WNC Communities is hiring forestry technicians to be part of a team treating hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) on public lands across Western North Carolina.
- The fall season runs approximately Sept. 28 through Dec. 30, 2022 with opportunity to return for spring season (approx. Feb. 1 – Apr. 30, 2023). Preference will be given to candidates available for both fall and spring.
- Hours will vary based on weather, project location and state & local COVID-19 related restrictions, with a target of four 10-hour days/week on average. Some days may be longer or shorter. Will require a flexible schedule, occasional weekend work and overnight travel for up to four nights at a time.
Hourly wage will be $16-18/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.
- There may be opportunity to advance to crew leader position based on performance review during fall season.
To apply, send resume, references and cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position 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. Clean and inventory equipment and vehicle on a daily basis.
- 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 and follow-up summary reports.
- 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.
- Must possess, or be willing 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.
- Must adhere strictly to HRI’s COVID-19 guidelines at all times, which could include mask-wearing while indoors or in vehicles, spatial distancing, testing and self-reporting any symptoms of COVID-19 or exposure to anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
- 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 twenty 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, including field sites 1-3 hours away when necessary.
- Experience in team-based outdoor field work, S. Appalachian ecosystems, and natural resource management is
preferred, but not required.
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.
WNC Communities is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate because of race, creed, color, national origin, gender, age, disability, sexual preference or familial status. People with diverse skills and experience are encouraged to apply.