Central Michigan Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CM-CISMA) is hiring two Seasonal Invasive Species Technicians to perform botanical surveys of terrestrial, aquatic, and emergent plant communities, while supporting invasive species outreach across the five counties of the service area: Midland, Clare, Gratiot, Gladwin, and Isabella.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct botanical surveys on foot or kayak/canoe on public and private lands
• Collect field data using datasheets, GPS units, hand- drawn field maps, and the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) phone app or website.
• Assist with the development of invasive species inventory maps and management plans related to invasive species found during botanical surveys.
• Perform property listing searches using reference maps, and consult with county equalization departments, online and in person, to determine land ownership and contact information.
• Obtain property owner permissions to enter private property for the purpose of conducting botanical surveys.
• Promote CM-CISMA landowner assistance programs through personal contact during site visits and through participation in outreach activities, and by phone/email/direct-mail as follow-up
• Participate in outreach activities that promote the CM-CISMA with the coordinator or partners of the CM-CISMA
• Enter data into the online MISIN Treatment Tracking geo-database.
• Participate in CM-CISMA partner projects that may involve botanical invasive species removal, survey, construction of signs, etc.

Skills and Eligibility Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or working toward a degree in botany, conservation biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• Experience identifying Michigan native and invasive botanical species
• Must exhibit strong verbal and written communication skills when working with any and all demographic groups
• Must hold a valid driver’s license, have a good driving record, and a reliable vehicle
• Must be comfortable to work outdoors in remote areas and on office projects
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite programs
• Experience with ArcGIS Online, and Survey 123 preferred.
• May be required to obtain a pesticide license, if not already obtained prior to employment.

Terms and Benefits:

• Pay Rate: $16-$18 per hour, based on experience
• This is for (2) full-time seasonal positions, working 32 hours (4 days) per week for up to 15 weeks *pending funding, some seasonal positions may be extended.
• Must be able to work flexible hours; workdays are generally 8 hour days, with occasional evenings and weekends required.
• Start date May 26th, 2026 (Flexible can start sooner or later if needed)

Seasonal employees are hired for temporary assignments not exceeding 120 days. Seasonal employees may work full-time hours but are not considered regular full-time employees for purposes of benefit eligibility. Seasonal employees are not eligible for employer-sponsored benefits, including health insurance, retirement, paid holidays, or vacation. Seasonal employees will accrue and may use earned sick time in accordance with Michigan law.

Other Considerations:

• Candidate must be comfortable working in all weather conditions including exposure to common insect pests and hazardous plants
• Travel using personal vehicle will be required, with mileage reimbursement at the federal rate of .725 cents per mile
• Must have experience piloting a kayak/canoe and know how to swim
• Must be willing to travel across the five-county area as needed to complete work assignments
• Will be working with chemicals such as herbicide on a regular basis