Invasive Plant Coordinator #25095

Posted 07/22/2025 Parma, Ohio, United States 

Position Type Full-Time

Wage $52,468 - $62,585 annually (Internal equity considerations and the average salary of the peer range will be reviewed/considered before making a final offer)

Job Description

The Invasive Plant Coordinator leads the district-wide Invasive Plant Management Program, developing and implementing comprehensive plans to assess and remove invasive plant species that threaten the environment and local economy. This role involves hiring and training field crews, maintaining detailed databases and geodatabases of treatment locations, and collaborating with Natural Resources staff on restoration projects, equipment procurement, and outreach efforts.

The ideal candidate for the Invasive Plant Coordinator role brings a strong foundation in ecology, botany, and invasive species management, along with proven experience conducting fieldwork and developing site-specific treatment plans. They are technically proficient in GIS software and skilled in managing large datasets to support decision-making and reporting. This individual has demonstrated success in hiring, training, and supervising field crews, and is experienced in overseeing contracts, managing budgets, and coordinating with vendors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develops and implements annual and multi-year invasive plant removal plans, coordinating with Natural Resources and other park divisions.
• Hires, trains, and supervises seasonal field crews, manages program budgets, and ensures staff receive training in safety, plant identification, and data management.
• Oversees field data collection and maintain GIS databases to track invasive species treatment and outcomes.
• Conducts field surveys and leads invasive plant removal using both chemical and mechanical methods.
• Travels to remote areas of the park district for field supervision and program administration.
• Manages procurement, inventory, and contracts related to equipment, supplies, and herbicides.
• Builds and maintains collaborative relationships with internal teams, external partners, and professional networks; provides technical expertise and training.
• Engages in public and professional outreach, representing Cleveland Metroparks in local and regional networks addressing invasive species.
• Maintains regular and predictable attendance and flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Requirements

Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in botany, biology, plant ecology, or a related field required; supplemented by three (3) years of experience in GIS map creation, data recording, and invasive plant field management; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position.

Qualifications:

• Must possess and maintain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Proficiency with GIS software (QGIS preferred) to create detailed maps, maintain geodatabases, and analyze spatial data.
• Experience managing contracts, including developing bid specifications, overseeing vendor performance, and ensuring compliance with terms and project requirements.
• Ability to effectively balance the demands of fieldwork and office responsibilities, adapting to a varied workload that shifts with seasonal priorities.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders, including employees and the general public.
• Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely and persuasively using correct grammar, spelling and punctuation with ability to communicate one-on-one or in group settings.
• Ability to perform work with a high degree of accuracy and organization.
• Management skills and strong business acumen, including problem solving, vision, ability to manage multiple programs and meet deadlines, collaboration, leadership, decision making and ability to analyze diverse facts and develop clear and concise reports and recommendations.
• Proficiency in software programs including all Microsoft Office programs.
• Mature professional attitude and considerable discretion, including ability to manage confidential information.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with initiative, as well as cooperatively as part of a team.

Work Days: Monday – Friday, Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as necessary.

Filing Deadline: Open until filled.