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Science, Restoration, and Prescribed Fire – Multiple Positions

 

Our Fire, Science, and Restoration Programs are hiring a suite of positions to support Salish prairie, woodland, and aquatic conservation. These positions will be based on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, which contains approximately 20,000 acres of prairie ecosystems and the largest remnant intact prairie habitat of the region. We are hiring up to eight Technician and Specialist positions. Positions will range from 6-month seasonal to 1-2 year terms. Programmatic goals revolve around reduction of non-native invasive plant species, restoration and establishment of native plant communities, and enhancement of threatened and endangered species habitats. Each of these components are dependent on processes associated with the application of prescribed fire. Positions will have one or more focal areas depending on the candidate’s interests and experience. All positions require a sound work ethic, interpersonal skills, an adaptive mindset, and positive attitude during long field days. Focal areas broadly include the following:

  • Habitat monitoring. Botany survey experience and attention to detail are desired.
  • Butterfly monitoring. Experience with invertebrate identification and transect surveys are preferred but not required.
  • Other monitoring and survey work includes gophers, salmon, and fire effects.
  • Restoration of prairie, oak, pine and aquatic habitats. This entails controlling invasive plant species, native seed collection, and planting/seeding native species.
  • Participation on prescribed ecological fires, which includes NWCG training as needed. Background in prescribed fire desired but not required.

 

Science

Butterfly Monitoring and Restoration Technician

Reports to: Restoration Ecologist Project Manager

Location: Olympia, Washington

Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt Period: Temporary/Seasonal (6-9 months) with potential to extend to Term (1-2 years) Approximately Apr 15-Oct 15, with extension dependent on funding

Benefits: Sick, vacation, holiday PTO for Temporary positions Sick, vacation, holiday PTO; health, dental, vision, retirement for Term positions

Hourly rate: $18.89/hr – $23.25/hr DOE

 

Overview Summary

The Butterfly Monitoring and Restoration Technician (Technician) will work with a team to monitor butterfly and plant populations and maintain and restore prairie and forest habitats in the South Puget Sound region of Washington, primarily focusing on Joint Base Lewis-McChord. This position will primarily work as part of our science and restoration crews. The Technician will start as a full-time seasonal position, is non-exempt, and supervised by the Restoration Ecologist Project Manager.

This position requires a sound work ethic, interpersonal skills, and positive attitude during long field days. Development of positive and effective relationships with volunteers and partners is critical. The Technician must also be able to work independently, completing substantial tasks without direct supervision or through the supervision of conservation partners, including federal and state agency personnel, such as the WA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The South Sound Program is science-based and the Technician will be required to document and appropriately file all data pertinent to the operations on a regular basis.

The Technician is expected to be an integral member of our team, learning and sharing effective and efficient implementation techniques with other team members. The Technician will need to effectively communicate with partners, volunteers and the public concerning specific work and the work of the South Sound Program.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work as part of a team to survey for endangered and at-risk butterfly species.
  • Support other monitoring efforts on habitat conditions, fire effects, and species populations.
  • Learn scientific data collection methods and current restoration techniques as developed and utilized by the science and restoration teams. Communicate the correct and safe implementation of these techniques to other crewmembers, partners and volunteers.
  • Work collaboratively with resource agencies, consultants, and other conservation organizations.
  • Assist with other natural resource management operations as requested including planting and seed collection.
  • Participate in restoration activities, including but not limited to invasive species control using mechanical and chemical methods, native species seeding, and others.
  • Optional participation in prescribed fire activities
  • Maintain records of work performed and communicate to supervisor in a clear and organized manner.
  • Regularly enter data on mobile devices through apps such as ArcGIS FieldMaps and QuickCapture.
  • Lead small groups of volunteers and other staff.
  • Research techniques and best management practices to accomplish project objectives.
  • Conduct and track routine maintenance of all equipment used in implementing duties.
  • Operate equipment such as tractor with rotary brush cutter, engine powered chipper/shredder, chainsaws, hand-operated gas-powered brush cutters, and other heavy and light equipment.
  • Work with personnel, equipment and other resources to successfully complete natural resource management projects.
  • Fulfill other duties as assigned.

 

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Completion of or progress towards BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in science/natural resources-related field or at least two years natural resources or agriculture related experience.
  • Experience working with or surveying for butterflies or other invertebrates is preferred but NOT required.
  • Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems; ability to recognize plant and animal species as required to complete monitoring and natural resource management activities. Knowledge of ecological land management principles.
  • Flexible schedule; ability to work some weekends or have variable hours depending on weather conditions for butterfly surveys.
  • Must have or obtain appropriate driver’s license.
  • Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers) and familiarity with ArcGIS and other database systems.
  • After hiring, may obtain NWCG firefighter type II certification, Washington State pesticide license, first aid, and CPR certification.
  • Ability to operate various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. backpack sprayer, chainsaw, tractor, two-way radio, etc. Training will be provided where needed.)
  • Ability to follow instructions from colleagues and practice effective communication in a team setting.
  • Ability to manage time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results.
  • Ability to perform physical work, frequently under adverse conditions or in inclement weather 

 

OTHER:

  • Full vaccination for Covid-19 is recommended for employment at Ecostudies Institute.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Regularly works in natural areas. Hikes across, and conducts work within, native habitats and uneven ground. Work is anticipated in prairie, forest, wetland and other habitat types.
  • Works in military training areas with nearby training activities including artillery and small arms fire, aviation and military vehicle driving training, etc.
  • Regularly required to operate a Ecostudies Institute vehicle
  • Frequently works independently and as part of a team
  • Responsible for some evening and weekends including travel
  • Uses or supervises the use of pesticides and/or other chemical substances
  • Uses or supervises the use of hand and powered equipment such as shovels, axes, weed trimmers and chain saws
  • Regularly works around wildland fires
  • Regularly lifts, positions, or otherwise moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds

__________

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three professional references in one combined document. In your letter, please indicate which position(s) you are interested in and include approximate availability to start. Individuals who are unsure if they meet all requirements are still encouraged to apply.

Email applications to Sarah Hamman (shamman@ecoinst.org) with the position you are applying to in the subject line. All applications will be acknowledged. 

 

 

 

Vegetation Monitoring and Restoration Technician

Reports to: Applied Ecologist Project Manager

Location: Olympia, Washington

Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt

Period: Temporary (6-9 months) with potential to extend to Term (1 or 2 years)

Benefits: Sick, vacation, holiday PTO for Temporary positions Sick, vacation, holiday PTO; health, dental, vision, retirement for Term positions

Hourly rate: $18.89/hr – $23.25/hr DOE

 

Overview Summary

The Vegetation Monitoring and Restoration Technician (Technician) will work with a team to monitor plant populations and maintain and restore prairie and forest habitats in the South Puget Sound region of Washington, primarily focusing on Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The Technician will also support other monitoring efforts. This position will primarily work as part of our science and restoration crews. The Technician will start as a full-time seasonal position, is non-exempt, and supervised by the Applied Ecologist Project Manager.

This position requires a sound work ethic, interpersonal skills, and positive attitude during long field days. Development of positive and effective relationships with volunteers and partners is critical. The Technician must also be able to work independently, completing substantial tasks without direct supervision or through the supervision of conservation partners, including federal and state agency personnel, such as the WA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The South Sound Program is science-based and the Technician will be required to document and appropriately file all data pertinent to the operations on a regular basis.

