What are the responsibilities and job description for the Part Time Natural Resources Technician position at Oakland County, Michigan Government?
Overview & Benefits
Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.
When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.
For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:
https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire
General Summary
Assists in the implementation of natural resources management actions and activities that support Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission’s Natural Resource Management goals. Directly stewards plant and/or animal populations through appropriate methodologies including application of herbicides or fungicides, removal or modification of vegetation or animals, and restoration activities. Works with Natural Resources Program Coordinators by collecting data, monitoring, and evaluating field conditions and providing input to plans and strategies. Collects, classifies, or formats natural resources data or information utilizing Arc GIS technology. Must be alert to hazards and follow department safety and emergency procedures. Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments
Minimum Qualifications
$20.68 - $26.93/hr
On-site
This is a part time position limited to 1,000 hours per year that surveys and assesses natural communities and plant species, removes, and treats non-native and/or invasive species through manual, mechanical or chemical methods, application and control of prescribed fire, and restoration activities such as native seeding and restoration mowing.
Essential Job Functions
Directly manages targeted plant and/or animal populations through appropriate methodologies including application of herbicides or fungicides, removal or modification of vegetation or wildlife, and restoration activities such as prescribed burning, habitat improvements, or planting native species.
Collects, classifies, or formats natural resources data or information utilizing Arch GIS technology.
Surveys, monitors, and collects data across the park system and provides verbal, written, or data-based reports.
Identifies Michigan native and non-native plant and animal species as required in order to implement natural resources management activities.
Safely uses and maintains tools and equipment including hand powered tools, brush cutters, herbicide application equipment, boats, prescribed fire equipment, chainsaws, tractors, large mowing equipment, forestry mulching equipment, chippers, loppers, and construction tools.
Safely mixes herbicides prior to application.
Operates various small, medium, and large size vehicles used in management of prescribed fire, mowing of trees, aquatic surveys, and transporting work crews, tools, and equipment to work sites.
May assist in maintaining the proper use of park facilities by patrolling areas on foot or by motor vehicle, informing park users of any violation of regulations, and notifying an appropriate supervisor of unusual or emergency situations.
Maintains positive public relations, such as speaking to interested citizens and park staff about natural resources program methods, practices, and purpose of various management techniques.
Utilizes current technologies to navigate and record ecological data such as GPS, ArcGIS Online, Smartphone.
Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.
Additional Duties And Responsibilities
Loads, unloads, carries, and stacks materials, supplies and equipment.
Cleans and maintains machinery, equipment, and tools.
Essential Mental & Physical Requirements
Ability to communicate accurately to convey information using tact and diplomacy.
Ability to operate a motor vehicle and/or be a passenger.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Works in an outdoor environment with exposure to extreme heat, cold and other weather elements. Will also be exposed to prescribed fire including smoke, agitated or dangerous wildlife, heights, boating and mixing and application of chemicals including herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides.
Will be exposed to machinery and equipment including but not limited to chainsaws, brush cutters, tractors, skid steers, equipment attachments including flail arms and forestry mulchers, stump grinders, chippers, backpack sprayers, herbicide dabbers, and loppers.
May participate in activities that require driving or being a passenger in an automobile, all-terrain vehicle, or boat.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.
Experience, Training, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Reasonable knowledge of and ability to identify native and invasive flora (plants) and fauna (animals) found in southeast Michigan.
Reasonable knowledge of safe practices for mixing chemicals for herbicide/pesticide treatments, fertilizer application and controlling invasive plant species.
Education in natural resources management, ecology, or related areas.
Reasonable ability to understand and follow written and oral directions.
Reasonable ability to communicate in writing as well as verbally.
Reasonable knowledge of the use, maintenance, and repair of groundskeeping tools and equipment.
Reasonable ability to learn new techniques.
Reasonable ability to work and cooperate in a team effort as required.
Ability to adjust work schedule.
Additional Minimum Qualifications
Maintain a Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicators license.
Union*
We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.
Inclusion Statement
Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.
Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.
When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.
