Individual Placement - Invasive Species and Biocontrol Steward

The member will work within the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation (NYS OPRHP)’s Invasive Species Unit (ISU). The ISU works with Biologists and other Stewardship staff throughout the state to ensure the responsible stewardship of OPRHP’s natural resources - they direct the management of invasive species with a focus on the protection of rare and threatened species and significant natural communities. In this position, which is supervised by the Unit’s Invasive Plant and Biocontrol Coordinator, the member will receive a thorough introduction to the invasive plants and insects of New York State through hands-on experience in detection, identification, and management.

The member’s main duties will be centered around NYS OPRHP’s biological control program, with a focus on the release, recovery, and monitoring of biological control agents. In addition, the member will gain experience in a number of other aspects of invasive species management - from survey and identification, to control and monitoring, to the development of educational and guidance documents. Some examples of priority projects include: Hemlock woolly adelgid biocontrol agent emergence monitoring, emerald ash borer biocontrol agent recovery and identification, and surveying for and mapping invasive plant species and forest pests (priority species will differ from year-to-year). Throughout the field season, the member will use various ESRI-based data collection applications (Field Maps, Survey123) to enter survey and monitoring data into ArcGIS Online and the iMap database (an online database which is used by organizations throughout New York State to track and monitor infestations). They will also be responsible for entering, tracking, and compiling data using Microsoft Excel.

The position will be based out of the Invasive Species Field Office located at Minnewaska State Park Preserve near New Paltz, NY. While most projects will be centered in and around New York’s Hudson Valley, there will be ample opportunity for the member to travel to other parts of Eastern New York and visit some of the system’s most spectacular parks. Throughout their term, they will be introduced to a wide array of projects and topics relating to natural resource stewardship and get the chance to interact with many Agency and partner staff. The position will entail a combination of office, field, and lab work designed to suit the experience, skills, and interests of the member.

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, historic landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country.

The SCA New York partners with state agencies and non-profit organizations across the state of New York. SCA New York members serve in 10-month positions alongside conservation professionals, engaging in conservation stewardship projects and education services for the general public.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve NYS OPRHP

Wallkill, NY

• This position is primarily in a front country setting where emergency services are accessible, but may be delayed by 1-2 hours. SCA Members regularly interact with members of the public. Access to public transportation at work site is limited or not possible. Cell phone reception maybe limited, spotty, or not available.
• This position may conduct work in a front country setting where emergency services are accessible, but may be delayed by 1-2 hours. Access to public transportation at work site is limited or not possible. Cell phone reception is limited, spotty, or not available.
• This position may conduct work in a backcountry setting where emergency services are limited and may be delayed by several hours to days. Access to public transportation at work site is not possible. Cell phone reception is limited, spotty, or not available.

January 25, 2027 - November 19, 2027

 Contribute to on-the-ground biocontrol initiatives (release and monitoring, recovery efforts, site compatibility assessments, etc.) (30%)

 Recover and process biological control samples and prepare them to be sent to partner labs for identification (25%).

 Survey for, monitor, and manage invasive species (early detection of new species, site assessments, pre- and post-treatment monitoring, manual/mechanical control, site restoration, etc.) (10%)

 Participate in SCA trainings, service projects, and other member development events (15%)

 Conduct literature reviews and gather information to develop guidance documents, manuals, management plans, and reports to be used by the Invasive Species Unit and other staff (5%)

 Develop educational materials and assist with trainings and events (5%)

 Manage data and create maps using ArcGIS software (5%)

 Assist with other stewardship projects, including those related to water quality, wildlife management, and ecology (5%)

• Member Evaluation: A Mid-term evaluation will be completed by site supervisor at the mid-point of a members’ term of service. An End of Term evaluation will be completed by site supervisor at the members’ end of service.

• Reporting Requirements: Members are required to submit timesheets on a Weekly/Bi-weekly basis via SCA’s timekeeping system, ADP

• Monthly Data Reports: Members are required to submit weekly output reports; training is provided at Orientation.

• Quarterly Narrative Reports: Member narratives are collected on a monthly basis in the members’ output report.

This position is part of a specialized SCA AmeriCorps program and if you are selected, you will be serving as an SCA AmeriCorps member. To be eligible for this position you must meet these basic AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements:

• Being a citizen, permanent resident, or national of the United States;

• Being at least 18 years or older;

• Having a high school diploma or equivalent or actively working to complete;

• Being willing to undergo National Service Criminal History Check, including criminal background, sex offender and FBI checks conducted after position is offered.

• Desire to learn about invasive species identification and management • Strong interest in and commitment to stewardship

• Team-oriented approach to solving challenges

• General comfort hiking and working outdoors in varying terrain and in all weather conditions

• Work schedules and projects may change on short notice or be ambiguous.
• Work settings require the ability to positively interact with people of varying perspectives.
• Work settings may be located in natural environments and regionally significant locations that require respect for the land and local peoples.
• Work environment may be in inclement and severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and flash flooding, gusty and strong winds, foggy or decreased visibility, lightning events, and/or decreased or inclement air quality conditions due to wildfire smoke or smog.
• Work may take place in warm temperatures and adverse heat conditions which could include temperatures in some regions up to 110°F or hotter.
• Work may take place in cold temperatures and adverse winter weather which could include temperatures in some regions -20°F or colder with wind, snow, and sleet.
• Work settings may involve exposure to natural and environmental hazards, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac; harmful, poisonous, or disease-carrying ticks, mosquitos, insects, snakes, bears, and other wildlife. 

40 per week

A $1,000 housing allowance is provided each month for the member to procure housing. The member will have access to payment schedule to budget accordingly.

 A personal vehicle is required for personal travel.

Driving an OPRHP Vehicle is required for this position.

To be able to drive a motor vehicle for the NY OPRHP, you must:

Possess a current and valid driver’s license for the type of vehicle which they are operating.

Provide your State Driver's Abstract from your State's DMV (reimbursable)

Pass New York State OPRHP Driver Training

SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.