SCI Seasonal Invasive Technician

Overview

SERP seeks one (1) Seasonal Invasive Technician for invasive plant mapping, control, and other botany-related projects on San Clemente Island, a Naval installation in southern California. The position requires arduous manual labor, working outdoors in all weather, heavy lifting and carrying, and working on rugged terrain. Reporting to the Invasive Plant and Botany Project Manager, the technician will work with a crew of up to two other technicians and five permanent staff members. The position starts on January 5, 2027, and ends in June 2027. It is a full-time, hourly position with a compensation of $24.65/hour plus a full benefits package. Housing is provided while working on San Clemente Island. The work schedule is 10 days on-island and 4 days off-island. Transportation to and from the island is provided by a twin-engine 19-seater plane. Relocation benefits are not offered. All work will be conducted on San Clemente Island, owned and operated by the U.S. Navy.

Responsibilities

• Invasive Control Field Work (60%)
• Monitor invasive plant populations
• Control invasive plants manually, mechanically, and chemically
• Other Restoration Field Work (20%)
• Maintain and monitor native species outplantings
• Collect native plant propagules
• Propagate native plants
• Data Entry and Other Office Work (15%)
• Use GPS in the field and GIS software
• Enter data and maintain databases
• Other Duties and Responsibilities as assigned (5%)

Qualifications

• MINIMUM EDUCATION: Completion of sufficient lower division coursework
• OR - Equivalent of one year related experience in lieu of coursework
• Knowledge and Abilities:
• Ability to interact effectively with co-workers, contractors, and Navy personnel
• Ability to understand and follow posted work rules and procedures
• Ability to relate well to others within the project environment
• Ability to display motivation and strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Ability to display organization, meet deadlines, and display detail orientation
• Ability to demonstrate a high level of cross-cultural sensitivity
• Passion for Southern California flora
• Experience performing strenuous labor with a high level of physical endurance under a variety of weather and work conditions
• Ability to repeatedly lift loads of up to 45 lbs throughout the workday and to safely navigate and work off-trail on steep, rocky, cactus-covered terrain
• Highly motivated individual with a high energy level and strong interpersonal skills
• Possess good judgment and common sense
• Valid driver’s license, good driving record, and ability to drive 4-wheel-drive vehicles
• Valid California Qualified Applicator Certificate or ability to become certified within 2 months of hiring

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SPECIAL SKILLS

• Bachelor’s degree in botany, ecology, biology, or related discipline
• Previous experience in invasive plant control
• Familiarity with Southern California flora
• Experience with GIS
• Experience safely operating and maintaining mechanical equipment, hand tools, and herbicide application equipment
• Experience maintaining and repairing small engines and motor vehicles

Additional Applicant Information

• Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
• SDSU Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.