For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:
https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire
General Summary
Assists in the implementation of natural resources management actions and activities that support Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission’s Natural Resource Management goals. Directly stewards plant and/or animal populations through appropriate methodologies including application of herbicides or fungicides, removal or modification of vegetation or animals, and restoration activities. Works with Natural Resources Program Coordinators by collecting data, monitoring, and evaluating field conditions and providing input to plans and strategies. Collects, classifies, or formats natural resources data or information utilizing Arc GIS technology. Must be alert to hazards and follow department safety and emergency procedures. Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments
Minimum Qualifications
$20.68 - $26.93/hr
On-site
This is a part time position limited to 1,000 hours per year that surveys and assesses natural communities and plant species, removes, and treats non-native and/or invasive species through manual, mechanical or chemical methods, application and control of prescribed fire, and restoration activities such as native seeding and restoration mowing.
Essential Job Functions
Directly manages targeted plant and/or animal populations through appropriate methodologies including application of herbicides or fungicides, removal or modification of vegetation or wildlife, and restoration activities such as prescribed burning, habitat improvements, or planting native species.
Collects, classifies, or formats natural resources data or information utilizing Arch GIS technology.
Surveys, monitors, and collects data across the park system and provides verbal, written, or data-based reports.
Identifies Michigan native and non-native plant and animal species as required in order to implement natural resources management activities.
Safely uses and maintains tools and equipment including hand powered tools, brush cutters, herbicide application equipment, boats, prescribed fire equipment, chainsaws, tractors, large mowing equipment, forestry mulching equipment, chippers, loppers, and construction tools.
Safely mixes herbicides prior to application.
Operates various small, medium, and large size vehicles used in management of prescribed fire, mowing of trees, aquatic surveys, and transporting work crews, tools, and equipment to work sites.
May assist in maintaining the proper use of park facilities by patrolling areas on foot or by motor vehicle, informing park users of any violation of regulations, and notifying an appropriate supervisor of unusual or emergency situations.
Maintains positive public relations, such as speaking to interested citizens and park staff about natural resources program methods, practices, and purpose of various management techniques.
Utilizes current technologies to navigate and record ecological data such as GPS, ArcGIS Online, Smartphone.
Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.
Additional Duties And Responsibilities
Loads, unloads, carries, and stacks materials, supplies and equipment.
Cleans and maintains machinery, equipment, and tools.
Essential Mental & Physical Requirements
Ability to communicate accurately to convey information using tact and diplomacy.
Ability to operate a motor vehicle and/or be a passenger.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Works in an outdoor environment with exposure to extreme heat, cold and other weather elements. Will also be exposed to prescribed fire including smoke, agitated or dangerous wildlife, heights, boating and mixing and application of chemicals including herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides.
Will be exposed to machinery and equipment including but not limited to chainsaws, brush cutters, tractors, skid steers, equipment attachments including flail arms and forestry mulchers, stump grinders, chippers, backpack sprayers, herbicide dabbers, and loppers.
May participate in activities that require driving or being a passenger in an automobile, all-terrain vehicle, or boat.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.
Experience, Training, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Possess an Associate’s degree or equivalent amount of education from an accredited college or university in conservation biology, environmental studies, ecology, botany, natural resources, limnology, wildlife management, forestry, or a closely related field of study; OR
- a. Must have passed their 18th birthday; OR be at least 16 years old and a high school graduate or pass the State requirements for a G.E.D. certificate; OR be an emancipated minor.
- Have at least two (2) years of full-time work experience in an area related to environmental stewardship or natural resources.
- Possess a valid motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur's license.
- Possess a Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s Certification from the Michigan Department of Agriculture or obtain it within two (2) months of employment, at the employer’s expense.
- ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Reasonable knowledge of and ability to identify native and invasive flora (plants) and fauna (animals) found in southeast Michigan.
Reasonable knowledge of safe practices for mixing chemicals for herbicide/pesticide treatments, fertilizer application and controlling invasive plant species.
Education in natural resources management, ecology, or related areas.
Reasonable ability to understand and follow written and oral directions.
Reasonable ability to communicate in writing as well as verbally.
Reasonable knowledge of the use, maintenance, and repair of groundskeeping tools and equipment.
Reasonable ability to learn new techniques.
Reasonable ability to work and cooperate in a team effort as required.
Ability to adjust work schedule.
Additional Minimum Qualifications
- SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Maintain a Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicators license.
Union*
- If applicable
We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.
Inclusion Statement
Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.
Salary : $21 - $27