POSITION SUMMARY

Please see the full job listing HERE. The Invasive Species Survey Technicians (2 positions) work together, along with the Director and Habitat Management Specialist, to implement the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (administered through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore), Good Neighbor Authority (administered through the US Forest Service), and various other grants, which fund these positions. Primary responsibilities include working as a team to survey natural areas and private properties for slender false brome, to survey for invasive species in the Manistee River State Game Area and on various Tribal lands, and to conduct native species abundancy surveys on private and public properties. Other duties include general invasive species survey work in natural areas, roadsides, and waterways, data entry, enacting the Seeds of Success program, and engaging volunteers.

COMPENSATION

The Invasive Species Network Survey Technician is a seasonal position, working up to 40 hours/week for up to 16 weeks, with a possibility of an extension based on funding and crew availability. This position is not exempt from overtime requirements, with an hourly wage of $16-18/hour depending on experience. Seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits except those required by law.

PREFERRED START DATE

June 1, 2026 (flexible)

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

Formal Education or Equivalent

• Seeking a degree from an accredited college or university with excellent academic performance
  • Natural Resources, Biology, or related field preferred
• At least two seasons of field experience preferred

Related Work Experience

• Experience in northern hardwood forest plant identification
• Strong experience in northern Michigan flora (native and invasive) preferred
• Background in natural resource management preferred

Skills

• Must be able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain
  • Able to deal with insect pests and inclement weather
• Must be able to navigate off trail or in the backcountry, doing transects, using a tablet
• Strong knowledge of plant identification and regional invasive species
  • Experience with dichotomous keys/applications for plant identification
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong and proven team-player AND self-motivated worker
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language
• Proficient in use of Microsoft Office Suite
• Working knowledge of ArcGIS and related mobile applications

Other

• Able to work flexible hours
• Must maintain a valid driver’s license with clear driving record
• Must have reliable transportation
• Preferred ability to occasionally use a personal vehicle for work purposes. Approved mileage is reimbursed at the federal rate

WORKING CONDITIONS

The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network’s office is located at 3334 Veterans Dr, Unit A, in Traverse City, MI. The Technician will frequently be in the field surveying for terrestrial invasive and native plant species throughout Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee Counties. The Technician will be working closely with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to survey in and around national lakeshore properties, and with the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians & Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians to survey for invasive species in culturally significant areas. Field work may involve traversing uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of temperatures and weather, in areas with incessant insect pests, and may require lifting equipment and materials of up to 40 pounds.  Must have a willingness to travel within a four-county service area.