The Research Associate Program at GBI, in cooperation with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), is recruiting an Invasive Species Technician for Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).  The selected candidate would be responsible for familiarizing themselves with native upland, wetland, and riparian flora so that they may identify invasive and non-native species that post potential risks to the refuge’s diverse ecosystems. The recipient will work independently and with others to accomplish refuge work plans to manage native habitats and wildlife to achieve the purpose of the refuge, and to provide critical habitat for the endangered Moapa dace and other spring-dependent species. This position is an excellent opportunity to gain experience working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, a government agency whose mission is to work with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitat for the continuing benefit of the American people. Several former GBI employees now serve in permanent full-time positions with the USFWS.
 
Primary Responsibilities:

• Inventory and monitor invasive species occurring on the refuge with use of GIS applications.
• Implement the refuge’s Integrated Pest Management System (IPM) to treat invasive species occurring on the refuge, with special focus in riparian habitats using chemical and mechanical methods.
• Track project work progress and assist with documentation of invasive species treatments.
• Act as a crew leader to lead invasive species treatments with volunteers and public groups conducting service projects on the refuge.
• Assist with restoration efforts after invasive species eradication
• Aid in the installation/construction of signs and barriers where necessary, to prevent the degradation of sensitive habitat.
• Complete necessary reporting of activities to the recipient, Southern Nevada Restoration Team, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for databases or data calls, as needed.
• Participate in other tasks to fulfill the purpose of the refuge and mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, such as assisting with bird banding, fish surveys, or macroinvertebrate surveys on the refuge.

 Timeline:

• February 2025, or pending availability and completion of DOI Background Investigation; 52 weeks
• Full time (40 hours/week)

 Location:

 Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a protected wildlife refuge in northeastern Clark County near the town of Moapa, NV. It is roughly 60 miles north of Las Vegas, Nevada. Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge is protected to benefit the federally endangered Moapa dace (a small fish) and its habitat. Several endemic, spring-dependent species occur on the refuge.  In addition to the scenic desert beauty at the Refuge, there are several other recreational and natural setting opportunities to explore close by. Valley of Fire State Park, Death Valley National Park, Mojave National Preserve, Joshua Tree National Park, Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Lake Mead National Recreation Area and more are within a few hours driving distance and afford a variety of outdoor activities ranging from hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing to fishing, boating and skiing/snowboarding.  

Compensation and Benefits: 

Compensation: $17.75 hourly.

Benefits:

• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance;
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost;
• Personal leave and holidays;
• Access to Pro Deals.

Housing: Will be provided to the selected participant at no additional costs onsite at Moapa Valley NWR. 

Qualifications:

Required:

• Familiarity with and/or interest in the ecology of aquatic desert habitat and associated resource management issues;
• Experience with collecting data accurately and completely and entering data correctly into a computer system;
• Ability to use GPS units or FieldMaps to record and locate points and to record field data; and
• Ability to become familiar with the use of ArcGIS to create, import, and export maps and data.
• Possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record;
• Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle on unimproved roads;
• Ability to self-direct and self-motivate
• Ability to work productively, consistently and cooperatively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals; 
• Possess strong organizational skills;
• Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently with the public, coworkers, and Technical Advisors both orally and in writing, and respond in a professional manner to inquiries from the public regarding work activities;
• Ability to safely conduct strenuous fieldwork requiring regular physical exertion including hiking on uneven terrain;
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items, such as equipment packs weighing up to 50 pounds, on a regular basis;
• Ability to work outdoors for long periods of time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions such as hot, cold and/or humid conditions

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (botany or conservation), wildlife ecology or management, or related field. 
• Familiarity and experience with restoration approaches and techniques
• Plant identification skills and previous experience in invasive plant management and/or restoration ecology
• Familiarity with backcountry, low-impact principles
• Experience with use of ArcGIS to create, import, and export maps and data.