You are viewing a preview of this job. Log in or register to view more details about this job.

Invasive Species Members - Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge

Summary
American Conservation Experience, a nonprofit Conservation Corps, in partnership with Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, is seeking Two Invasive Species Members to contribute to mapping and management of invasive species as well as other biological projects alongside Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge Staff.

For more information about ACE, please visit: www.usaconservation.org.

Start Date: June 2023
Estimated End Date: August 2023 (10 weeks later)
*a 10 week minimum commitment is required *

Location Details/Description: Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Basom, NY

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1958 primarily as a nesting, resting, feeding, and staging area for migratory waterfowl. The refuge’s goals are to provide high quality freshwater wetland migration stopover and breeding habitat; maintain the health and integrity of Oak Orchard Creek as well as its associated floodplain and wetlands; provide a diverse mix of grassland, shrubland and forested upland habitats; provide high quality recreation, education, interpretive, hunting, and fishing programs; and to enhance partnerships with local communities and organizations.

For more information about Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, please visit https://www.fws.gov/refuge/iroquois

Position Overview: Members will primarily assist with mapping and management of invasive plants, and may travel to nearby refuges to assist with projects. Members will also have the opportunity to participate in other activities on the refuge. 

Primary Duties include:

  • GIS mapping of invasive plants using a rapid protocol established in the Northeast Region
  • Searching for new infestations (Early Detection Rapid Response)
  • Physical removal of invasive plants including hand pulling or with tools (not including chainsaws). Work may be conducted by canoe or kayak (e.g., pulling water chestnut).
  • Assisting with other refuge projects including biological surveys, refuge festivals, and other refuge events.

This individual placement is meant to facilitate professional development and promotes exposure to land management agencies and networking with professionals. This could include gaining experience in different conservation fields and shadowing different work groups.

Schedule: Duties will primarily be carried out Monday-Friday.  Bi-weekly totals should not exceed 80 hours.  A flexible work schedule may be required, which could involve work performed outside of normal work hours including on weekends and/or holidays.  Time off may be granted and requests should be directed to ACE and the FWS for approval.

Position Benefits

Living Allowance: The ACE Member is expected to contribute approximately 40 hours/week and will receive a living allowance of $500/week to offset the costs of food and incidental expenses, dispersed bi-weekly.

AmeriCorps Education Award Program: This position may be eligible for an 300 hour AmeriCorps Education Award while serving under the EAP 2022/23 grant year program, valued up to $1,374.60 upon successful completion of a complete service term and 300 hrs. 

Loan Forbearance: AmeriCorps members may also be eligible for federal loan forbearance. Additional enrollment steps are required.  

Qualifying Child Care Coverage: AmeriCorps members may also be eligible for qualifying child care coverage. Additional enrollment steps are required.  

Housing: Housing is the responsibility of the member and not provided by ACE or FWS.

Provided Training/Orientation: ACE members will receive position specific training and an orientation outlining ACE policies and procedures, clear guidance on prohibited activities, and networks for support. Specific training may include CPR/First Aid.

Qualifications 

Required:
  • Members must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident, as required by U.S. government contracts
  • Willing and able to represent ACE and the partner organization in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner. 
  • A valid driver's license and an insurable driving record (documentation to be provided upon request).
  • Willing to undergo and must pass the required three-part criminal history check
  • Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • ACE Members will need to complete bi-weekly timesheets, beginning of term feedback forms, end of term evaluations and for longer terms, a mid-term evaluation. 
  • Members may not participate in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement or as defined by AmeriCorps.
  • To learn more about eligibility requirements, please visit our website https://www.usaconservation.org/epic/#eligibility-requirements

Preferred:
  • Competitive applicants for this position can hold or be pursuing an associate's or higher degree and/or have relevant experience in subject areas such as natural resources, biology, ecology, wildlife management, natural resource management, parks and recreation, rangeland management, or other related disciplines appropriate to the position.
  • Strong desire to enter the public service field as a natural resource professional.
  • Experience and/or knowledge in the mission of the USFWS and other federal land management agencies.
  • Able to walk and stand for long periods
  • Able to physically pull or remove invasive plants with hand tools
  • Familiarity with GPS and iPads
  • Strong attention to detail, can ensure the quality of the data collected.
  • Familiarity with driving and navigating a vehicle to new destinations.
  • Ability to identify plants and distinguish invasive plants from native plants and willingness to learn
  • Ability to work in a team and accept guidance from supervisor and other refuge staff
  • Ability to work independently
  • Willingness to work in field conditions which will include insects, heat, humidity, rain
  • Willingness to participate in mapping equipment and software use training

Physical Demands, Work Environment and Working Conditions:
  • Physical Demands: This position requires physical exertion such as hiking long distances over hot, wet and rough terrain while carrying up to 40 lbs.; bending, crouching, stooping, lifting or reaching, talking and hearing. Manual dexterity required for use of various tools, computer keyboard/mouse and other office equipment and may involve fine and precise procedures, delicate adjustments or exact measurements.
  • Vision Requirements: Requires close, distance, peripheral and depth perception vision as well as the ability to focus.
  • Weight Lifted or Force Exerted: Frequently moves up to 40 lbs., ability to move up to 40 pounds.
  • Environmental: Outdoor and indoor conditions. Work environment conditions can change frequently; working under adverse weather conditions and in various climates.
  • Noise Environment: Moderate to high noise such as gas-powered chainsaws and other hand and power tools. 
  • Travel: This position may require domestic travel.

Environmental Conditions/Hazards:  The ACE member(s) may encounter environmental conditions/hazards including extreme heat or cold, rocky terrain, swamp or wetland conditions, biting insects, and potentially dangerous wildlife. The member is expected to conduct duties in a safe and orderly manner so as not to endanger self, fellow staff/members or resources.

Vehicle and Equipment Use/Safety: If a vehicle is required for the accomplishment of the duties, one will be provided by FWS.  Any tools required for the accomplishment of the duties will be provided by FWS. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), typically provided by FWS, will be mandatory for any activity that requires it.  Strict adherence to FWS and ACE equipment training, certification and safety protocols is required.  

To Apply: Please submit your resume, a cover letter demonstrating your interest and experience, and contact information for three professional/academic references to the online application page for this position here: https://usaconservation.applicantpool.com/jobs/942352.html Early consideration will be given as resumes are received. This position may close at any time. If you have any questions regarding this position please feel free to contact ACE EPIC FWS Member Manager Danielle Ramsden at dramsden@usaconservation.org or (986) 217-2977.

EEO: American Conservation Experience provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, American Conservation Experience complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.