TITLE: Seasonal Field Botanist (multiple positions)
SUPERVISOR: Vegetation Ecologist LOCATION: Killeen, Texas STARTING/ENDING DATES: May 7-September 28, 2007 SALARY: $11.50/hr APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 16, 2007 SUMMARY OF POSITION: The Nature Conservancy, in cooperation with the Department of Defense, is conducting research on two federally endangered neotropical migrants, the golden-cheeked warbler and the black-capped vireo. Both species have suffered serious population declines due to habitat loss and cowbird parasitism. The Seasonal Field Botanists will validate and conduct an accuracy assessment of a preliminary vegetation map of Fort Hood. This map will be used to manage endangered species habitat and plan prescribed burning. The Botanists may also participate in other, short-term vegetation studies, including a black-capped vireo habitat restoration study and a native grass seeding study. DUTIES: 1. Collect vegetation plot data. Data collection will include woody and herbaceous plant identification, estimation of vegetation cover, and soil texture analysis. 2. Identify the National Vegetation Classification (NVC) association and alliance to which communities belong using a key to Fort Hood communities. 3. Navigate to and record plot locations using GPS units. 4. Enter data into the PLOTS database. 5. Prepare equipment for field work and maintain field vehicles. REQUIREMENTS: 1. A Bachelors degree in Biology, Ecology, Botany, Range Management, Forestry or related major. 2. Knowledge of the woody and herbaceous (especially graminoid) plant species of central Texas. 3. Experience collecting vegetation field data and keeping accurate, detailed field records. Familiarity with Microsoft Access is recommended. 4. Proficiency in reading maps and using GPS units. Familiarity with ArcView 3.0 and/or ArcGIS is preferred. 5. Ability to work independently and as a member of team. 6. Good physical condition. Applicants must be willing to endure harsh field conditions, including high temperatures and exposure to poisonous plants, reptiles, and insects. 7. Willingness to work long and unusual hours, including some weekends and all federal holidays during the field season. 8. Familiarity with the operation of 4WD, standard transmission vehicles. Field sites are located in rugged, remote terrain. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a good driving record to comply with Conservancy automobile safety policies. 9. Commitment to the mission, goals, and core values of The Nature Conservancy. Applicants must perform all aspects of this job in accordance with Conservancy Policies and Procedures, and values. TO APPLY: Please submit a resume and at least 3 job references to: [EMAIL PROTECTED], or fax the information to (254) 288-5039. Application deadline: 3/16/07. The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Oppportunity Employer.
