Courtenay, Comox Valley & Namaimo BC jobs

Position: Lead Invasive Species Technician 
No. of positions: 2
Eligibility: age 30 & under (see below)
Organization: The Coastal Invasive Species Committee (Coastal ISC)
Location: Comox or Nanaimo, BC with travel to worksites throughout Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and the Sunshine Coast; office work will be home-based. Other locations within Central Vancouver Island may be considered.

Term: 

• Position 1: May 5, 2025 - September 26, 2025 (with possibility of extension)
• Position 2: May 5, 2025 - August 22, 2025 (with possibility of extension)
• 38 hours/week, 4 days/week

Wage: $23-$24/hour + 4% vacation pay

WHO WE ARE

The Coastal Invasive Species Committee (Coastal ISC) is a non-profit organization working to minimize the negative impacts of invasive species throughout Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and the Sunshine Coast. We work with a diversity of partners to promote collaboration, conduct field work, and deliver education and outreach programming throughout our region.

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Lead Invasive Species Technician will supervise 1-2 crew members in the delivery of field operations, including invasive species inventory, manual and chemical control, and monitoring activities. This position provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with a diverse network of partners and experts in the region, while enhancing both leadership and technical skills, and gaining a deeper understanding of the impacts of invasive species and best management practices. Progressive training and mentorship from senior staff will be provided. Join us and discover how we’re making a difference in mitigating the negative effects of invasive species through a variety of projects all while working in some of the most beautiful places in our region!

TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct invasive species inventory, control, and monitoring activities
• Collect, manage and ensure integrity of data throughout the field season
• Assist with writing technical reports
• Supervise 1-2 crew members
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, policies and relevant legislation
• Respond to public inquiries and requests via phone, email and in-person
• Maintain field vehicles and equipment
• Assist with education and outreach activities as needed

SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

The ideal candidate will have:

• 1+ years of post secondary education in the natural sciences (biology, ecology, resource and environmental management, forestry, etc.) or a related field
• Knowledge of regional invasive species and strong plant identification skills
• Experience managing invasive species, including surveying, mechanical treatments, chemical treatments, monitoring, and applying the principals of integrated pest management
• Knowledge of the BC Weed Control Act, BC Forest and Range Practices Act, Integrated Pest Management Act, and other related regulations
• Familiarity with mapping tools (GPS, ArcGIS, FieldMaps, etc.)
• The ability to collect, manage, and organize data
• Experience conducting fieldwork in variable conditions, including inclement weather and remote locations
• The ability and willingness to carry out strenuous fieldwork and repetitive tasks, including walking long distances carrying gear and driving long distances
• A demonstrated commitment to safety
• Excellent organizational, communication and leadership skills, be highly motivated, conscientious and a team player
• The ability and willingness to travel throughout Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and Sunshine Coast including up to 4 days at a time away from home
• The ability to work from a home office (phone, internet, and computer required)
• A valid OFA Level 1 (or equivalent) and Industrial Vegetation and Noxious Weed Pesticide Applicator Certification; or ability to obtain certification within 3 weeks of contract start date
• Willingness to work with herbicides and potentially dangerous plants (e.g. giant hogweed)
• A Class 5 BC Driver’s License

ELIGIBILITY

Funding for this position may be provided by the ECO Canada or Canada Summer Jobs program. Therefore, to qualify for this position, individuals must meet the following program criteria:

• be between 15 and 30 years of age at the beginning of the employment period;
• be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person to whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act for the duration of the employment;
• and, have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace where individuals from diverse backgrounds can thrive. We encourage all candidates who believe they would be a great fit to apply, even if they do not meet every requirement.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled and reviewed in the order received.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter, including the name of the position you are applying for in the email subject line to:

Sydney Vandermale, Operations Coordinator
Coastal Invasive Species Committee
Sydney.vandermale@coastalisc.com

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Only candidates being considered for this position will be contacted. The position is subject to funding availability.