Aquatic Invasive Species Technician - Field Assistant III

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University's second-largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy, and environmental resources; and social, physical, and economic well-being.

The Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering (BEE) is one of the largest of its kind in the country with a very diverse faculty, staff, and student population. The department serves three integrated functions: teaching undergraduate and graduate students, researching problems in biology and the environment, and public outreach to help society implement new knowledge.

The New York State Water Resources Institute (NYSWRI) resides within CALS and BEE. Its mission is to improve the management of water resources in New York State and the nation. NYSWRI collaborates with regional, state, and national partners to increase awareness of emerging water resource issues and to develop and assess new water resource management approaches, technologies, and policies. NYSWRI connects water research and water management communities.

Position Summary

While position responsibilities vary, every member of our community is expected to foster a culture of belonging and a psychologically healthy work environment by communicating across differences; being cooperative, collaborative, open, and welcoming; showing respect, compassion, and empathy; engaging and supporting others regardless of background or perspective; speaking up when others are being excluded or treated inappropriately; and supporting work/life integration of oneself and others.

This position represents a partnership between New York State Water Resources Institute (NYSWRI) and the Invasive Species Coordination Section (ISCS) of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Division of Lands and Forests. The ISCS is responsible for coordinating New York State's comprehensive approach to all taxa of invasive species and for supporting programs via partnerships with state and federal agencies, academia, conservation organizations, private organizations, and the public. Major efforts include: prevention, early detection, facilitating responses, coordinating control and management projects at large-scales, coordinating and collaborating on research projects, remaining current on invasive species detection and management techniques, exploring active restoration actions.

The Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Field Technician will work throughout NYSDEC region 5 under the supervision of the region 5 AIS Coordinator on multiple aquatic invasive species monitoring and research projects based out of the NYSDEC office in Warrensburg, NY.

This position is full time (39 hours/week) and will be located in Warrensburg, New York. This is a one-year appointment with possible extension depending on funding and performance.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Relocation assistance will not be provided for this position.

Required Qualifications

• Associate's degree or higher in ecology, biology, natural resources management or related field up to 2 years' of experience working with aquatic invasive species management or other aquatic-based field work, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2+ years experience in field operations.
• Strong interest in aquatic invasive species management.
• Ability to be comfortable with insects that bite and sting and animal encounters, including snakes (rare), spiders, and other aquatic insects and invertebrates.
• Ability to complete pesticide apprenticeship or obtain NYS Commercial Pesticide License (Technician) in Category 5A to assist with aquatic herbicide application within 6 months of start date.
• Must be able to wear proper protective equipment to avoid exposure to toxic chemicals, using extreme caution when handling and applying.
• Experience with Microsoft and Google editing suites (Word, Excel, Docs, Sheets).
• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to swim short distances unassisted.
• Ability to perform research underwater (wading and snorkeling).
• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.
• Ability to physically work in field locations that can be difficult to access.
• Must be able to navigate uneven terrain, hills, etc.
• Knowledge of how to balance conflicting priorities, make informed decisions, and use sound judgment in completing urgent tasks.
• Proven ability to work independently and consult with supervisor when necessary.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent organization skills.
• Ability to work well with other is required while creating high-quality and respectful work environment.
• Must be able to work independently while supporting the efforts of an overall team.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver's license and be cleared to drive for university business.
• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and well-being.
• Passionate about working in an organization that values and promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, and well-being.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating an electrofishing backpack and familiarity with electrofishing safety protocols.
• Experience operating eDNA backpack samplers and familiarity with eDNA sampling collection protocols.
• Experience working in watercraft including canoes and motorboats.
• Experience with operation and trailering of a motorboat.
• Basic knowledge and ability to identify native and invasive fish and aquatic vegetation of New York.
• Experience with data collection applications (Survey123, BioBase EcoSound).
• Working knowledge of ArcGIS Pro.
• Experience using multiple GPS devices to navigate.
• Demonstrated experience with invasive fish and/or aquatic plant monitoring and management.