Natural Resources Technician

Summary of Work

• Apply herbicides to manage invasive species and promote native vegetation, maintaining accurate spraying records.
• Operate and maintain equipment such as ATV, XUV, truck and backpack equipment and sprayers safely and effectively.
• Conduct invasive species surveys and assessments.
• Assist with tree planting and tree and shrub maintenance initiatives to enhance park landscapes.
• Travel frequently for overnight assignments to various state parks, adapting to diverse working environments.

Will be responsible for performing tasks associated with maintaining state parks' natural resources. The focus of the work will be noxious weed control, but duties may also include invasive species control, tree and shrub planting and maintenance, and restoration seeding.

Working environments vary considerably in this occupation. Technicians will work outdoors in all weather conditions. Field operations will be based out of ND Parks and Recreation headquarters-shop in Bismarck-Mandan North Dakota, but the position requires traveling around the state to several state parks during the field season with overnight stays. Hours of work will vary with no weekend work.

• Coursework or studies in natural resource management, agriculture, or a related field.
• Ability to operate and maintain equipment, including pick-up trucks, trailers, and sprayers.
• Willingness to obtain a commercial applicator's pesticide certification.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience using ATVs or XUVs.
• Valid driver’s license.

Must be self-motivated with the ability to effectively apply knowledge and common sense to solve problems and or achieve work objectives. Knowledge of plant identification is preferable. Ability to follow written and oral instructions, work without supervision on a daily basis, work outdoors in extreme hot, cold, rainy, and windy weather conditions. Willingness to travel within North Dakota with overnight stays.

Some lodging/living facilities are available to employees at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in Mandan, ND. Meals and lodging while the employee is away from their normal working and living residence will be provided based on state reimbursement rates.