POSITION TITLE: Habitat Restoration Technician

Overview:  This position is a partnership between Canaan Valley Institute (CVI) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Partners for Fish & Wildlife Program (PFW). The position will assist with the development and implementation of conservation and habitat restoration projects on private lands throughout Southwest Virginia to benefit federal trust species and other associated wildlife. The Habitat Restoration Technician will assist in planning, design, and implementation of cooperative agreement and grant-funded restoration projects. Restoration work may include habitat enhancement, streambank stabilization/instream habitat improvement, riparian buffer and pollinator meadow establishment, invasive treatments, forest stand improvement, water quality improvements, culvert replacements, and barrier/dam removals. This work often involves close cooperation with project partners, agencies, and landowners; field work in remote locations for several days at a time; and budget constraints and deadlines. This is an ecologically-oriented position that supports projects as part of a small, fast-paced, and dynamic team. The position is based in Abingdon, VA, and may require significant travel throughout Southwest Virginia.  

This position requires a combination of education and experience in natural resources/biological sciences as well as relevant field work experience in implementing habitat restoration projects or similar projects/programs; strong written, verbal, and interpersonal skills; ability to work independently and as a member of a team; flexibility, adaptability, and capacity to work in a fluid, changing work environment; organizational skills, the ability to manage multiple projects, and a talent for working with partners to solve problems and develop site-specific solutions; working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, and GIS mapping software. Preference will be given to experience and working knowledge of vehicle/equipment use and maintenance, hand and power tools, and construction site awareness. Travel throughout CVI’s Southwest Virginia service area will be required; therefore, candidates should possess a valid driver’s license.

Position Responsibilities:

• Assist with field survey, design, and implementation of various habitat restoration projects (including but not limited to streambank/instream, barrier removal, pollinator, wetland, riparian, non-native invasive control, and migratory bird projects) to benefit federally listed and at-risk species. Project implementation will be carried out in a variety of terrain and weather conditions.
• Assist in conducting physical, chemical, and biological survey, monitoring, and assessment.
• Maintain positive professional relationships through communication/coordination with landowners, regulatory agencies, and project partners.
• Assist with environmental compliance for habitat restoration projects.
• Monitor, document, and report on ongoing and completed restoration projects.
• Assist in development and delivery of outreach and environmental education activities.
• Arrange for the procurement of supplies and equipment for restoration and habitat management projects.
• Safely operate equipment such as chain saws, hand tools, survey equipment, and heavy equipment to implement habitat restoration projects.

Desired but Not Required Skills: Our ideal candidate contributes to a team that may include contractors to achieve the full complement of required skills. Candidates who can contribute one of more of these desired skills are preferred:

• Knowledge of local flora and fauna
• Natural Stream Design Survey and Practice
• Stream Survey Data Collection, Management, and Interpretation
• T&E Species Survey Experience or Certification
• Herbicide Applicator License
• Treatment of non-native invasive species through chemical, physical or biological means and establishment of native species through various planting techniques
• Heavy equipment operation: skid steer, excavator, ATV/UTV, dump truck, tractor, etc. and/or ability to obtain training/certification

Salary Range: $20-$24 starting range with opportunity for growth. Higher starting wage considered for individuals with exceptional qualifications or additional certifications/licenses beyond those required for this position.

Benefits include:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan