Muskegon Conservation District Forest Pest Manager

Position Summary

The Muskegon Conservation District (MCD) is seeking to hire 1 permanent, full-time Forest Pest Manager. This position will manage the Districts Hemlock Wooly Adelgid (HWA) program. The person in this position will also be responsible for identifying other forest pests that may affect Muskegon County and developing treatment plans when needed.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Communicate and plan site visits with landowners to determine the best treatment plan to fit their needs

• Prepare quotes, secure permissions, and coordinate and schedule work with landowners for treatment on their properties

• Lead, train, and supervise seasonal HWA staff with field work. Supervise and train District staff associated with specific grants and/or contractual projects

• Assist in field work which includes physical labor in varying weather conditions on uneven ground for several consecutive workdays at a time.

• Work with crews to ensure the proper data/documentation accuracy and maintain all treatment records as outlined by Michigan law

• Complete all deliverables including financial and data reporting for all grants and projects

• Maintain partner communications and updates on relevant projects and grants

• Attend and present at MCD and WMCISMA and other relevant trainings and meetings with local governments and state authorities to stay up to date with procedures, treatment laws, and best management practices

• Assist local agencies, municipalities, organizations, and individuals with conservation programming

• Obtain funding for current and future programs through grant writing

• Keep maps updated using GIS

• Maintain District supplies and inventory

Education, Knowledge, and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in natural resources / biology or equivalent work experience

• Must possess a valid Michigan Pesticide Applicator license or obtain within two weeks of hire.

• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational, management, public presentation, and written communication skills

• Ability to work independently and effectively with groups and individuals (including those with different philosophies, educational backgrounds, and/or economic status)

• Ability to use a computer and have experience in Google Platforms, Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher and Adobe Acrobat.

• Use of GIS, GPS, and parcel mapping databases preferred

• Appreciation for and commitment to conservation of natural resources

• Strongly preferred to have two years previous experience of identifying and treating invasive species and/or knowledge of HWA treatment methods.

• Knowledge of how to use and maintain power tools and heavy equipment is strongly preferred.

• Field work will require lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs throughout the day

• Must have sufficient visual acuity to identify spills and other potential hazards in the workplace

• This position works around pesticides, and the employee runs the risk of exposure to such chemicals. Employees must be able to wear all required clothing and equipment.

• Position requires a valid driver's license, and will require a workplace drug screening test

Working Conditions and Compensation

The position is full time with the Muskegon Conservation District located at 4735 Holton Road, Twin Lake, Michigan 49457. Starting salary is between $20-22 per hour based on qualifications. Benefits include paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, as well as employee health insurance plans and retirement stipend plans. Normal work hours are from 7:00am to 5:30pm Tuesday through Friday. Some flexibility with scheduling is permitted and from time to time may be required. Participation in a limited number of evening meetings and weekend events may be necessary. Travel outside of the office and county on behalf of the District could occur and will be reimbursed at the current federal rate. Training sessions, meetings and conferences may involve travel and/or overnight stays. The applicant must be open to training and mentoring to develop an in-depth understanding of conservation practices and programs that are available to assist property owners in conserving soil, water, and related natural resources. In addition, invasive species control and management require continual education and training to address new evolving environmental concerns.

To Apply:Position is open until filled. Please submit a cover letter indicating your interest and fit for the position, resume and three references by March 1, 2026 as a single PDF to Chelsey Lawton at chelsey.lawton@macd.org with the subject line “Muskegon CD Forest Pest Manager”.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20 - $22