The Technician is expected to be an integral member of our team, learning and sharing effective and efficient implementation techniques with other team members. The Technician will need to effectively communicate with partners, volunteers and the public concerning specific work and the work of the South Sound Program.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work as part of a team to collect vegetation species and structure data using transect/pointintercept methods.
  • Support other monitoring efforts on fire effects and species populations.
  • Regularly enter data on mobile devices through apps such as ArcGIS FieldMaps and QuickCapture.
  • Lead small groups of volunteers and other staff.
  • Research techniques and best management practices to accomplish project objectives.
  • Learn scientific data collection methods and current restoration techniques as developed and utilized by the science and restoration teams. Communicate the correct and safe implementation of these techniques to other crewmembers, partners and volunteers.
  • Work collaboratively with resource agencies, consultants, and other conservation organizations.
  • Work with personnel, equipment and other resources to successfully complete natural resource management projects.
  • Participate in restoration activities, including but not limited to invasive species control using mechanical and chemical methods, native species seed collection, and others.
  • Optional participation in prescribed fire activities.
  • Maintain records of work performed and communicate to supervisor in a clear and organized manner.
  • Conduct and track routine maintenance of all equipment used in implementing duties.
  • Operate equipment such as tractor with rotary brush cutter, engine powered chipper/shredder, chainsaws, hand-operated gas-powered brush cutters, and other heavy and light equipment.
  • Fulfill other duties as assigned.

 

REQUIREMENTS

  • Completion of or progress towards BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in science/natural resources-related field or at least two years natural resources or agriculture related experience.
  • Experience surveying for plants including species identification.
  • Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems; ability to recognize plant and animal species as required to complete monitoring and natural resource management activities. Knowledge of ecological land management principles. Must have or obtain appropriate driver’s license.
  • After hiring, may obtain NWCG firefighter type II certification, Washington State pesticide license, first aid, and CPR certification
  • Ability to operate various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. backpack sprayer, chainsaw, tractor, two-way radio, etc. Training will be provided where needed.)
  • Ability to follow instructions from colleagues and practice effective communication in a team setting
  • Ability to manage time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results
  • Ability to perform physical work, frequently under adverse conditions or in inclement weather
  • Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers) and familiarity with ArcGIS and other database systems.

 

OTHER

  • Full vaccination for Covid-19 is recommended for employment at Ecostudies Institute.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Regularly works in natural areas. Hikes across, and conducts work within, native habitats and uneven ground. Work is anticipated in prairie, forest, wetland and other habitat types.
  • Works in military training areas with nearby training activities including artillery and small arms fire, aviation and military vehicle driving training, etc.
  • Regularly required to operate a Ecostudies Institute vehicle
  • Frequently works independently and as part of a team
  • Responsible for some evening and weekends including travel
  • Uses pesticides and/or other chemical substances
  • Uses hand and powered equipment such as shovels, axes, weed trimmers and chain saws
  • Regularly works around wildland fires
  • Regularly lifts, positions, or otherwise moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds 

 

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three professional references in one combined document. In your letter, please indicate which position(s) you are interested in and include approximate availability to start. Individuals who are unsure if they meet all requirements are still encouraged to apply.

Email applications to Sarah Hamman (shamman@ecoinst.org) with the position you are applying to in the subject line. All applications will be acknowledged.

 

 

Restoration 

Restoration Technician

Reports to: Restoration Program Manager

Location: Olympia, Washington Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt

Period: Temporary/Seasonal (6-9 months) or Term (1 or 2 years) Approximately Mar 15-Nov 15, with extension dependent on funding

Benefits: Sick, vacation, holiday PTO; retirement for Temporary positions Sick, vacation, holiday PTO; health, dental, vision, retirement for Term positions

Hourly rate: $18.89 – 23.25 DOE

 

Overview Summary

The Restoration Technician (Technician) will work with a team in the maintenance and restoration of prairie and forest habitats in the South Puget Sound region of Washington, primarily focusing on Joint Base Lewis-McChord. This position will primarily work as part of our fire management and/or invasive species management crew, and entails strenuous physical activity and operation of heavy equipment. The Technician will start as a full-time seasonal position, is non-exempt, and supervised by the Restoration Program Manager. Seasonal Technicians may have the opportunity to transition from Temporary to Term positions.

This position requires a sound work ethic, interpersonal skills, and positive attitude during long field days. Development of positive and effective relationships with volunteers and partners is critical. The Technician must also be able to work independently, completing substantial tasks without direct supervision or through the supervision of conservation partners, including federal and state agency personnel, such as the WA Dept. of Natural Resources, WA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The South Sound Program is science-based and the Technician will be required to document and appropriately file all data pertinent to the operations on a regular basis.

The Technician is expected to be an integral member of our team, learning and sharing effective and efficient implementation techniques with other team members. The Technician will need to effectively communicate with partners, volunteers and the public concerning specific work and the work of the South Sound Program.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Survey and control invasive plants and undesirable native vegetation primarily through herbicide applications.
  • Support monitoring efforts on habitat conditions, fire effects, and species populations.
  • Participate in fire management activities. Conduct burn unit and fireline preparations prior to burning. Participate in controlled burns, mop up, and patrols as a core burn crew member. Conduct post burn follow-up restoration actions like rehab, seeding, and controlling weeds in burned areas.
  • Achieve and maintain qualification as Firefighter Type II under NWCG guidelines. Work towards other advanced qualification encouraged.
  • Maintain records of work performed and communicate to supervisor in a clear and organized manner.
  • Regularly enter data on mobile devices through apps such as ArcGIS FieldMaps and QuickCapture.
  • Lead small groups of volunteers and other staff.
  • Research techniques and best management practices to accomplish project objectives.
  • Conduct and track routine maintenance of all equipment used in implementing duties.
  • Operate equipment such as tractor with rotary brush cutter, engine powered chipper/shredder, chainsaws, hand-operated gas-powered brush cutters, and other heavy and light equipment.
  • Work with personnel, equipment and other resources to successfully complete natural resource management projects.
  • Learn state-of-the-art restoration knowledge as developed and utilized by the restoration team. Communicate the correct and safe implementation of these techniques to other crewmembers, partners and volunteers.
  • Work collaboratively with resource agencies, consultants, and other conservation organizations.
  • Assist with other natural resource management operations as requested including planting and seed collection.
  • Fulfill other duties as assigned.

 

REQUIREMENTS

  • Completion of or progress towards BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in science/natural resources-related field or at least three years natural resources or agriculture related experience
  • Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems; ability to recognize plant and animal species as required to complete natural resource management activities. Knowledge of ecological land management principles
  • Must obtain appropriate driver’s license, Washington State pesticide license, first aid, CPR, and NWCG firefighter type II certification
  • Ability to operate various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. backpack sprayer, chainsaw, tractor, two-way radio, etc.)
  • Ability to follow instructions from colleagues and practice effective communication in a team setting
  • Ability to manage time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results
  • Ability to perform physical work, frequently under adverse conditions or in inclement weather
  • Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers) and familiarity with ArcGIS and other database systems

 

OTHER:

• Full vaccination for Covid-19 is recommended for employment at Ecostudies Institute.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Regularly works in natural areas. Hikes across, and conducts work within, native habitats and uneven ground. Work is anticipated in prairie, forest, wetland and other habitat types.
  • Works in military training areas with nearby training activities including artillery and small arms fire, aviation and military vehicle driving training, etc. • Regularly required to operate a Ecostudies Institute vehicle
  • Frequently works independently and as part of a team
  • Responsible for some evening and weekends including travel
  • Uses or supervises the use of pesticides and/or other chemical substances
  • Uses or supervises the use of hand and powered equipment such as shovels, axes, weed trimmers and chain saws
  • Regularly works around wildland fires
  • Regularly lifts, positions, or otherwise moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds

__________

HOW TO APPLY

Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three professional references in one combined document. In your letter, please indicate which positions you are interested in and include approximate availability to start. Individuals who are unsure if they meet all requirements are still encouraged to apply.

