Vegetation Management Member – Saguaro National Park

Overview

Summary American Conservation Experience, a nonprofit Conservation Corps, in partnership with Saguaro National Park is seeking Three Members to contribute to Vegetation Management projects alongside NPA Staff. For more information about ACE, please visit our website.

Start Date: June 16, 2026 Estimated End Date: December 4, 2026

Location
:
Saguaro National Park is located outside of the city of Tucson, AZ. The park hosts camping, hiking, and backpacking trails for every level of adventurer. It protects the giant saguaro cactus. Summers in the Sonoran Desert can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 110 degrees and evening lows averaging 72 degrees. Winters offer daytime temperatures in the 60s with cooler nights around 40 degrees.

Tucson provides major amenities within about a 20-minute drive from the park.

Position overview and project scope are within Saguaro National Park's Science and Resource Management Division with a focus on invasive plant control. ACE Members will join a team of biologists, biological technicians, volunteers, and interns. Projects will occur in both districts of the park in Tucson and will include training in plant identification, plant removal, herbicide use and mixing, GPS/GIS data collection, and backcountry survey techniques.

Occasional backcountry work may require camping at elevations up to 8,600 feet. Duties include backcountry surveys for non-native plants, springs/wetlands, cultural resources, and forest health indicators.

• Invasive plant control work, primarily manual and chemical treatment
• Receive safety and herbicide training; follow all safety guidelines and wear appropriate PPE
• Work primarily in backcountry; may also operate alongside roads and trails; accommodate extreme weather and rugged desert terrain
• Map localized infestations and treated areas using GPS, Trimble handhelds, and GIS software (Arc Pro)
• Navigate using GPS tools and participate in data collection and processing
• Engage in professional development and networking with land management agencies

Required:

• U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident as required by U.S. government contracts
• Professional, positive, and enthusiastic representation of ACE and partner organizations
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Valid driver’s license and insurable driving record (documentation available upon request)
• Willing to undergo and pass two park criminal history checks
• Commitment to bi-weekly timesheets, term feedback forms, and evaluations
• No participation in prohibited activities per the Member Service Agreement
• To learn more about eligibility requirements, visit ACE website

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree or current pursuit in environmental science, botany, ecosystem restoration, natural resource management, or related field
• Knowledge of GIS/GPS equipment; ability to hike and spend long hours in the backcountry

• Physical Demands:
  Frequent standing, walking, hiking, carrying, and handling; ability to hike over rough terrain and camp overnight
• Weight lifted:
  Frequently up to 20 lbs.; may move up to 40 lbs
• Environmental:
  Outdoor conditions; exposed to extreme heat and variable climates; physically demanding work

Environmental Conditions/Hazards: May encounter extreme heat or cold, rocky terrain, wetlands, biting insects, and wildlife. Work performed in a safe and orderly manner to protect self and others.

Vehicle and Equipment Use/Safety: Vehicles provided if required; PPE supplied and safety protocols must be followed.

This is a full-time position; members are expected to contribute up to 40 hours per week.

Living Allowance: Approximately $800/week, dispersed bi-weekly.

Housing: Not provided by ACE or NPS; a housing allowance of $100/month is available.

Gear Allowance: Up to $250 for eligible gear purchases with prior approval.

Provided Training/Orientation: Position-specific training, orientation on ACE policies, and procedures including safety, data collection, and field practices.

To Apply: Submit your resume, a cover letter addressing your interest and experience, and contact information for three professional/academic references via the online application on ACE’s website. Early consideration is advised as this position may close at any time. For questions, contact Western Member Manager, Vanesa Rogan.

Acceptance
:
If you meet at least 70 percent of the qualifications, we encourage you to apply.

EEO: ACE is an equal opportunity employer. ACE participates in E-Verify and will provide Form I-9 information to the federal government as required for employment eligibility.

Salary: $800 per week