This is a full-time other personal services (ops) position on the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest in Frostproof, FL, managing invasive exotic plants that alter plant communities by displacing native species. The majority of the time will be spent in the field searching for invasive plants, logging areas on a GPS, treating, and maintaining these areas. This work includes mapping locations on the computer in ArcGis (ArcMap), other data entry, and equipment maintenance. Employee also provides assistance with state forest projects such as collecting data for threatened and endangered plant and animal species, restoration projects, and the prescribed burning program.
Job duties include the chemical treatment of a suite of invasive plants that inhibit forest management and contribute to decreased biodiversity. Mixing and applying chemical herbicides using hand sprayers, backpack sprayers, ATV tanks, or truck tanks. Routine maintenance and repair of vehicles and spray equipment. Ability to work and navigate in occasionally extreme conditions of hard to access, hot and humid forests. Ability to learn and differentiate plant species.
The benefits of working for the state of Florida include participation in state group insurance, the Florida Deferred Compensation Plan, the State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan, flexible spending accounts, and the Employee Assistance Program.