 

 

Restoration Specialist

Title: Restoration Specialist Reports to: Restoration Program Manager

Location: Olympia, Washington

Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt

Period: Temporary/Seasonal (6-9 months) or Term (1 or 2 years) Approximately Mar 15-Nov 15, with extension dependent on funding

Benefits: Sick, vacation, holiday PTO; retirement for Temporary positions Sick, vacation, holiday PTO; health, dental, vision, retirement for Term positions

Hourly rate: $23.55 – 28.79 DOE

 

Overview Summary
The Restoration Specialist (Specialist) will work with a team in the maintenance and restoration of prairie sites, primarily at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) and in the South Puget Sound. This position will have a range of restoration responsibilities in support of the program’s regional conservation goals. The Specialist will also take a lead position in various project areas. Duties may include, monitoring and control of invasive plant species, establishing and monitoring native vegetation, participation on controlled burns and monitoring wildlife. The Specialist will instruct other members of the prairie restoration team in their specialty area. The Specialist will also work with project leaders and partners to plan and lead the implementation of tasks in their specialty. The position entails strenuous physical activity and operation of heavy equipment, sometimes within active military training areas on JBLM. Seasonal Specialists may have the opportunity to transition from Temporary to Term positions.

This position requires a high-level of responsibility and interpersonal skills, sound work ethic, and positive attitude during long field days. Development of positive and effective relationships with volunteers and partners is critical. The Specialist must also be able to work independently, completing substantial tasks without direct supervision or through the supervision of conservation partners, including state agency personnel, such as the WA Dept. of Natural Resources or WA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife. The South Sound Prairie Program is science-based, and the Specialist will be required to document, report and share all data pertinent to the operations on a regular basis.

The Specialist is expected to be an integral member of our team. The Specialist will become a staff information source on the effective and efficient implementation of restoration actions. The Specialist will need to be able to communicate effectively with partners, volunteers and the public concerning specific work and the work of the South Sound Program.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Plan, implement and coordinate specialty projects. Manage logistics, crew members and personally conduct management actions.
  • Communicate successes and lessons learned to partners, Ecostudies Institute staff, and the public through written reports, presentations and other methods. Suitable results should also be communicated to the scientific community through published reports or other appropriate means.
  • Work with personnel, equipment and other resources to successfully complete prairie restoration projects
  • Develop and implement protocols to ensure proper collection and management of geographic and other data. This requires proficiency in handheld GIS data collection
  • Operate equipment such as tractor, chainsaws, hand-operated gas-powered brush cutters, engine powered chipper/shredder, and other heavy and light equipment. (Training will be provided where needed)
  • Conduct routine maintenance of all equipment used in implementing duties
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the restoration techniques utilized by the restoration team and communicate the correct and safe implementation of these techniques to other crew members, partners, and volunteers
  • Be the primary resource for the Restoration Team concerning information and implementation within their specialty, lead crew members on projects and tasks related to their specialty, produce concise and informative reports on the projects and tasks that are led by the Specialist
  • Participate on prescribed ecological burns. Maintain minimum qualification as Firefighter Type II under NWCG guidelines (training provided where needed). Work towards advanced qualifications such as Firing Boss and Engine Boss
  • May initiate and administer service contracts, ensuring contract compliance and fulfillment of deliverables
  • May develop and manage project operation budgets and prepare progress and final project reports
  • Assist with other natural resource management operations as requested including planting, seeding, seed collection, herbicide application, and controlled burning activities
  • Other duties as assigned

 

REQUIREMENTS

  • At least two years progress towards BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in science-related field and one-year related experience in natural resources/agriculture/outdoor management or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems; ability to recognize plant and animal species as required to complete management activities. Knowledge of ecological land management principles.
  • Ability to operate various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g.; lawn mower, chainsaw, tractor, two-way radio, etc. Training will be provided where needed.)
  • Ability to follow instructions from colleagues and practice effective communication in a team setting
  • Ability to manage time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results
  • Ability to perform physical work, frequently under adverse conditions or in inclement weather
  • Be able to obtain related licenses or certifications such as first aid, CPR, Washington State pesticide license, driver’s license, Firefighter Type II qualification.
  • Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers) and familiarity with ArcMap GIS and other database systems.

