Biological Science Technician – U.S. Department of the Interior Careers

The purpose of the position is to perform a wide variety of interrelated or nonstandard biological science technical support assignments in the following program areas: plants.

Incumbent will use Trimble GPS units to map exotic plant species, and herbicide to treat plants. Incumbent is also responsible for completing a variety of natural resource projects including exotic and native vegetation, habitat and wildlife monitoring. Incumbent is expected to work both independently and as a member of a team/field crew. Utilizes a variety of computer programs to compile, store, retrieve, analyze and report data including GIS. It is essential that the incumbent is flexible to changing field conditions, has a good attitude and a strong willingness to assist with a variety of natural resource tasks, both in the field and in the office.
The incumbent serves as a member of an invasive plant management team based at Badlands National Park. Specific work assignments include: 1) management of exotic plants using chemical, mechanical, and biological techniques, 2) collection and management of data and records such as, GPS data and herbicide application, 3) establishment and maintenance of vegetation restoration projects. Restoration projects include planting and caring for native trees, shrubs and grasses. The employee will be required to mix, load, and apply herbicides with ATV, UTV and backpack sprayers. Maintain equipment and manage data collected in the field. The use of standard pesticide application methods and standard safety equipment will be required. Operation of on- and off- road vehicles is a job requirement. Training for many activities may be acquired on-the-job. The ATV Rider Course, First Aide/CPR Classes and South Dakota Commercial Pesticide Applicator License will be given when employee arrives. The required examination for the license may be taken on work time and employee must pass the exam within 30 days of his or her start date. The employee will participate in daily project tasks and will report activities to the field crew leader. Employee will be stationed at Badlands National Park and travel to other National Parks to assist in weed management.
Coordinating the day-to-day activities of identification, mapping, and removal of invasive weeds using mechanical, chemical, and biological controls; ensuring adequate quality control of collected data; evaluating observed conditions and making preliminary determinations on the cause of the problems; solving logistical or operational problems within the scope of incumbent’s knowledge and authority; and assisting in the preparation of reports, plans, and guidelines. The work also includes vegetation monitoring, and revegetation activities as needed. Field work involves hiking long distances over uneven terrain, in a wide variety of weather conditions. Collects field data using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, using ArcGIS Pro and other computer programs to track exotic plant control progress, and writes reports. Works with interns and volunteer groups, providing them with advice, assistance, and training on exotic plant treatment techniques. Properly operates resource management equipment, e.g., tools, monitoring, and photographic equipment.
Incumbent will carry out the non-native plant treatment program using chemical, manual, and biological application techniques. Work varies from standing, walking and hiking long distances over rough terrain carrying a three-gallon backpack sprayer to pulling or cutting non-native vegetation. Other duties involve plant identification, vegetation monitoring, biological control collection and distribution, survey and inventory work, map reading, data collection, record keeping, wildland fire support, wildlife project support, and public awareness. The use of standard pesticide and biological control field and safety equipment will be required as well as the use of technology such as global positioning systems (GPS units), iPads and cameras. Incumbent will work under the direction of the Park Botanist and/or be daily team leader. The work is performed both indoors and outdoors, often under adverse weather conditions. Work requires frequent bending, stooping, walking, standing and working in cramped positions. Wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be required. Work requires lifting and moving heavy items. Incumbent must be able to operate All-terrain vehicles (ATVs), UTVs and herbicide equipment.