Invasive Plant Management Team Lead

The Alaska Center for Conservation Science (ACCS) at the University of Alaska Anchorage seeks an experienced Invasive Plant Management Team Lead to document and assess field conditions, trends, and ecological correlations of invasive plants. The position focuses on carrying out field studies on plants and plant ecology using a variety of methods in remote natural settings; inventorying and monitoring invasive plants and seed collecting projects;

leading field crews in invasive plant eradication; and developing improved methods of controlling weeds and plant diseases.

• Plant identification and field documentation: Identify plant species and document their occurrence and distribution. Record and assess field conditions, trends, and ecological correlations.
• Invasive Plant Management: Apply appropriate methods for invasive plant eradication and problem-solving. Safely store, handle and apply herbicides to target species.
• Field Equipment & Safety: Operate and maintain resource management tools and monitoring equipment. Follow wilderness safety protocols and Leave No Trace principles.
• Geospatial & Data
  
  Skills:
  
  Collect and manage GPS and GIS data using ESRI software. Conduct quality control and assurance for geospatial datasets. Use statistical software and select appropriate statistical analyses.
• Management & Project Leadership: Plan, organize, and oversee project logistics to meet outlined goals. Independently determine appropriate methods and procedures for assignments. Ensure timely delivery of reports, data products, and operational outcomes in alignment with National Park Service standards.

This position involves conducting field studies in remote natural areas, leading invasive plant eradication efforts, developing improved weed control methods, managing logistics, coordinating travel, and collaborating closely with ACCS staff and the NPS IPMT Liaison to plan fieldwork, select sampling techniques, and ensure operational success. Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills are required.

• Master’s degree and two years research experience at the postgraduate level in a field relevant to the research (e.g., science, math, business), or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Applicable fields: botany, ecology, biology, environmental science, or related.
• Incumbent must have or obtain a State of Alaska Certified Pesticide Applicator within 60 days of hire.
• Incumbent must pass a background check performed by the Department of the Interior.
• Incumbent must possess a valid driver’s license and complete required safety courses by the University of Alaska and the Department of the Interior.

Location:

University of Alaska Anchorage campus, Anchorage, Alaska. Work arrangements may be flexible (on-site/hybrid) in accordance with UA regulations. This is a full-time, term‑funded, exempt, externally funded position with an initial 3‑month appointment and a possible extension of up an additional 3 months, contingent on funding and available tasks. Competitive salary plus full employee benefits package. UA provides retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental and vision care coverage.

New hires will be placed on the UA Staff Salary Schedule, Grade 80, based on education and experience.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until a successful candidate is identified. Review of application materials will begin immediately. Search and selection procedures will close when a sufficient and viable number of qualified candidates have been identified.

* To view the full list of job responsibilities, please consult the job posting.

* If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact Justin Fulkerson, Lead Botanist & Collections Manager, Alaska Center for Conservation Science, jrfulkerson.

* To be eligible for this position, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Applicants who now or may in the future require visa sponsorship to work in the United States are not eligible.

Successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent on the background check.

The University of Alaska (UA) is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution. The University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination against individuals on the basis of any legally protected status.

Applicants are welcome to request reasonable accommodations during the application and interview process. For assistance, contact UA Human Resources at .

Your application for employment with the University of Alaska is subject to public disclosure under the Alaska Public Records Act.

All employees at the University of Alaska are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.