Organizational Mission:

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

Position Summary

The Non-Native Invasive Species (NNIS) Technician will report to the NNIS Coordinator and oversee NNIS management and data collection along areas of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) in North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia affected by Hurricane Helene. The NNIS Strike Team is a mobile crew based in Asheville, NC, requiring both fieldwork and some administrative duties. This position involves frequent travel throughout the Southern and Virginia regions, often to remote locations with minimal facilities. The role is full-time (35–40 hours/week) for approximately eight months (February–November).

Primary responsibilities include NNIS inventory, implementing management prescriptions, performing chemical and mechanical NNIS treatments, mapping, and completing compliance and reporting documentation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct and record NNIS inventory data in the Southern and Virginia Regions, focusing on areas impacted by Helene related disturbance.
• Implement chemical and mechanical treatments for NNIS and assist with ash tree treatments against the emerald ash borer in TN, NC, and GA.
• Follow guidance from NNIS Coordinators and Strike Team Lead regarding duties, logistics, timetables, projects.
• Assist with data collection, mapping, database management, and equipment maintenance.
• Collaborate with ATC staff, partners, Trail Clubs, and volunteers to manage NNIS on public lands 
  • Facilitate NNIS management workdays with trail clubs, volunteers, and partners.
  • Develop NNIS management prescriptions, file compliance documents, and report to federal partners.

Qualifications

• BA/BS degree in conservation biology, ecology, forestry, or natural resource management or associate degree preferred. Additional experience in lieu of degree considered.
• Minimum of 2 seasons performing natural resource management and stewardship activities.
• Familiarity with Southern Appalachian ecology and the Appalachian Trail preferred
• Ability to differentiate NNIS from native flora preferred.
• Experience operating land stewardship tools safely (loppers, hand saws, brush cutters, chainsaws, PPE).
• Pesticide applicator license in TN, NC, GA, and/or VA preferred; willingness to obtain post-hire required.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to foster collaboration with staff, partners, and volunteers.
• Experience with ArcGIS, GPS, and GIS principles; proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google applications.
• Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder and CPR certification preferred (may be obtained post-hire).

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Frequent travel across TN, NC, GA, and VA; some weekend work and overnight camping required.
• Office work based in regional offices; moderate noise and shared workspace.
• Transportation to field sites required; ATC provides rental vehicles and mileage reimbursement as relevant.
• Work may involve power tools, extreme weather, ticks, and typical backcountry hazards.
• Must be able to hike long distances, stand for extended periods, lift and carry up to 50 lbs over rough terrain, and work on wet/slippery surfaces.
• Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) Requirement: This position requires the successful candidate to pass a motor vehicle record check. Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a driving record that meets organizational and insurance requirements. 
• Possible exposure to ticks and pests, extreme weather, and hazards typical of a backcountry environment.

Additional Information:

• Term Length: Currently planned February 23, 2026, to October 30, 2026.
• Hourly Rate: $19.00 – $21.00 
• Location/Region required to work from Georgia to central Virginia from Asheville, North Carolina.
• Benefits: 1 hour of sick time per 30 hours worked.
• Offer is contingent upon successful MVR report.

ATC Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) encourages collaboration, flexibility, and fairness with all employees and volunteers to enable participation and contributions to their fullest potential. 

We are committed to being a diverse and inclusive organization, and recognize that diversity contributes to an effective and successful organizational culture and mission.

The ATC prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and/or expression), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, political affiliation, union membership, or any other status protected by the laws and regulations in the locations where we operate.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy's Identity Statement

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