The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) Finger Lakes Environmental Stewardship Team seeks an Environmental Stewardship Technician to manage 22.6 miles of trails—six of which are designated for snowmobiles—at Harriet Hollister Spencer (HHS) State Recreation Area. This position focuses on controlling terrestrial invasive plant species and the invasive Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA), both of which threaten ecosystem health, biodiversity, and trail-user safety by increasing the risk of hazardous tree mortality.

In this role, stewardship principles are balanced with enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities and restoring significant habitats compromised by invasive species. During the summer months, the technician will spend approximately 90% of their time in the field. Key activities include controlling invasive plant species and conducting surveys for HWA and Beech Leaf Disease along the entire trail system. The technician will also engage with local trail user groups and adjacent public, private, and non-governmental organization landowners to forge partnerships that inform management strategies and support large-scale invasive species control.

In addition to field-based invasive species management, the technician will facilitate access improvements at HHS State Recreation Area by collaborating with local partners to update signage. This role requires effective coordination and communication among the State Parks Trail Crew, Maintenance and Operations Staff, the Environmental Field Team, and FORCES Volunteers, ensuring that the diverse needs of in-agency groups align with primary project goals. Furthermore, the technician will work with partners to develop inclusive, appealing signage for patrons of all backgrounds and abilities. Once primary tasks are completed, minimal maintenance duties at HHS State Recreation Area may also be required to support ongoing environmental resource protection and sustainable trail management.

Minimum Qualifications: There are no minimum qualifications per Civil Service.

OPERATIONAL NEEDS:

• NYS native and invasive plant identification experience.
• Experience with detailed data management.
• Experience with mapping and GPS/GIS. Must be able to make concise and usable maps using data collected on handheld Garmin devices or tablets throughout the season.
• Experience with field surveys and monitoring, and ability to perform repetitive work carefully and diligently.
• Experience with herpetology, including identification of native amphibians and reptiles.
• Experience conducting vernal pool surveys and amphibian egg mass identification.
• Independent, organized, and comfortable leading a volunteer team in a field setting.
• Familiarity with hemlock woolly adelgid, and hemlock identification and basic biology.
• Professionalism and clear communication will be exceptionally important to aid in the success of this project.
• Reliable transportation to and from work location and a valid Driver’s License
• When required to operate motor vehicles, candidates must possess a valid New York State driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle to be operated.
o State vehicle available for use from the Environmental Stewardship Office when traveling to HHS
• Strong verbal communication skills and ability to interact with the public and park staff.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Pesticide license in categories 3A or 2 for New York State or willingness to obtain.
• A degree or equivalent experience in natural resources, biology, environmental studies, or a related field.

BENEFITS:
This position has the option to join the NYS Employees’ Retirement System and may be eligible for health insurance, dental and vision coverage as well as the opportunity for paid time off in the form of vacation, sick, personal and holiday leave after time and service requirements have been met.

The duration of this position is from May 5th-September 15th, 2025 (dates are flexible)

Office work will be completed from the Environmental Stewardship Office at the Ganondagan State Historic Site, and a state vehicle will be provided for transportation on split days to the Harriet Hollister Spencer State Recreation Area.