 

OTHER:

• Full vaccination for Covid-19 is recommended for employment at Ecostudies Institute.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Regularly works in natural areas. Hikes across, and conducts work within, native habitats and uneven ground.
  • Works in military training areas with nearby training activities including artillery and small arms fire, aviation and military vehicle driving training, etc.
  • Regularly sits or stands at a desk or computer workstation
  • Regularly required to operate a Ecostudies Institute vehicle
  • Frequently works independently and as part of a team
  • May be requested to work some evenings and weekends, and/or travel
  • Uses or supervises the use of pesticides and or other chemical substances
  • Uses or supervises the use of powered equipment such as weed trimmers and chain saws
  • Regularly works around wildland fires
  • Uses hand tools and operates various equipment
  • Regularly lifts, positions, or otherwise moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds

 

__________

HOW TO APPLY

Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three professional references in one combined document. In your letter, please indicate which positions you are interested in and include approximate availability to start. Individuals who are unsure if they meet all requirements are still encouraged to apply.

Email applications to Catie Porro (cporro@ecoinst.org) with the position you are applying to in the subject line. All applications will be acknowledged.

 

Prescribed Fire

Fire and Restoration Technician

Reports to: Fire Program Manager Location: Olympia, Washington

Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt

Period: Temporary/Seasonal (6-9 months) or Term (1 or 2 years) Approximately Mar 15-Nov 15, with extension dependent on funding

Benefits: Sick, vacation, holiday PTO; retirement for Temporary positions Sick, vacation, holiday PTO; health, dental, vision, retirement for Term positions

Hourly rate: $18.89 – 23.25 DOE

 

Overview Summary

The Fire and Restoration Technician (Technician) will work with a team in the maintenance and restoration of prairie and forest habitats in the South Puget Sound region of Washington, primarily focusing on Joint Base Lewis-McChord. This position will work as part of our fire management crew and entails strenuous physical activity and operation of heavy equipment. The Technician will start as a fulltime seasonal position, is non-exempt, and supervised by the Fire Program Manager. Seasonal Technicians may have the opportunity to transition from temporary to Term staff.

This position requires a sound work ethic, interpersonal skills, and positive attitude during long field days. Development of positive and effective relationships with volunteers and partners is critical. The Technician must also be able to work independently, completing substantial tasks without direct supervision or through the supervision of conservation partners, including federal and state agency personnel, such as the WA Dept. of Natural Resources, WA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The South Sound Program is science-based and the Technician will be required to document and appropriately file all data pertinent to the operations on a regular basis.

The Technician is expected to be an integral member of our team, learning and sharing effective and efficient implementation techniques with other team members. The Technician will need to effectively communicate with partners, volunteers and the public concerning specific work and the work of the South Sound Program.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Participate in fire management activities. Conduct burn unit and fireline preparations prior to burning. Participate on controlled burns, mop up and patrols as a core burn crew member. Conduct post burn follow-up restoration actions like rehab, seeding and controlling weeds in burned areas.
  • Achieve and maintain qualification as Firefighter Type I under NWCG guidelines. Work towards other advanced qualification encouraged.
  • Maintain records of work performed and communicate to supervisor in a clear and organized manner.
  • Lead small groups of volunteers and other staff.
  • Research techniques and best management practices to accomplish project objectives.
  • Conduct and track routine maintenance of all equipment used in implementing duties.
  • Survey and control invasive plants and undesirable native vegetation primarily through herbicide applications.
  • Operate equipment such as tractor with rotary brush cutter, engine powered chipper/shredder, chain saws, hand-operated gas-powered brush cutters and other heavy and light equipment.
  • Work with personnel, equipment and other resources to successfully complete natural resource management projects.
  • Learn state-of-the-art restoration knowledge as developed and utilized by the restoration team. Communicate the correct and safe implementation of these techniques to other crewmembers, partners and volunteers.
  • Work collaboratively with resource agencies, consultants, and other conservation organizations.
  • Assist with other natural resource management operations as requested including planting, seed collection, and monitoring.
  • Fulfill other duties as assigned.

