Job ID: 15457Agency: Department of Game, Fish and Parks / Division of WildlifeSalary: $17.48 – $22.28 per hour, depending on experiencePay Grade: GH|Closing Date: 01/20/2021This is a full-time position with the Department of Game, Fish, and Parks. For more information on the Department of Game, Fish, and Parks, please visit http://gfp.sd.gov.This position is primarily responsible for the coordination of the chemical and biological control of non-native invasive species on over 35 Game Production Areas (GPA) owned and managed by South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (SDGFP) in our administrative region 1, approximately the western third of South Dakota. The main goal of this intensive control is to promote the best wildlife habitat possible on all SDGFP-owned and managed properties. The incumbent will be responsible for the timely application of control methods, monitoring of infestations, as well as keeping proper records; will be required to supervise and act as project leader for interns and coworkers; will be expected to contribute to ongoing and future habitat management project planning to improve wildlife use and hunter opportunity on these properties; and will be responsible for helping coordinate annual prairie dog control efforts in region 1 and may include: mapping prairie dog control requests, coordinating intern(s), determining eligibility, working with contractors to assign control work, reviewing control work for quality, producing reports, and/or completing control work.The incumbent will also be expected to assist with other habitat management activities as necessary.These may include native grass restoration, assistance with food plots and farming, equipment maintenance, and/or fencing projects.This position will require local travel on a frequent basis and intermittent statewide travel. Some overnight stays may be necessary as the assigned work is completed in remote areas. Periodically, physically demanding field work during potentially adverse weather conditions may be required.Licenses and Certifications:Possess or have the ability to obtain, within 3 months of employment, a South Dakota commercial applicator’s license in General, 1A, 7, and 12.A valid driver’s license is required, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) is desired.Complete a certified ATV course, and online UTV safety course.Multiple levels of certification in Wildland Fire Fighting must be obtainable, including S-130 (Firefighter Training), S-190 (Intro. to Wildland Fire Behavior), and S-212 (Wildland Fire Chainsaws). The ability to pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test may be required.The Ideal Candidate Will Have:A bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries science, natural resource management, range management, or a related field is preferred. Practical field experience in range management, or a related field, may substitute for college coursework. Knowledge of habitat management techniques and methods and their practical application on the landscape is beneficial.Knowledge of:invasive species, grass species identification and management options; chemical use or pest control;each specific county’s weed list is required as one county may have a different list than another requiring different control measures between counties;herbicides and their properties is required to ensure that the proper chemicals are administered in each situation for the most effective control measures as well as to ensure legal application of herbicides in order to properly treat weeds;all herbicides are federally regulated and each federal label must be followed exactly.Skill to:communicate effectively with a range of people such as coworkers, vendors, program managers, and other agencies;operate computers and various GIS/GPS technologies to collect field data and produce maps and reports;prioritize work schedule to accomplish all tasks and meet deadlines.Ability to:compile and analyze information and data and draw sound and reasonable conclusions;write professional and technical reports that can be understood by both professional and lay persons;operate heavy equipment including skid steers, tractors, and truck and trailer;work independently and/or in a team setting;coordinate projects with staff;adapt daily schedule to accommodate impacts such as weather and other responsibilities;perform job duties in extreme and harsh weather conditions;lift 50 pounds.VETERANS’ PREFERENCE ELIGIBLE NCRC: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office. A certificate is not necessary to be considered.The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9.The State of South Dakota offers employer paid health insurance plus ten paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information at https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/. This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.Apply at: https://sodakprod-lm01.cloud.infor.com:1443/lmghr/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=D0PSouth Dakota Bureau of Human ResourcesTelephone: 605.773.3148 Fax: 605.773.4344http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus”An Equal Opportunity Employer”