Spartina Control Crew – Willapa Bay, WA
Organization: Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Job Title: Willapa Bay Spartina Control Crew (natural resource worker 2)
Location: Willapa Bay, WA
Hours and Compensation: seasonal job, hours depend on tides, $2,161 – $2,705 per month
Position Dates: seasonal
Application Deadline: open until filled
Posted on: May 7
Organization Overview
Under the leadership of the Commissioner of Public Lands, our work at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is done with the public’s interest in mind, which means transparency and public knowledge. Our decisions are guided by sound science as we manage state trust lands, native ecosystems and natural resources. We support the vision of a sustainable future by protecting and managing the natural resources so future generations will have them.
DNR manages over 5 million acres of state-owned land that includes forest, range, commercial, agricultural and aquatic lands. We generate revenue that supports public schools, state institutions and county services. But managing lands is only half of our story. We also protect other public resources such as fish, wildlife, water, and provide public access to outdoor recreation. Two of our largest and most important state-wide resource protection responsibilities are fire prevention and suppression, and overseeing forest practices.
The DNR has a biennial operating budget of approximately $165 million and has over 1100 permanent employees with approximately 300 additional staff hired during the summer fire season.
Description/ Responsibilities
Spartina alterniflora is a noxious weed that has invaded the intertidal waters and salt marshes of Willapa Bay. This grass is an introduced species that can displace native mud flats and salt marshes. These mud flats and salt marshes support a rich variety of organisms including algae, eelgrass, clams, oysters, crab, fish, birds, invertebrates, and marine mammals. Spartina with its growth rate and spread can crowd out native biota, as well as alter the physical characteristics of Willapa Bay.
In response to this noxious weed infestation, the Department of Natural Resources has an ongoing program to eradicate Spartina in Willapa Bay.
Under direction of the Invasive Species Program Operations Coordinator crew members conduct field operations through an integrated pest management approach. This approach involves: operating mechanical equipment; operating chemical application equipment; removing spartina plants manually; operating specialized equipment such as a swamp buggy, ATV, and airboats to access remote sites for control work; and performing routine maintenance, upkeep, and daily cleaning of equipment.
The schedule is set by best available tides and is subject to change based on weather. Work hours are based on four 10-hour days, but days and times vary throughout the course of the season.
Qualifications
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• High school graduation or GED
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
• Interest in natural resource restoration.
• Boat operations experience.
• Labor and/or field work experience.
• Experience with mechanical/small engine repair.
SPECIAL POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
• Ability to work on uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
• The incumbent in this position is required to travel.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and have two years of driving experience.
• Must be 18 years of age at the time of hire.
How to Apply:
To be considered for this position, please submit:
• A letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position profile, required and desired position qualifications, and special position requirements. Please indicate in your letter of interest how you learned of this opportunity.
• A completed application – DNR Job Application and a Resume.
• The names of three to five professional references.
• An online voluntary Applicant Profile Questionnaire. (This form is not required and is submitted online. Please do not print out and send in with application materials).
• Finalists will be asked to provide an employment/commercial driving record issued from the state in which you are currently licensed.
The first screening will be based on information contained in your candidate materials.
Submit all materials to:
(Electronic method preferred)
OR other method to:
Melody Wolf
Department of Natural Resources
PO BOX 47033
Olympia, WA 98504-7033
NOTE: Please indicate #2012-04-7012,7016,7014 in the subject line of your e-mail.
By submitting the application materials you are indicating that all information is true and correct to the best of your knowledge. You understand that the state may verify information and that untruthful or misleading information is cause for removal from applicant pool or dismissal if employed.
Questions? Please contact Todd Brownlee at phone number (360) 642-0041 or e-mail us at [email protected].
