The Habitat Biologist will provide support in the development and implementation of the Wildlife and Ecosystems Management Program within the Department of Environmental Quality. This role will be a resource for the Community to address the wide variety of habitat management issues the department encounters. This field-based position involves conducting range assessments, the removal of non-native plants, and the propagation of endemic plant communities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Conduct range and vegetation management including assessments, removal, propagation, and monitoring.
• Ensure safety, best-practice and compliance with federal, state, and tribal laws and regulations.
• Provide training and logistical support for Fuels and Restoration Crew.
• Collect and analyze field data; prepare reports and other documents.
• Manage proper use and storage of herbicides and restricted-use chemicals associated with exotic plant control.
• Identify plants; distinguish between native and non-native plants.
• Identify insect characteristics of the region and systems where treatments occur.
• Ensure the safe operation of chainsaws, chippers, skid steers and other heavy equipment associated with exotic plant removal.
• Implement work plans to achieve project objectives; adjust plans and methods as needed.
• Provide field resources and maintenance at wetlands and other habitat-related grants and projects administered by DEQ.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY:

• Knowledge of invasive and native plants characteristic of the region.
• Knowledge of treatment and removal of invasive plants.
• Knowledge of chainsaw use, maintenance and safety.
• Knowledge of ecological survey techniques.
• Knowledge of herbicides and restricted-use chemicals for plant control.
• Knowledge of plant/tree propagation methods in a greenhouse.
• Ability to use forestry tools and instruments, GPS and mapping applications.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule.
• Ability to use computers with Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and other software programs such as Adobe, ArcGIS and FIREMON.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, Community officials and the general public.
• Ability to perform all physical requirements of the position.
• Agree to maintain a drug-free workplace.
• Ability to drive a 4-wheel drive vehicle over rough terrain and/or with an equipment trailer.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Range Management, Range Science, Forestry, Wildlife Biology, Environmental Science, Conservation Science, Natural Resources or a closely related field and three (3) years experience in habitat conservation and restoration work; or any combination of education, experience, and/or training which demonstrates the ability to perform the functions of the position.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENT(S):

Required to obtain a Tribal Operator’s permit. Valid state driver’s license with a current proof of driving record for the past 39 months will be required to qualify for a tribal driving permit. Proof of driving record must be submitted with application and must not be more than 60 days old from the date of submission of the application.

Supervisory, Salaried Position
Reports to Director or designee