The technician will be part of a field management crew.  Activities will include (but are not limited to) the implementation of natural resource management activities: primarily invasive species control, forest management, wildlife habitat establishment and maintenance, tree/shrub/plug planting, field surveys and assessments, and biodiversity restoration work.  Excellent communication with company principals, staff and clients (private landowners, public agencies and non-profit organizations) is an important part of the position.  Training in the field will be a major part of this position – safe and effective use of herbicide in a restoration setting, natural lands management goals and methods, native and invasive plant identification skills.

Education

Applicants should be enrolled or recently graduated from an undergraduate program in a Natural Resources discipline (forestry, wildlife, botany, etc.) in either a two-year technical program or four-year university.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Knowledge of safe use, operation, and preventive maintenance of common equipment such as backpack sprayers, string trimmers and chainsaws
• Knowledge of GIS and ESRI products preferred 
• Knowledge of plant identification tools and ability to identify native and invasive plants or a desire to learn to do so (training provided)
• Ability to obtain and maintain Virginia Pesticide Applicator’s license via Virginia Forestry and Wildlife Group
• Knowledge of and comfort using herbicides in a restoration setting (training provided)
• Exposure to heat, biting insects, snakes and other wildlife should be anticipated
• Ability to maintain a good attitude and composure under stressful conditions, and to effectively work with others 
• Applicants should be physically fit and willing to work in a diversity of outdoor habitats and situations including mountainous terrain

Location 

Virginia Forestry and Wildlife Group is based out of Albemarle County.  The successful applicant should find housing close to Charlottesville or Albemarle County to facilitate efficient travel and work schedule.  Most work will be within 1.5 hours of the office, but occasional overnight trips are possible.