Biological Field Tech

Catawba-Indian-Nation; Rock Hill (SC); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

The Catawba Indian Nation seeks a Biological Field Technician to support field-based conservation and restoration across tribal lands. This full-time role focuses on invasive plant management, native plant restoration, and data collection for reporting and grant work.

The position requires knowledge of ecology, field data collection, and operation of power equipment. Occasional travel and outdoor work in varied terrains are expected to support habitat restoration efforts along the Catawba River.

Qualifications

• Experience in field ecological research or natural resource management.
• Knowledge of herbicide application for vegetation management.

Responsibilities

• Identify target native and invasive plant species for management and restoration.
• Assist with habitat restoration projects, including riparian restoration and reestablishment of native species.
• Conduct invasive plant management using chemical, mechanical, and manual methods.
• Perform vegetation removal, GPS data collection, and vegetation monitoring.
• Prepare clear, accurate technical reports for project tracking and grant requirements.

Skills

Field ecology

Invasive species control

Data collection

GPS mapping

Equipment operation

Safety protocols

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Ecology or environmental science courses

Certifications in herbicide application or GIS

Tools

GPS equipment

Power equipment (mowers, chainsaws)

GIS/GPS mapping

Job description

Position SummaryThe Catawba Nation’s Department of Natural Resources is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the position of Biological Field Technician. This is a full-time position funded through the America the Beautiful Challenge (ATBC).The Biological Field Technician will work under the general supervision of the Department’s Wildlife & Habitat Stewardship Program Manager and will support field-based conservation and restoration activities across Tribal lands. Primary duties include the removal and management of invasive plant species, implementation of native plant restoration projects, and assistance with the development and application of invasive species management protocols. The Technician will conduct vegetation monitoring, collect and manage plant population data, and accurately enter field data into designated databases and reporting systems.This position will play a key role in advancing the Department of Natural Resources’ efforts to restore and enhance native plant communities, particularly giant rivercane, while supporting broader conservation objectives, habitat resilience, and long-term ecological stewardship within the Catawba Nation.Essential FunctionsAn individual in this role must be able to perform the following functions with or without reasonable accommodation:Identify target native invasive plant species and assess priority populations for management and restoration activitiesAssist with habitat restoration projects, including prairie restoration, riparian restoration, and the reestablishment of native species such as rocky mountain shoal spider lilies along the Catawba RiverConduct invasive plant management using chemical, mechanical, and manual control methods in accordance with established protocolsAssist with vegetation removal, site preparation, planting, GPS data collection, and vegetation monitoringOperate and maintain power equipment and hand tools, including mowers, weed-eaters, chainsaws, and related field equipmentCollect, compile, and manage field data for analysis, reporting, and project evaluationPrepare clear, accurate, and detailed technical reports and documentation to support project tracking and grant requirementsThis position description is not an exhaustive listing of the expectations associated with the role and additional tasks may be assigned as needed by management. Changes to this document may only be made by a member of the Human Resources team. Catawba Indian Nation reserves the right to amend this job description.Catawba Indian Nation exercises INDIAN PREFERENCE:Tribal Government PositionsNative American (Indian) preference applies to this position pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, 25 U.S.C. § 5301 et seq.; the Indian Reorganization Act, 25 U.S.C. § 5116; and other applicable federal and tribal laws, consistent with the sovereign authority of the Catawba Indian Nation.Gaming Commission PositionsNative American (Indian) preference applies to this position pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, 25 U.S.C. § 2701 et seq.; applicable regulations of the National Indian Gaming Commission at 25 CFR Chapter III; the Indian Reorganization Act, 25 U.S.C. § 5116; and other applicable federal and tribal laws, consistent with the sovereign authority of the Catawba Indian Nation.Background checks and drug screening are requirements for employment.QualificationsExperience:At least 6 months of field ecological research or natural resource managementHands-on work in invasive species removal and ecosystem restorationKnowledge and practice of herbicide application for vegetation managementOperation and maintenance of power equipment such as mowers, chainsaws, and related toolsDemonstrated responsible care and maintenance of field equipmentEducation:High school diploma or equivalent requiredAdditional coursework or training in natural resources, ecology, or environmental scienceLicenses & Certifications:Possess a clean, valid state driver’s license and be insurable under the Tribe’s insurance policyCertifications in herbicide application, GIS/GPS mapping, or ecological restoration (desirable)Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of basic ecological principles, wildlife biology, and habitat management practicesAbility to identify common plant and wildlife species in the Southeast (or willingness to learn)Strong data collection and record-keeping skillsBasic understanding of safety protocols and risk management in field environmentsExperience with field sampling techniques (vegetation surveys, wildlife monitoring, water quality sampling, etc.)Ability to work independently in remote settings as well as collaboratively within a teamWillingness for occasional travel for trainings, meetings, workshops, and conferencesWork Environment & Physical DemandsThe ability to work outdoors for extended periods in densely vegetated forests, stream environments, and riparian areas along the Catawba River, often in uneven terrain and off established trails.Ability to lift, carry, and transport field equipment up to 75 pounds to and from survey and restoration sites, including locations that may not be accessible by established paths