The primary responsibility of this position is to direct, oversee and monitor vegetation management measures in the Everglades Stormwater Treatment Areas (STAs) and other constructed wetlands managed by the District. Management measures are employed to ensure establishment and maintenance of desired vegetation communities and control plant species that impact water quality treatment capabilities.

The incumbent will instruct and direct District contractors in aerial and ground application of herbicides, mechanical removal of undesirable vegetation, and measures to promote establishment of desired plant species, including supplemental plantings. The incumbent will also be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the progress of these vegetation management efforts.

The incumbent will report to the STA Senior Supervising Scientist and will work closely with other Section staff in coordinating STA vegetation management activities in a timely and efficient manner. The incumbent will conduct routine inspections of contractors engaged in vegetation management measures, complete inspection reports, and assist with preparation of vegetation management plans and statements of work. The incumbent will also provide logistical support to Section staff engaged in vegetation management field studies and occasionally perform herbicide applications for smaller projects.

Applicants must have an education background and practical work experience in vegetation management, good verbal and written communication skills, ability to plan and manage heavy workloads, enthusiasm and temperament for dealing with harsh wetland field conditions, and willingness and commitment to actively contribute to a collaborative team work effort. Florida wetland plant identification and airboat operation skills are preferred.

Employment Guidelines
Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Sciences and 2+ years of experience in vegetation management work. Or, an Associate’s Degree in Natural or Physical Science or related field and 4+ years of experience in vegetation management work.

Equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Licenses
Valid State of Florida Driver’s License. Possession or ability to acquire within 180 days State of Florida pesticide applicators license with Aquatic certification. District airboat certification will be required within 180 days of hire.

Physical Requirements/Working Environment
The work environment is a combination of field work (80%) and office work (20%), with regular exposure to a hot and humid environment in remote and heavy vegetative areas, with exposure to stinging/biting insects, snakes, and alligators. May be required to lift up to 60 lbs.

Additional physical requirements include agility, balancing, basic water skills and ability to swim, driving vehicles, kneeling, moving/transporting equipment, walking through rough terrain, working in, on, or near water.

Due to the District’s response role and in the total scope of emergency management, this position may at times, be required to provide support before, during and after major storm events and emergency situations, such as hurricanes or other declared emergencies. This position is a member of the Emergency Debris Operations Team.

Veterans’ Preference
Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veteran’s Preference will receive preference in employment for vacancies and are encouraged to apply. Candidates claiming Veterans’ preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code. All documentation is due by the close of the job posting.