International Boundary Commission US Section – Seasonal Employment Opportunity

Location: Washington/British Columbia (US/Canadian Border)

Duration: Seasonal (Approx. April 20 to September 19, 2026)

Job Overview:

The US Section of the International Boundary Commission is seeking individuals to join our seasonal crew for a project along the Eastern Washington/British Columbia boundary. The project will consist of recovery and maintaining existing boundary markers, surveying the boundary line between markers, and clearing the surrounding vista to ensure a visible and well-defined international boundary.

Duties:

• Recovery of Existing Monuments: Conduct GNSS surveys to recover existing markers along the boundary and perform regular checks for positional accuracy.
• Maintenance on Existing Monuments: Make necessary repairs and ensure boundary markers remain visible and in good condition.
• Vista Clearing: The predominant task for this position is to maintain a 20-foot-wide clear “skyline” along the boundary by removing vegetation, timber, or debris using chain saws and brush saws. Cut timber and debris will be removed from the boundary corridor to ensure the vista remains open and free from obstruction.
• Wildfire Mitigation: Implement safe practices to reduce the accumulation of potential wildfire fuels along the cleared vista. Large woodchippers will be used to disperse cut debris along accessible boundary areas, while alternative methods will be employed in remote locations where woodchippers cannot be used.
• Boundary Line Staking: Mark the boundary prior to the vista clearing party using GNSS and/or total station instruments to define the line and vista limits to be cleared.
• Record Keeping: Accurately document work performed, including fuel receipts, survey notes, monument conditions and descriptions, and any other work performed.
• Site Access and Equipment Staging: Respectfully and responsibly work with landowners and boundary officials (US Customs and Border Protection, US Border Patrol, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and Canadian Border Services) to access project areas and transport ATVs, trucks, and surveying instruments. Access to remote areas may require additional aid from pack animal services or helicopter transport.
• General Site Maintenance: Ensure that all work areas are safe, clean, and accessible while work is performed; maintain clear communication and safe practices while using cutting equipment.
• Collaboration: All tasks will be performed as part of a team, adhering to safety protocols and working in remote, outdoor environments.

Qualifications:

• Physical Fitness: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and carrying heavy objects, operating tools, hiking, and working in harsh outdoor environments (heat, cold, rain, insects, etc.).
• Ability to Work with Tools: Experience using chain saws, brush saw, survey instruments (Trimble GNSS and Total Stations), etc. is preferred, but is not required and training will be provided as needed. Prior experience in forestry, brush clearing, and/or land surveying is a plus.
• Team-Oriented: Must work well in a collaborative team environment.
• Self-Motivated: Candidates must be capable of performing expected tasks independently in small groups without constant direction.
• Adaptability: Candidates must demonstrate strong adaptability and flexibility in the dynamic work environment, must be able to change priorities, approaches, and strategies when unforeseen challenges or conditions arise.
• Attention to Detail and Trainability: Capable of following instructions and able to document work when necessary.
• Willingness to Travel: Must be open to traveling to project areas for the duration of the field season. Lodging and transportation from designated duty station will be provided (Colville, Washington)
• Safety-Conscious: Strong commitment to adhering to safety guidelines and procedures.
• US Citizen: Applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet federal hiring requirements for this position.
• Valid Driving License: Applicants must have a valid U.S. driver's license. A Class A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is a plus.
• Ability to Enter into Canada: This position will require travel to Canada. Applicants must ensure they meet Canadian entry requirements, which may be affected by certain criminal convictions, including DUIs.

Compensation:

$24.00 per hour (WG6-1) + $68 per day (per diem-MI&E total)

Direct Deposit Required

Housing covered by the IBC

Required Documentation:

Resume

Proof of citizenship: US Birth Certificate, US Passport, Naturalization Certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship

How to Apply:

Submit your resume to dowdj@ibcusca.org

For questions, contact Logan Dowd by email or at (406) 231-0119.

About the International Boundary Commission:

The International Boundary Commission is a joint commission permanently established by a 1925 treaty between the US and Canada. The Commission’s primary responsibility is to maintain and clearly define the boundary between the two countries, this is to ensure the border remains visible with properly maintained boundary markers and a clear vista on both sides. For more information regarding the IBC visit: https://www.internationalboundarycommission.org/