using science-informed practices with a strong emphasis on ecological integrity, native habitat restoration, and effective stewardship outcomes. The Seasonal Stewardship Technician works collaboratively with Six Rivers staff, CISMA staff, municipal partners, volunteers, and community members and may assist with community outreach, education initiatives, and property owner interactions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Stewardship and Invasive Species Field Work (80%)

• Perform stewardship and invasive species management activities using manual and mechanical removal methods consistent with ecological best practices, including brushcutters, chainsaws, backpack sprayers, hand tools, and other powered equipment

• Participate in ecological restoration activities such as seed collection, brush clearing, and habitat maintenance • Support early detection and rapid response efforts

• Conduct invasive species monitoring using standardized protocols, GPS units, and data collection tools

• Assist with herbicide application following required training and certification

• Maintain accurate treatment records and assist with reporting, permitting, and compliance documentation • Operate trucks, trailers, and utility vehicles, including backing and maneuvering in varied and confined conditions

• Inspect, clean, and perform basic maintenance on vehicles and equipment

• Conduct physically demanding work including lifting, hauling, dragging, and working on uneven terrain for extended periods

• Follow all Six Rivers safety protocols and applicable regulations

Outreach and Program Support (20%)

• Assist with landowner outreach, including site visits and communications

• Participate in community engagement efforts such as workshops, tabling events, and educational programs that promote ecological stewardship and conservation awareness

• Interact professionally with landowners, volunteers, partners, and community members

• Assist with social media content, outreach materials, and public information as assigned

• May support other administrative needs as assigned

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to safely operate and maintain vehicles, trailers, and powered field equipment

• Ability to perform physically demanding work involving tools and herbicide use

• Knowledge of or willingness to learn invasive species identification and integrated pest management

• Understanding of or interest in ecological systems, native plant communities, and habitat restoration principles

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining safety standards

• Basic proficiency with GPS units, data collection tools, and computer applications

• Willingness to work flexible schedules, including occasional evenings or weekends

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, environmental science, ecology, land management, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience

• Minimum of one year of experience in conservation fieldwork, land management, invasive species control, ecology, restoration, natural resources management, landscaping, or related work

• Possession of or willingness to obtain Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification

• Willingness to obtain Red Cross First Aid/CPR certification

• Valid Michigan driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record and ability to pass background checks

• Reliable transportation and willingness to transport equipment

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable law.

• Ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work in varied and inclement weather

• Ability to traverse uneven terrain, wetlands, forested areas, steep slopes, and off-trail environments

• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 pounds

• Ability to perform repetitive motions and sustained physical activity using hand and powered tools

• Ability to load and unload equipment

• Ability to remain stationary for administrative or computer-based tasks as needed

Work Environment & Outdoor Conditions

This position is primarily field-based and involves regular work outdoors in variable weather and environmental conditions. Schedules may be adjusted as needed. Travel to field sites, partner facilities, and meetings is required; mileage reimbursement may apply. Office time is provided for meetings and documentation. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

Required PPE, training, and safety protocols will be provided and must be followed at all times. Seasonal Stewardship Technicians should expect work to occur in or include:

• Heat, cold, rain, wind, snow, and/or high humidity when conditions are deemed safe

• Uneven or undeveloped terrain including wetlands, wooded areas, tall vegetation, and steep slopes

• Seasonal outdoor hazards such as insects, ticks, poison ivy, and similar conditions

• Remote or limited-access locations

• Roadside and public-use areas requiring situational awareness