Description
POSITION SUMMARY
The Invasive Species Seasonal Strike Team Members (2 positions) work with the Habitat Management Specialist and other ISN Staff to implement the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, administered through the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, Sustain Our Great Lakes, and other subgrants granted to ISN, which funds these positions. Primary responsibilities include working on private properties and with partner organizations to control terrestrial invasive plant species throughout Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee counties.
COMPENSATION
The Invasive Species Seasonal Strike Team Member is a seasonal position, working up to 40 hours/week for up to 20* weeks. This position is not exempt from overtime requirements with an hourly wage of $16-18/hour, depending on experience. Seasonal positions are not eligible for benefits except those required by law.
*Pending funding, some of the seasonal positions may be extended.
RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to: ISN Coordinator
Led by: ISN Habitat Management Specialist and ISN Invasive Species Specialist
Supervises: None
Works with: ISN staff and partners, volunteers
PREFERRED START DATE
May 4, 2026*
*Start date is flexible, and will be discussed during interviews
WORKING CONDITIONS
The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network’s offices are located at 3334 Veterans Dr in Traverse City, MI. Strike Team Members will frequently be in the field surveying and managing invasive plants throughout Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau, and Manistee counties. Field work may involve traversing uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of temperatures and conditions, in areas with insect pests, and may require lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Must have a willingness to travel within a four-county service area for multiple days (housing expenses would be reimbursed if overnight stays are authorized). Must have a willingness to mechanically control invasive plants as well as become a MDARD Registered Tech and work with chemical herbicides. While field equipment will be supplied, the successful applicants must have consistent access to appropriate attire for field work (boots, long pants, long sleeves).
TO APPLY
Please email Habitat Management Specialist, Luke Kreykes, at lkreykes@habitatmatters.org with the following documents. No calls please.
completed application (found on the ISN website www.HabitatMatters.org/employment)
resume (no more than 2 pages)
cover letter (1 page)
references (3)
Position is open until filled.
This project is funded by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative through the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, the Sustain Our Great Lakes fund, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative through the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. The Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, military service, or other non-merit factor.
Requirements
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
Formal Education or Equivalent
Seeking a degree with excellent academic performance, preferably in a natural resource or management field
OR
High school diploma and one year (season) of experience in invasive species management
Related Work Experience
Background in natural resource management, particularly in invasive species management
Experience with hand tools used in landscaping
Skills
Able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain for extended periods of time and in isolated locations
Michigan Commercial Pesticide Applicator Certificate or Registered Technician
o OR ability and willingness to obtain certificate (required— cost covered by ISN)
Strong organizational skills
Strong and proven team-player
Excellent social and interpersonal skills, especially with diverse clientele and work groups
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language
Basic computer proficiency (Windows)
Proficient knowledge of ArcGIS & associated mobile applications preferred
Strong knowledge of plant identification and regional invasive species preferred
Other
Able to work flexible hours
Must maintain a valid driver’s license with clear driving record
Must have reliable transportation
Preferred ability to occasionally use a personal vehicle for work purposes. Approved mileage is reimbursed at the federal rate
