A Forest or Conservation Technician works with foresters and conservation scientists to help maintain forests and natural areas. Tracks data on water, soil, disease and insect damage in forest areas; tracks wildlife and maintain trails or campsites; monitors timber and logging activity; patrols and assists with forest fire prevention measures; provides information to the public on forest or natural areas conservation .
Sun Valley Resort is seeking a Land Stewardship Technician , a highly motivated outdoor professional to support our land stewardship initiatives. The land stewardship technician will lead efforts in reducing invasive species spread and promote native species and habit restoration. This role involves developing a comprehensive holistic and hand-on approach to addressing invasive species.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Complete an invasive species inventory and develop a comprehensive map and plan of invasive species infestation using GIS, Avenza Maps or ArcMap.
Treatment and Removal:
Develop and implement a comprehensive invasive species removal plan that incorporates herbicide application, biological control methods, and manual and mechanical removal within an integrated pest management (IPM) framework. Develop and implement restoration projects- reestablishing native plants to outcompete invasive species, native species seed collection and propagation, etc. Monitor restoration sites to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and restoration strategies. Document ecological changes over time. Retreat. Upload documentation and track findings from treatment to restoration. Record, track and report. Herbicide application and documentation, equipment maintenance, inventory of supplies, and any other duties assigned. Coordinate with city, county, state and federal programs on invasive species and restoration initiatives. Ensure safe, proper and effective application of herbicides. Safely mixes, maintains, and calibrates herbicides and pesticides for use. Respond to public inquiries related to noxious weed control. Provide exceptional customer service to all customers at all times. Assist the grounds team with routine maintenance and resort wide upkeep.
Qualifications :
A background (experience or education) in botany, biology, natural resource management, environmental science, or a related field. State certification as a professional applicator preferred. Or the ability to obtain a state pesticide applicator license. Ability to work with mathematical concepts and apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to apply them to practical situations. Ability to read and interpret business and technical materials, write reports and correspondence. A valid driver's license and experience operating 4WD vehicles, ATV, trailers, UTV's, tractors, mowers, chainsaws, string trimmers, etc. Physically fit to carry up to 50 lbs while hiking over uneven terrain, bending, and digging. Strong plant identification skills and knowledge of local plant communities. Experience with GPS/GIS technology for data collection and mapping. Ability to work independently and safely in field settings under adverse conditions Motivated, strong work ethic, passion for the outdoors, and ability to work independently or as part of a team.
