Noxious Weed Specialist

The Noxious Weed Specialist must be independent, organized, self-motivated, flexible, and detailed.  This position is a crucial component to the Land & Livestock team and reports to the Director of Land, Livestock & Conservation. You will utilize a variety of techniques including chemical and mechanical methods to manage unwanted or nuisance vegetation. The ranch has implemented a long-term weed control management plan to reduce impacts on native plants from noxious weeds.  The ideal candidate will have an interest in invasive plant management, native plant habitat restoration, or plant science.  The position will run from June 1-August 28, 2024, with some flexibility on start and end dates.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Implementing a weed management program across property. Main duties will include herbicide applications and other methods of vegetation management under the supervision of a certified applicator.
• Perform various work tasks involved in mapping and controlling noxious weeds; hiking, surveying, mapping, plant identification, hand pulling weeds, spraying weeds, in a front country and backcountry setting.
• Position requires chemical applications and the need to mix chemicals, spray weeds with herbicide, rinse, and clean application devices, follow herbicide labels and use personal protective equipment.
• Document spray targets, tracks, and work tasks using a tablet and mapping software.
• Assist in other ranch duties as assigned.
• Organize and maintain a clean work area and take responsibility for orderliness of tools and equipment.
• Assist the Land & Livestock team with other ranch labor, i.e., fence maintenance, operating tractors, irrigation, equipment maintenance.

Qualifications

• Previous farm/ranch work preferred.
• Ability to work independently.
• Experience with herbicides preferred; applicator’s license or willingness to train a plus.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and experience with operating 4-wheeler, side-by-side off-road.
• Must be able to withstand exposure to all kinds of weather while completing work assignments, i.e., rain, heat, sun, cold.
• Must be able to traverse various terrains.
• Must be able to wear necessary PPE as necessary.
• Must be able to maintain focus during dangerous tasks.
• Must be able to lift, move and maneuver up to 50 pounds.
• Must have endurance necessary to perform these duties throughout a standard 8-10 hour day
• Background in range management, weed identification preferred.