Organizational Mission:

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

Position Summary

The Non-Native Invasive Species (NNIS) Lead Technician will report to the NNIS Coordinator and provides leadership for NNIS field crews along the Appalachian Trail in NC, TN, VA, and GA, focusing on areas impacted by Hurricane Helene. This position combines fieldwork with supervisory and coordination duties. The mobile crew is based in Asheville, NC, with some office work. Frequent travel to remote locations is required. This is a full-time position (35–40 hours/week) from February through November.

Primary responsibilities include inventorying NNIS, implementing management prescriptions, performing chemical and mechanical treatments, mapping, and completing compliance and reporting documentation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead field crews in implementing chemical and mechanical NNIS management treatments.
• Conduct NNIS inventory and ensure accurate data collection and reporting.
• Assist with ash tree treatments against emerald ash borer in TN, NC, and GA.
• Coordinate daily field logistics, equipment uses, and safety protocols.
• Train, mentor, and supervise Technicians and volunteers in field procedures.
• Lead, plan, and coordinate  NNIS management workdays with trail clubs, volunteers, and partners.
• Collaborate with ATC staff, partners, and trail clubs to coordinate NNIS management efforts.
• Support development of NNIS management prescriptions, compliance documentation, and reporting to federal partners.
• Follow the direction of NNIS Coordinators with respect to duties, logistics, timetables, projects, submit biweekly timesheets, and perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• BA/BS degree in conservation biology, ecology, forestry, or natural resource management or associate degree with 3-5 years of field experience required.
• At least 1 year of experience in a leadership role managing a team.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience performing natural resource management and stewardship activities.
• Familiarity with Southern Appalachian ecology and the Appalachian Trail preferred
• Ability to differentiate NNIS from native flora preferred. Proven leadership or supervisory experience in field-based crews.
• Strong problem-solving skills, independence, and ability to handle complex field situations.
• Experience operating land stewardship safely (loppers, hand saws, brush cutters, chainsaws, PPE).
• Pesticide applicator license in TN, NC, GA, and/or VA preferred; willingness to obtain post-hire required.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to foster collaboration with staff, partners, and volunteers.
• Experience with ArcGIS, GPS, and GIS principles; proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google applications.
• Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder and CPR certification preferred (may be obtained post-hire).

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Frequent travel across TN, NC, GA, and VA; some weekend work and overnight camping required.
• Office work based in regional offices; moderate noise and shared workspace.
• Transportation to field sites required; ATC provides rental vehicles and mileage reimbursement as relevant.
• Work may involve power tools, extreme weather, ticks, and typical backcountry hazards.
• Must be able to hike long distances, stand for extended periods, lift and carry up to 50 lbs. over rough terrain, and work on wet/slippery surfaces.
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) Requirement: This position requires the successful candidate to pass a motor vehicle record check. Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a driving record that meets organizational and insurance requirements. 
• Possible exposure to ticks and pests, extreme weather, and hazards typical of a backcountry environment.

Additional Information:

• Term Length: Currently planned February 23, 2026, to October 30, 2026.
• Hourly Rate: $21.00 – $24.00 
• Location/Region required to work from Georgia to central Virginia from Asheville, North Carolina.
• Benefits: 1 hour of sick time per 30 hours worked.
• Offer is contingent upon successful MVR report.

ATC Equal Employment Opportunity Statement  

ATC encourages collaboration, flexibility, and fairness with all employees and volunteers to enable participation and contributions to their fullest potential.

We are committed to being an inclusive organization and recognize that a broad range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds contributes to an effective and successful organizational culture and mission.

ATC prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and/or expression), national origin, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, political affiliation, union membership, or any other status protected by the laws and regulations in the locations where we operate.

ATC's Identity Statement

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