WNC Communities is hiring a seasonal forestry technician to be part of a team treating hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) on public lands across Western North Carolina.
- Season begins October 14, 2019 and ends approximately May 15, 2020.
- Hours will vary based on weather & project location, with a target of three to four 10-hour days/week.
- Hourly wage will be $13-14/hour, based on experience. No benefits are offered with this position.
- All necessary training and gear will be provided, excluding personal clothing and footwear.
- Home base will be the WNC Communities office in Asheville, NC.
- Experience in forestry, natural resource management and/or treating HWA is preferred.
To apply, send resume, references and cover letter to director@savehemlocksnc.org
Position open until filled.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Perform chemical treatment of hemlock trees on state and other public lands in areas determined by the HRI Director and/or state agency personnel.
- Prepare for workdays, including acquiring directions to site, developing/reviewing treatment plans, checking equipment, etc.
- Drive HRI program vehicle to and from site and on-site, when necessary; maintain gas log.
- Scout and assess potential Hemlock Conservation Areas and draft Hemlock Treatment Plans (HTPs).
- Provide on-site guidance, instruction & additional facilitation of BRIDGE crews, volunteers and workshop participants. (Click here to learn more about the NCFS BRIDGE program.)
- Work independently to conduct treatments when BRIDGE and volunteer crews are not available.
- Assist with HWA-predator monitoring & other aspects of biological control program.
- Assist with installation and monitoring of tree health assessment plots.
- Use proper data recording techniques and GPS to record, compile and enter data from chemical and biological treatments and tree health assessments, including mapping.
- Maintain records, equipment and chemical inventory.
- Maintain frequent and timely communication with HRI Director and other staff.
Requirements:
- Must possess leadership and problem-solving skills, integrity and a strong work ethic.
- Will be required to obtain a NC commercial ground pesticide applicator’s license.
- Must become familiar and comfortable working with pesticides, follow all safety protocols and wear personal protective equipment required for safe, effective and efficient completion of the tasks.
- Work is typically performed in a field setting. The position requires long days in the field and is physically demanding. Must be able to bend and stoop, navigate steep, rugged terrain, and lift up to fifty pounds. The position may require working in adverse weather conditions and exposure to poison ivy, insects and other wildlife.
- Will require occasional multi-day overnight travel.
- Must maintain a valid NC driver’s license and have a clean driving record.
- Use personal transportation to arrive to WNC Communities office or other designated location.
Contact:
Margot Wallston, director@savehemlocksnc.org, (828) 252-4783
To apply, send resume, references and cover letter to the above email address. Position open until filled.
