Resource Conservation Technician Crew Lead

Position Summary
The Resource Conservation Technician Crew Lead is responsible for overseeing and coordinating a crew of technicians in completing various riparian restoration tasks. This position requires expertise in mechanical and chemical weed control, planting native trees and shrubs, harvesting and preparing plant materials, and installing wood/post structures in streams. The Crew Lead will work closely with project managers to determine fieldwork needs and develop a weekly schedule of work. Additionally, they will independently manage and track hours, equipment, travel, inventory, and other logistical aspects of the crew's operations.

Supervising subordinate staff and volunteers is an integral part of the role, ensuring that tasks are assigned effectively and carried out according to established protocols. The Crew Lead will also operate and maintain hand tools and small engine machinery, ensuring they are in proper working condition. They will be responsible for independently storing, tracking, and cleaning all tools used in the field, as well as organizing the warehouse, creating tool Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and coordinating tool replacements with project managers.

 

Driving and operating district fleet vehicles is a regular responsibility, including general cleaning and assisting with any maintenance needs. The Crew Lead must adhere to all district safety rules and policies, actively participating in incident reporting and providing suggestions for updates to safety guidance. In addition to the primary restoration tasks, the Crew Lead will assist the Resource Conservation Program with general tasks, such as creating maps, making suggestions about planting plans, assisting with Tree Sale coordination, or data entry.

Effective communication and outreach are essential components of the role. The Crew Lead will provide updates on program and project activities to co-workers, granting agencies, PCD Board of Supervisors, project partners, and the community. They will also play a vital role in enhancing public awareness and knowledge of the value of healthy natural resources and the importance of maintaining diverse, productive, and sustainable watersheds.

Position Details
FTE: Full Time (40 hours/week)
Compensation: $21.21-$27.57/hour (DOE)
Position Type: Regular (benefit eligible)

 
Required Qualifications

• Technical Degree (AS/AA) in Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences or a closely related field. Qualifying experience may substitute year-for-year for the education requirement.

• Six (6) months of previous experience working as a field crew member.

• Physically able to perform field activities for extended periods of time.

• Strong attention to detail, communication, and organization skills. 

• Experience in operation and maintenance of field tools (i.e. chain saws, brush cutters, power tools).

• Possess a valid, unrestricted driver’s license.

• Washington Herbicide Applicators license, or ability to obtain within the first month of hire.

 

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources, Environmental Sciences or a related field.

• Experience planting native trees and shrubs.

• Experience mechanically or chemically controlling invasive weeds.

• Experience in supervisory role.

 

Application Instructions
To apply, please click the link here.

Please be prepared to submit a letter of interest and a resume by Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Applications that do not include both a letter of interest and resume will not be considered. Palouse Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer.

Position Description
To view a full position description, please click the link here.