Temporary Aquatic Invasive Species Strike Team Technician

Who We Are

The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University's second largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: We believe that achieving next-generation scientific breakthroughs requires an understanding of the world's complex, interlocking systems. We believe that access to nutritious food and a healthy environment is a fundamental human right. We believe that ensuring a prosperous global future depends on the ability to support local people and communities everywhere. By working in and across multiple scientific areas, CALS can address challenges and opportunities of the greatest relevance, here in New York, across the nation, and around the world.

The Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering (BEE) is one of the largest of its kind in the country with a very diverse faculty, staff, and student population. The department serves three integrated functions: teaching undergraduate and graduate students, researching problems in biology and the environment, and public outreach to help society implement new knowledge.

The New York State Water Resources Institute (NYSWRI) resides within CALS and BEE. Its mission is to improve the management of water resources in New York State and the nation. NYSWRI collaborates with regional, state, and national partners to increase awareness of emerging water resource issues and to develop and assess new water resource management approaches, technologies, and policies. NYSWRI connects water research and water management communities.

What You Will Do

As the Aquatic Invasive Species Field Technician, you will conduct detailed field surveys of aquatic plants, invertebrates, and additional biotic/abiotic factors as assigned following standardized methodology. Participate in regional aquatic plant restoration program, including plant propagation, installation, and greenhouse/lab maintenance. Assist with general calibration and maintenance of pesticide application equipment. Other duties include:

• Perform detailed identification of invasive pests to assist in determining appropriate pesticide application strategies.
• Conduct point-intercept rake-toss surveys safely and effectively from a motorized vessel in lentic and lotic systems.
• Perform general equipment maintenance, inspection, and troubleshooting of field and related research equipment.
• Assist with digital field data collection, analysis, and preparation of detailed site reports on work completed.
• Perform manual aquatic invasive plant removals in collaboration with local stakeholder groups.
• Conduct stream macroinvertebrate monitoring for invasive crayfish and mollusks.

What We Need

We are looking for a talented individual who excels at building and maintaining effective relationships with multiple stakeholders. We need someone who wants to assist with multiple aquatic invasive species monitoring and control projects. Additionally, we need someone who has the following:

• Strong interest in aquatic invasive species management.
• Ability to be comfortable with insects that bite and sting and animal encounters, including snakes (rare), spiders, and other aquatic insects and invertebrates.
• Willingness to assist with aquatic herbicide applications.
• Must be able to wear proper protective equipment to avoid exposure to toxic chemicals, using extreme caution when handling and applying.
• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.
• Must be able to swim short distances unassisted.
• Ability to perform research underwater (wading and snorkeling).
• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.
• Ability to physically work in field locations that can be difficult to access.
• Must be able to navigate uneven terrain, hills, etc.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work well with others is required while creating a high-quality and respectful work environment.
• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position, have access to reliable transportation, and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver's license.
• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.
• Experience in and/or demonstrated commitment to supporting diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and well-being.
• Passionate about working in an organization that values and promotes diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, and well-being.

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you! There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

• College education in ecology, biology, natural resources management, or related field.
• Experience with the operation and trailering of a motorboat.
• Basic knowledge and ability to identify native and invasive aquatic vegetation of New York.
• Experience with data collection applications (Survey123, BioBase EcoSound) and Microsoft and Google editing suites (Word, Excel, Docs, Sheets).
• Experience using multiple GPS devices to navigate.
• Demonstrated experience with aquatic invasive plant monitoring and management.

This is a temporary appointment (39 hours/week) and will be located in Buffalo, New York, running from May 15, 2025, to November 16, 2025.

Rewards and Benefits

We hope you appreciate great benefits. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, well-being, sustainability, and diversity initiatives.

• Compensation is $22.85/hour.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Life. Changing.

No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

How to Apply:

You must submit both a resume/CV and cover letter.

EEO Statement

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.

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EEO Statement:

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University's heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, and we do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex/gender, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual's genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

Cornell University embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff to all identities and backgrounds. We encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.