Natural Resources Technician

The position is located in [Sells, AZ].

Position Summary:

Under general supervision, works with the assessment, collection and analysis of data related to the Tohono O'odham Nation's Natural Resources.

The work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks while in process, to ensure accuracy, timeliness and conformance to established standards; major work tasks are covered by instructions or procedures and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Inventories plants and animals; the ecosystem such as natural habitats; watersheds; and rangelands.
• Assists in the implementation of conservation and protection programs and education of the Tohono O'odham people in Natural Resources.
• Assists in the evaluation of the condition of the plants and animals and the natural habitats by implementation of monitoring and surveying activities.
• Conducts field surveys using the Global Positioning Systems (GPS) inventory of the fauna and the natural habitats.
• Maintains current documentation of the Natural Resources.
• Collects, reviews, prepares, and enters data into the computer database and spreadsheets; performs computer mapping and computation of data on spreadsheets.
• Assists in the planning and implementation of conservation and management policies.
• Assists in the development of resource manuals and books for purposes of management and education.
• Assists in the operating and maintenance/servicing of data-collection instruments, test equipment and other support equipment.
• Maintains a daily log and submits written reports as requested by the supervisor.
• Attends meetings and assists in scheduling and conducting presentations and educational programs to community agencies and districts.
• Prepares posters and associated visual displays for fairs, tribal council, village/district and in-house use.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by conducting research, attending seminars, educational workshops, classes and conferences; conferring with representatives of contracting agencies and related organizations.
• Performs other job related duties as assigned and contributes to a team effort.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws, regulations and requirements.
• Knowledge of the O'odham language and skill in translating from Tohono O'odham to English and visa versa.
• Knowledge of the Sonoran Desert and its plants and animals.
• Knowledge of department organization, functions, objectives, policies and procedures.
• Skill in maintenance of accurate records and identification of resource conditions and problems of on-going projects.
• Skill in use of aerial photographs, topographic maps, county road maps and legal descriptions.
• Skill in use of photographic equipment and other surveying instruments for documentation.
• Skill in use of or ability to learn ArcMap and/or other GIS mapping software and Access and Excel database programs.
• Skill in providing superior customer service to external and internal customers.
• Ability to exercise independent judgement.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
• Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
• Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.
• Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
• Ability to travel within the interior/exterior boundaries of the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in Ecology, Natural Resources Management or closely related field and one year work experience in biosciences relative to the Sonoran Desert, or in a Natural Resources field, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of this position.

Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements:

• Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background check is required to determine suitability for hire, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
• May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
• If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
• Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.