 

REQUIREMENTS

  • Completion of or progress towards BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in science/natural resources-related field or at least three years natural resources or agriculture related experience.
  • Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems; ability to recognize plant and animal species as required to complete natural resource management activities. Knowledge of ecological land management principles.
  • Must obtain appropriate driver’s license, Washington State pesticide license, first aid, CPR, and NWCG firefighter Type II certification.
  • Ability to operate various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. backpack sprayer, chainsaw, tractor, two-way radio, etc.)
  • Ability to follow instructions from colleagues and practice effective communication in a team setting
  • Ability to manage time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results
  • Ability to perform physical work, sometimes under adverse conditions or in inclement weather
  • Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers) and familiarity or willingness to learn ArcGIS and other database systems

 

OTHER:

  • Full vaccination for Covid-19 is recommended for employment at Ecostudies Institute.

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Regularly works in natural areas. Hikes across, and conducts work within, native habitats and uneven ground. Work is anticipated in prairie, forest, wetland and other habitat types.
  • Works in military training areas with nearby training activities including artillery and small arms fire, aviation and military vehicle driving training, etc.
  • Regularly required to operate an Ecostudies Institute vehicle
  • Frequently works independently and as part of a team
  • Responsible for some evening and weekends including travel
  • Uses or supervises the use of pesticides and or other chemical substances
  • Uses or supervises the use of hand and powered equipment such as shovels, axes, weed trimmers and chain saws
  • Regularly works around wildland fires
  • Regularly lifts, positions, or otherwise moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds

 

__________

HOW TO APPLY

Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for three professional references in one combined document. In your letter, please indicate which positions you are interested in and include approximate availability to start. Individuals who are unsure if they meet all requirements are still encouraged to apply.

Email applications to Mason McKinley (mmckinley@ecoinst.org) with the position you are applying to in the subject line. All applications will be acknowledged.

Prescribed Fire Project Manager

Reports to: Restoration Director

Location: Olympia, Washington

Type: Full-time, Permanent, Salary (Benefits: health, dental, vision, sick/vacation/holiday PTO, retirement)

Period: Permanent Salary Range: $60,299 to $73,258 DOE

 

Overview Summary

This position will primarily work collaboratively to coordinate and help manage prescribe fire activities at Joint Base Lewis-McChord that further the conservation and recovery of listed, special status, and other imperiled species and their habitats. The position may lead or support other projects and is expected to contribute to the overall growth and development of the organization. This position requires a high-level of responsibility, interpersonal skills, sound work ethic, and positive attitude. Development and maintenance of positive and effective relationships with staff, partners and volunteers is critical.

The Prescribed Fire Project Manager (Project Manager) will work with an integrated team in the maintenance and restoration of prairie and forest habitats in the South Puget Sound region of Washington, mostly focusing on Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). This position will primarily work as part of our fire management team and will work closely with the JBLM fire program but may support other restoration and science projects. The work will shift seasonally, supporting burn planning, burn unit preparations, training, monitoring fire effects, collaboration and coordination, prescribed burning, patrols and fire readiness. This position is a crucial part of the fire program’s core leadership. The Project Manager will provide oversight for field work and provide regular progress reports and will participate in burn unit prep activities. This position entails strenuous physical activity and operation of heavy equipment.

This position requires a sound work ethic, organizational and interpersonal skills, and positive attitude. Development of positive and effective relationships with volunteers and partners is critical. The Project Manager must be able to work independently and collaboratively and lead long and short-term projects. The Project Manager is expected to be an integral member of our team, learning and sharing effective and efficient implementation techniques with other team members. The Technician will need to effectively communicate with partners, volunteers and the public concerning specific work and the work of the South Sound Program.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

This position supports a cooperative project, requiring coordination with other staff and multiple partners, contractors and volunteers. The position will primarily focus on providing ecological prescribed fire management support at JBLM. Responsibilities include burn planning, short and long-term coordination, logistics and crew leadership for unit prep, burn implementation and post burn follow-up, and reports and presentations to broader conservation community. This position will also be involved with training of staff, partners and volunteers as well as building and maintaining burn team cohesion and effectiveness. This position may at times also support other projects, such as restoration, species and habitat monitoring, etc.

