Botany Technicians will conduct rare plant surveys and monitor known occurrences of target species for various landscape management projects. Surveys will be conducted using both quantitative and intuitive controlled methods and will focus on habitat condition and the presence and abundance of target rare plants. Botanical keys will be used to identify rare plants. Data will be collected using a variety of methods including paper field forms and GIS programs on tablets (using apps such as Avenza, Survey123, and Field Maps). 

Botany Technicians will be stationed in Happy Camp, California and will serve under the direction of the District Botanist. Field work will occur in remote locations, where cellular connections are unavailable or inconsistent. Field conditions may include 105 degree F summer weather, thunderstorms, abundant poison oak, insect bites, and wildlife encounters. Candidates should have good physical fitness, the ability to operate vehicles safely on rough, narrow roads, including the use of 4WD, and the ability and willingness to hike steep slopes and endure hot temperatures throughout the summer.

Essential Job Functions may include the following:

• Technicians are responsible for data quality assurance and quality control, ensuring all data is entered into the appropriate databases of record, and for compiling and summarizing data for reports.
• Botany Technicians will also assist with implementing the USFS Noxious Weed Management Program by:
  • Treating existing infestations, 
  • Mapping infestation ranges,
  • Conducting Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) surveys. Treatments will include the use of manual and mechanical control measures including hand pulling, clipping, tarping, and the use of gas-powered weed eaters. Herbicides will not be used. 

• Technicians will have data management responsibilities similar to those described for rare plant work. 
• Additionally, the Botany Technicians may be responsible for directing large crews assisting with invasive plant treatments such as California Conservation Corps and Youth Conservation Corps.