Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Invasive Species Survey Technicians (2 positions) work together, along with the Director and Habitat Management Specialist, to implement the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (administered through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore), Good Neighbor Authority (administered through the US Forest Service), and various other grants, which fund these positions. Primary responsibilities include working as a team to survey natural areas and private properties for slender false brome, to survey for invasive species in the Manistee River State Game Area and on various Tribal lands, and to conduct native species abundancy surveys on private and public properties. Other duties include general invasive species survey work in natural areas, roadsides, and waterways, data entry, enacting the Seeds of Success program, and engaging volunteers.

COMPENSATION

The Invasive Species Network Survey Technician is a seasonal position, working up to 40 hours/week for up to 16 weeks, with a possibility of an extension based on funding and crew availability. This position is not exempt from overtime requirements, with an hourly wage of $16-18/hour depending on experience. Seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits except those required by law.

PREFERRED START DATE

June 1, 2026 (flexible)

WORKING CONDITIONS

The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network’s office is located at 3334 Veterans Dr, Unit A, in Traverse City, MI. The Technician will frequently be in the field surveying for terrestrial invasive and native plant species throughout Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee Counties. The Technician will be working closely with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to survey in and around national lakeshore properties, and with the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians & Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians to survey for invasive species in culturally significant areas. Field work may involve traversing uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of temperatures and weather, in areas with incessant insect pests, and may require lifting equipment and materials of up to 40 pounds.  Must have a willingness to travel within a four-county service area.  

Please email completed application, three references, a 1-2 pg resume, and cover letter stating your suitability for the position based on required knowledge and skills to the Invasive Species Network Habitat Management Specialist, Luke Kreykes, at lkreykes@habitatmatters.org The application can be found on the ISN website at https://www.habitatmatters.org/employment.html. No calls please.

Job positions are open until filled. 

This project is funded in part by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, administered through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the Sustain Our Great Lakes grant initiative.

The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network (ISN) is a collaboration of over 40 highly motivated and respected organizations in the region. ISN’s mission is to protect, enhance, and promote northwest Michigan's natural communities through terrestrial invasive plant management and outreach. Its service area includes Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee Counties. More information about ISN can be found at HabitatMatters.org. 

Requirements

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

Formal Education or Equivalent

      Seeking a degree from an accredited college or university with excellent academic performance

o   Natural Resources, Biology, or related field preferred

      At least two seasons of field experience preferred

Related Work Experience

      Experience in northern hardwood forest plant identification 

      Strong experience in northern Michigan flora (native and invasive) preferred

      Background in natural resource management preferred

Skills

      Must be able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain

o   Able to deal with insect pests and inclement weather

      Must be able to navigate off trail or in the backcountry, doing transects, using a tablet

      Strong knowledge of plant identification and regional invasive species

o   Experience with dichotomous keys/applications for plant identification

      Strong organizational skills

      Strong and proven team-player AND self-motivated worker

      Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language

      Proficient in use of Microsoft Office Suite

      Working knowledge of ArcGIS and related mobile applications

Other

      Able to work flexible hours

      Must maintain a valid driver’s license with clear driving record

      Must have reliable transportation

      Preferred ability to occasionally use a personal vehicle for work purposes. Approved mileage is reimbursed at the federal rate