Aquatic Invasive Species Technician Field Assistant III

Cornell University seeks an Aquatic Invasive Species Technician Field Assistant III in Ithaca, NY. The role involves managing aquatic invasive species through field surveys, training staff, and conducting research. Responsibilities include species identification, monitoring environments, applying herbicides, and maintaining records. Candidates should have an associate's degree or higher in a related field with 3+ years of experience. The position offers a salary range of $22.84 to $24.05 per hour.
About the position

The Aquatic Invasive Species Technician Field Assistant III will assist in managing aquatic invasive species through field surveys, training seasonal staff, and conducting research. This role involves detailed identification of invasive species, monitoring aquatic environments, and applying herbicides under supervision. The position is based at SUNY New Paltz and offers opportunities to collaborate with faculty on biological research.

Responsibilities
• Assist in training and leading seasonal staff for field surveys of aquatic plants and invertebrates.
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• Perform general equipment maintenance, inspection, and troubleshooting of field research equipment.
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• Conduct detailed identification of invasive pests to inform pesticide application strategies.
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• Monitor stream macroinvertebrates and plankton for invasive species using NYSDEC protocols.
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• Participate in wild stock collection and instillation through wading and snorkeling.
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• Apply herbicides in accordance with Commercial Applicator's instructions under supervision.
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• Maintain digital records of monitoring and control projects in designated task workbooks.
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• Assist summer interns and undergraduates with projects.

Requirements
• Associate's degree or higher in ecology, biology, natural resources management, or related field with 3+ years of experience in aquatic invasive species management or equivalent experience.
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• 2+ years of experience in field operations.
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• Strong interest in aquatic invasive species management.
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• Ability to handle insects and animal encounters in the field.
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• Ability to complete pesticide apprenticeship or obtain NYS Commercial Pesticide License (Technician) in Category 5A within 6 months of start date.
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• Experience with Microsoft and Google editing suites (Word, Excel, Docs, Sheets).
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• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity.
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• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and swim short distances unassisted.
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• Ability to perform research underwater (wading and snorkeling).
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• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and navigate difficult terrain.
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• Excellent written and oral communication skills and organization skills.

Nice-to-haves
• Possess New York State Commercial Pesticide Applicator license or completed apprenticeship with at least 1 year of application experience.
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• Experience with operation and trailering of a motorboat.
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• Basic knowledge of native and invasive aquatic vegetation of New York.
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• Experience with data collection applications (Survey123, BioBase EcoSound).
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• Experience using multiple GPS devices for navigation.
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• Experience with data analysis and visualization software (R, GIS, etc.).
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• Demonstrated experience with aquatic invasive plant monitoring and management.

Benefits
• Salary range of $22.84/hour to $24.05/hour based on experience.
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• Comprehensive total rewards program including health, well-being, sustainability, and diversity initiatives.