Temporary Aquatic Invasive Species Strike Team Technician (Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering); Cortland, New York

Temporary Agricultural Worker

Temporary Aquatic Invasive Species Strike Team Technician

Nonexempt
Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS)

Cortland, New York

Who We Are

CALS is a pioneer of purpose-driven science and Cornell University's second-largest college. We work across disciplines to tackle the challenges of our time through world-renowned research, education, and outreach. The questions we probe and the answers we seek focus on three overlapping concerns: natural and human systems; food, energy, and environmental resources; and social, physical, and economic well-being.

The Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering (BEE) is one of the largest of its kind in the country with a large faculty, staff, and student population. The department serves three integrated functions: teaching undergraduate and graduate students, researching problems in biology and the environment, and public outreach to help society implement new knowledge.

The New York State Water Resources Institute (NYSWRI) resides within CALS and BEE. Its mission is to improve the management of water resources in New York State and the nation. NYSWRI collaborates with regional, state, and national partners to increase awareness of emerging water resource issues and to develop and assess new water resource management approaches, technologies, and policies. NYSWRI connects water research and water management communities.

What You Will Do

As the Temporary Aquatic Invasive Species Strike Team Technician, you will contribute field experience and regional knowledge to monitoring site prioritization effort. Conduct surveys for submerged aquatic vegetation using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV)/underwater drone or snorkeling with a main focus on detection of hydrilla. Assist with general calibration and maintenance of pesticide application equipment. Other duties include:

• Perform detailed identification of invasive pests to assist in determining appropriate pesticide application strategies.

• Conduct point-intercept rake-toss surveys safely and effectively from a motorized vessel, canoe, or kayak in lentic and lotic systems.

• Perform general equipment maintenance, inspection, and troubleshooting of field and related research equipment.

• Assist with digital field data collection, review, analysis, and preparation of detailed site reports on work completed.

• Perform manual and mechanical aquatic invasive plant removals in collaboration with local stakeholder groups.

What We Need

We are looking for a talented individual who excels at building and maintaining effective relationships with stakeholders. We need someone familiar with aquatic invasive species. Additionally, we need someone who has the following:

• Associate's degree or higher in ecology, biology, natural resources management or related field.

• Strong interest in aquatic invasive species management.

• Ability to be comfortable with insects that bite and sting and animal encounters, including snakes (rare), spiders, and other aquatic insects and invertebrates.

• Ability to complete pesticide apprenticeship in Category 5A to assist with aquatic herbicide application within 6 months of start date.

• Must be able to wear proper protective equipment to avoid exposure to toxic chemicals, using extreme caution when handling and applying.

• Experience with Microsoft and Google editing suites (Word, Excel, Docs, Sheets).

• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.

• Must be able to swim short distances unassisted.

• Ability to perform research underwater (wading and snorkeling).

• Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather.

• Ability to physically work in field locations that can be difficult to access.

• Must be able to navigate uneven terrain, hills, etc.

• Proven ability to work independently and consult with supervisor when necessary.

• Strong written and oral communication skills.

• Strong organization skills.

• Ability to work well with others is required while creating a high-quality and respectful work environment.

• Must be able to work independently while supporting the efforts of an overall team.

• Must be able to meet the travel requirements of the position, and have reliable transportation as well as have and maintain a valid and unrestricted New York State driver's license.

• Ability to pass a Department of Transportation level physical to enroll in Cornell University's Commercial Motor Vehicle Program within six months of start date.

• Visual concentration, attention to detail, and manual dexterity are required.

• Experience modeling values that support inclusion, belonging, and wellbeing.

If you possess these experiences and skills, this may be the role for you! There are a few other qualifications that we would view as incredibly helpful in this role, including:

• Associate's degree or higher in ecology, biology, natural resources management, or related field with at least 3+ years of experience working with aquatic invasive species management or other aquatic-based field work.

• Possess New York State Commercial Pesticide Applicator license or completed apprenticeship with at least 1 year of application experience.

• Experience with operation and trailering of a motorboat.

• Basic knowledge and ability to identify native and invasive aquatic vegetation of New York.

• Experience with data collection applications (Survey123, BioBase EcoSound) and Microsoft editing Suites (Word, Excel, Etc.)

• Experience using multiple GPS devices to navigate.

• Demonstrated experience with aquatic invasive plant monitoring and management.

This position is a temporary, full-time (39 hours/week) and will be located in Cortland, New York. This is a seasonal appointment running from May 18, 2026, to November 20, 2026, with possible extension depending on funding and performance.

We hope you appreciate great benefits. Cornell receives national recognition as an award-winning workplace for our health, well-being, and sustainability initiatives.

• Compensation is $24.30/hour.

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Life. Changing.

No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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