POSITION SUMMARY

The Invasive Species Seasonal Restoration Crew Members (2 positions) work with the Invasive Species Specialist and other ISN Staff to implement the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, administered through the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the Sustain Our Great Lakes grant, which funds these positions. Primary responsibilities include working with partner organizations to control terrestrial invasive plant species throughout Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee counties.

COMPENSATION

The Invasive Species Seasonal Restoration Crew Member is a seasonal position, working up to 40 hours/week for up to 20* weeks. 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.

*Pending funding, some of the seasonal positions may be extended.

RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to: ISN Coordinator

Led by: ISN Invasive Species Specialist and ISN Habitat Management Specialist

Supervises: None

Works with: ISN staff and partners, volunteers

PREFERRED START DATE

May 26, 2026*

*Start date is flexible, and will be discussed during interviews

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

Formal Education or Equivalent

• Seeking a degree with excellent academic performance, preferably in a natural resource or management field

OR

• High school diploma and one year (season) of experience in invasive species management

Related Work Experience

• Background in natural resource management, particularly in invasive species management
• Experience with hand tools used in landscaping

Skills

• Able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain for extended periods of time and in isolated locations
• Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certificate or Registered Techniciano OR ability and willingness to obtain certificate (required— cost covered by ISN)
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong and proven team-player
• Excellent social and interpersonal skills, especially with diverse clientele and work groups
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language
• Basic computer proficiency (Windows)
• Proficient knowledge of ArcGIS & associated mobile applications preferred
• Strong knowledge of plant identification and regional invasive species preferred

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 offices are located at 3334 Veterans Dr in Traverse City, MI. Restoration Crew Members will frequently be in the field surveying and managing invasive plants throughout Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee counties. Field work may involve traversing uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of temperatures and conditions, in areas with insect pests, and may require lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Must have a willingness to travel within a four-county service area for multiple days (housing expenses would be reimbursed if overnight stays are authorized). Must have a willingness to mechanically control invasive plants as well as become MDARD Registered Tech and work with chemical herbicides. While field equipment will be supplied, the successful applicants must have consistent access to appropriate attire for field work (boots, long pants, long sleeves).