  • Support burn planning, burn season preparations.
  • Support burn team fire training
  • Coordinate burn unit preparations throughout the year
  • Help maintain spatial databases for planning and documenting fire management actions
  • Adaptively and cooperatively manage competing priorities and timelines meeting diverse objectives across multiple projects and partners.
  • Coordinate with other projects to develop scheduling plans and support logistics. 
  • Support fire effects monitoring efforts as needed.
  • Identify gaps in technical knowledge or practices and help investigate new strategies and tactics.
  • Initiate and administer service contracts, ensuring contract compliance and fulfillment of deliverables
  • Develop and manage project operation budgets and prepare progress and final project reports
  • Communicate successes and lessons learned to partners, staff and the public through written reports, presentations and other methods. Suitable results should also be communicated to the scientific community through published reports or other appropriate means.
  • Conduct or assist with monthly, annual and final reporting.
  • Provide essential support to the regional ecological fire program, coordinating resources and continuing development as a wildland firefighter.
  • Other duties as assigned

 

REQUIREMENTS:

  • At least 5 years of combined education and related work experience related to land management, ecology, wildland fire and project management. At least three of those years should be in wildland fire – preferably with significant prescribed fire experience.
  • Must have or be willing to achieve at least Single Resource Boss level qualification that meet NWCG standards. Position is encouraged to work towards Burn Boss Type 2 qualification.
  • Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems; ability to recognize plant and animal species as required to complete management activities
  • Knowledge of ecological land management principles
  • Ability to lead and complete tasks independently and collaboratively. Set and follow reasonable project timelines. Manage time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results.
  • Maintain a working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers) and current GIS/spatial data management applications
  • Capability to safely use tools and equipment appropriate to fire management, restoration and maintenance.

 

DISCRETION/LATITUDE/DECISION-MAKING:

  • Makes independent decisions based on analysis, experience and judgment
  • Perform under minimal and frequently distant supervision, consulting with supervisor in event of any unusual circumstance, problem or question that falls outside of general preserve management realm

 

RESPONSIBILITY/OVERSIGHT – FINANCIAL AND SUPERVISORY:

  • Supervise administrative and professional staff with responsibility for performance management, training and development
  • May lead or monitor work groups consisting of staff, interns, and volunteers covering a wide geographic area
  • Financial responsibility may include working within/managing a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors, assisting with budget development and meeting fundraising targets

 

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Regularly works in natural areas. Hikes across, and conducts work within, native habitats and uneven ground. Work is anticipated in prairie, forest, wetland and other habitat types.
  • Works in military training areas with nearby training activities including artillery and small arms fire, aviation and military vehicle driving training, etc.
  • Regularly required to operate a Ecostudies Institute vehicle and equipment
  • Frequently works independently and as part of a team
  • Responsible for some evening and weekends including travel
  • Uses or supervises the use of pesticides and/or other chemical substances
  • Uses or supervises the use of hand and powered equipment such as shovels, axes, weed trimmers and chain saws
  • Regularly works around wildland fires
  • Regularly lifts, positions, or otherwise moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds

 

HOW TO APPLY

Qualified applicants should submit a letter of interest, resume, and contact informa on for three professional references in one combined document. In your letter, please indicate which posi ons you are interested in and include approximate availability to start. Individuals who are unsure if they meet all requirements are still encouraged to apply.

Email applications to Mason McKinley (mmckinley@ecoinst.org) with the posi on you are applying to in the subject line. All applications will be acknowledged.