With support and guidance from Finger Lakes Institute (FLI) and the Finger Lakes Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (FL-PRISM) staff, Terrestrial Invasive Species (TIS) Technicians support the management and protection of terrestrial ecosystems throughout the Finger Lakes region. Technicians work as part of a team to survey for emerging invasive species, manage high-priority infestations, assist with restoration activities, and collect ecological data related to terrestrial communities. TIS Technicians also represent FLI and FL-PRISM at partner sites and public events, helping to educate community members about invasive species impacts and management. This seasonal position offers hands-on field experience while contributing to coordinated regional invasive species management efforts.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with terrestrial invasive species survey, control, and restoration projects across the Finger Lakes region
• Conduct field surveys for priority invasive species to support early detection and rapid response efforts
• Perform invasive species management using manual, mechanical, and chemical control
• Collect, record, and submit accurate field data using established protocols and digital tools
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and partner organizations at project sites
• Represent FLI and FL-PRISM professionally
• Operate campus-owned vehicles and assist with transporting staff and equipment to field sites
• Participate in required trainings provided by FLI and FL-PRISM staff
• Work independently or in small teams with minimal supervision in remote field settings

Other Information

This is a seasonal (summer), non-benefits-eligible position. Position is based out of Hobart and William Smith Colleges. The Finger Lakes PRISM is one of eight PRISMs supported via funding from the New York State Environmental Protection Fund as administered by NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation. Access to reliable transportation to and from FLI is required. Employee will be reimbursed at the federally approved rate for work-related travel beyond normal commutes when using personal vehicle. Applicant must pass motor vehicle check. This position description is not all-inclusive as other tasks or responsibilities may be assigned. Pay range is $20- $21/ hr.

About HWS

A liberal arts and sciences institution, Hobart and William Smith is known for consistent success in preparing students for meaningful lives and fulfilling careers through an outcomes-based focus on their futures. Our nationally ranked faculty are accessible teachers and scholars known for the impact of their research and distinguished by the depth of their mentorship. World challenges are studied in the classroom where critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills are honed. In the field, knowledge turns into discovery. In office hours, plans are carefully crafted to tie interests and talents to an academic path that motivates beyond graduation.

Our location in the heart of the Finger Lakes allows faculty, staff and students to live and work collaboratively on the banks of a resource-rich lake. Student-athletes play for 30 varsity teams boasting 24 national titles, including the 2023 and 2024 NCAA DIII Men’s Ice Hockey Championships. With three graduate programs, students can build on their undergraduate degree with a Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership, Master of Arts in Teaching, or a Master of Science in Management. Together, the experiences and mentorship at HWS prepare students to lead lives of consequence.

Qualifications

• Experience identifying terrestrial invasive species, particularly plants (insect identification a plus)
• Basic understanding of invasive species ecology and management principles
• Experience with, or ability to perform, environmental fieldwork including vegetation surveys, invasive species removal, and restoration plantings
• Willingness to apply pesticides as part of integrated invasive species management
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions and uneven terrain
• Comfort using field equipment and technology
• Ability to work collaboratively as team and communicate clearly with staff and partners
• Ability to make sound field decisions using judgment and guidance provided during training
• Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable motor vehicle record; reliable transportation to meeting locations required
• Ability to make sound field decisions using judgment and guidance provided during training
• Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds
• Valid driver’s license with acceptable motor vehicle record; reliable transportation to meeting locations required

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Colleges are an equal employment opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination and harassment in their programs and activities against employees or applicants based on race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, citizenship, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristics, marital status, familial status, domestic violence victim status, caregiver status, military status, including past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, social class, or any other category or characteristic protected by applicable law.