The Allegan Conservation District is seeking an experienced pesticide applicator to develop and implement invasive species management and restoration projects in Allegan County, Michigan. The Restoration Coordinator will lead all aspects of invasive species education and management including project development, fund acquisition, and progress reporting. In addition, the Coordinator will build and implement a treatment program for residents and businesses to contract management of invasive species outside of funded projects. This is a new position at the Allegan Conservation District funded by local millage dollars. A successful invasive species program will leverage these funds to secure grants and other funding to expand the program.

This position is supervised by the Executive Director and will be responsible for supervising a small (less than five person) field crew in invasive species management activities including surveys, pesticide application, physical removal, data management, and follow up restoration activities. While leading Allegan Conservation District’s invasive species efforts, the incumbent will collaborate with many partner organizations—especially with other members of the West Michigan Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area.

WORKING LOCATION AND CONDITIONS

The position will be based in the Allegan Conservation District Office in Allegan, Michigan. Workdays are generally Monday-Friday. Occasional evenings or weekends will be required for workshops, meetings, or major events. The incumbent will frequently be working outdoors, which may involve traversing uneven terrain or wetlands, working around livestock, manure, and farm waste, and working in a wide range of weather conditions. The incumbent is expected to use pesticides, hand tools, and power tools, and lift up to 50 pounds without mechanical assistance.

COMPENSATION
The Restoration Coordinator is a full time, hourly position with a base pay of $26/hour increasing with experience. Benefits include paid federal holidays, vacation and sick time, employer retirement contribution, employer healthcare contribution, and a hybrid work schedule.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Identify, plan, and implement restoration projects with a focus on invasive species management.
• Write formal proposals for grants and other funding sources.
• Create and maintain a for-hire invasive species management program.
• Conduct educational events and distribute educational materials to demonstrate proper management of invasive species and restoration of degraded sites.
• Maintain thorough and accurate records such as client data, pesticide application records, and completion of project deliverables.
• Hire, train, and supervise a restoration field crew.
• Stay up-to-date on pesticide and invasive species regulations and best practices for invasive species management.
• Develop restoration plans for follow up activities after invasive species removal.
• Be aware of and direct clients to other relevant conservation programs that can further the client’s land management goals.
• Perform other essential activities as required by grant agreements or as assigned by the Executive Director or Board of Directors.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• At least 2 years of experience utilizing pesticides to manage invasive species.
• At least a 4-year equivalent degree in natural resource management, restoration ecology, forestry, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Possess a Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certification in Categories 2, 3B, 5, and 6.
• Proficiency with Microsoft and Google office programs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Excellent social and interpersonal skills; able to work effectively with diverse clientele.
• Ability to independently plan and work towards program goals.
• Must have a reliable personal vehicle to get to work and use for work activities when a District vehicle is unavailable. Personal vehicles are not expected to be used for restoration work, but may be used for meetings or events.

Preferred:

• Proficiency in ArcGIS or other mapping software.
• Technical writing experience, especially project proposals.
• Experience managing field staff.
• Working knowledge of native Michigan plants.
• Experience in land management planning