Conservation Technician

Description: East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District is seeking a passionate and motivated individual to execute projects related to habitat restoration and invasive plant species control, and to provide guidance related to such projects to a diverse audience.

The purpose of the position is to work as part of a team to restore healthy habitats in riparian areas and upland forested ecosystems, and to assist with invasive species control projects. Activities include support for the StreamCare program. Long-term goals include the restoration of native plant communities, protection of ecosystem processes, erosion prevention and water quality protection. This is primarily a field-based position and requires use of geospatial tools.

Responsibilities: The work includes outreach to landowners, identification and mapping of noxious weed species using geospatial tools, as well as control work in forested ecosystems, riparian areas, roadside right of ways, and other residential and public properties.

• Weed Control: Work with EMSWCD staff to map and control high priority invasive plants. Work with labor crews on weed control efforts including hand removal, mechanical removal, and application of herbicide. Monitor project sites for treatment efficacy.
• Restoration Project Implementation: Work with EMSWCD staff to map priority restoration areas and management units. Work with labor crews and contractors to conduct site preparation, planting, seeding, erosion control, maintenance, and monitoring.
• Team Member: This position is part of the Rural Lands Program of the EMSWCD. Work with colleagues across programs to support landowner outreach, assist with establishment of landowner agreements, and implement project activities. Work closely with colleagues to support vegetation restoration needs and/or monitoring on properties in which the District has an interest or owns. Actively participate and contribute to equity-related efforts.

Qualifications:

• Skill in vegetation management. Skill and/or ability to identify and treat a variety of invasive plants.
• Ability to identify plants native to the geographic area.
• Skill and/or ability to utilize GPS technology and GIS software to map weed infestations, treatment areas, and restoration sites. Possession of general computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard communications platforms.
• Ability to work at diverse project sites including riparian settings, steep slopes with loose rock. Kayaking and rock climbing experience is a plus.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with a variety of individuals, including landowners and labor crews. Experience leading or working on a crew preferred. Spanish language knowledge is a plus.
• Ability to ensure compliance with EMSWCD policy, state, federal and local requirements.
• Ability to work independently, be proactive and self-directed.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and project management skills.
• Ability to multi-task efficiently and adjust priorities as needed. Ability to work calmly and effectively under tight deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including use of plain language.
• Ability to present information in an engaged manner with diverse populations, partners, and constituents.
• Cooperative and collaborative team member.
• Commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Performance of assigned duties is completed in accordance with established procedures. Procedures that cover the assigned work include EMSWCD annual work plans, EMSWCD policies and procedures, Oregon Department of Agriculture Guidelines for SWCDs, and Oregon public meetings law.

Associates degree or higher in natural resource management, agriculture, forestry or related field. A combination of relevant education and experience may substitute for the educational requirement.

Two years of field-based experience preferred. This may be in farming, restoration, forestry or other work relevant to vegetation management.

Experience with GPS and GIS data management preferred.

Combination of equivalent lived experience and/or related professional work may be considered.

Learn more about this position with the East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District and apply here.