Biological Technician - Guam

Colorado State University

Guam, CO

ID: 7273915
Posted: August 19, 2024
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Description

Description of Work Unit
The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML) is a research, education and service unit within the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU). CEMML applies the latest and most appropriate science to promote the sustainable management of natural and cultural resources on Department of Defense (DoD) and other public lands. We provide technical support, conduct applied research, and offer career development and learning opportunities to support resource stewardship. We collaborate with our sponsors and within CSU to resolve complex environmental issues, leaving a legacy of science-based decisions that sustain our resources for future generations.

To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management, our mission, vision, and values, visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/
Position Summary
Guam has a substantial military presence consisting of three major military installations – Naval Base Guam, Andersen Air Force Base, and Marine Corps Base Camp Blaz. Each year major military training exercises are conducted within the Joint Region Marianas Area of Responsibility (JRM AOR) where large quantities of military equipment and other materials are transported into Guam and the US Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). Due to the sensitive ecological balance of island ecosystems, including the Mariana Islands, CEMML provides support to implement biosecurity within the JRM AOR to prevent unintentional biological introductions.

A Biological Technician position is available with the Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML). This is a full-time appointment primarily located on Guam, but the employee will be deployable to other areas within the JRM AOR which includes nearby islands in the (CNMI).

The Biological Technician will report directly to the Biosecurity Field Supervisor and is responsible for assisting in the following:
Invasive species monitoring and management.
Biosecurity inspections of military cargo.
Control and interdiction for brown treesnakes, coconut rhinoceros beetles, and little fire ants, among other species.
Ungulate fence and brown treesnake barrier inspections/maintenance.
Vegetation control and removal.
Pesticide application.
Collecting and entering invasive species/biosecurity management and monitoring data.
Perform laboratory duties as assigned.
Document findings and prepare field notes.
Communicate daily with team members, supervisors and managers.
Other duties as assigned.

Night and weekend work, as well as work travel to the CNMI, will be required on a rotating basis. Desired candidates should also be willing to work as part of a team and maintain a positive attitude.

Work location is dependent on the needs of the partner/project/role. In some instances, positions may require staff to be fully in-person. In other instances, hybrid or remote arrangements may be possible.
Required Job Qualifications
A minimum of a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
Professional work experience in natural resource management, agricultural sciences, or invasive species management.
Experience conducting fieldwork, and accurately recording, entering, and proofing data.
Demonstrated proficiency using field data collection applications, compasses, maps, data tablets, and GPS units.
Ability to take photographs and collect samples of plants, insects, and animals for identification.
Must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive a standard pickup truck, 4WD truck and ATV/UTV.

Must be willing to submit for NACI background check to obtain a DoD Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) card.
Must be able to work in a culturally diverse office and respect all Team members.
Must be able to deploy from Guam to locations in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), sometimes on short notice.
Must be capable of walking several consecutive miles carrying gear of up to 30 pounds and performing light manual labor in a hot tropical environment, often under windy/rainy conditions and on uneven terrain. Work is often conducted on hot, paved surfaces with little shade available.
The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the United States by the proposed start date. CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
Preferred Job Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in botany, horticulture, biology, ecology, or a closely related science.
1+ year(s) of experience with natural resource management, agricultural sciences, or invasive species management.
Experience implementing methods for operational control of brown treesnakes, coconut rhinoceros beetle, little fire ant, or other vertebrate or invertebrate pest species.
Experience working in the Pacific Region or other tropical islands in the biological, natural resources, or agricultural fields.
Prior experience applying herbicide and/or insecticide, and the ability to obtain a Guam CORE pesticide applicator’s license.
Experience working on a military installation and interacting with military staff, and familiarity with DoD/Navy environmental and safety regulations.
Diversity Statement
Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance the Department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.