USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, Forest Inventory and Analysis
(FIA) http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/fia/
Title: Vegetation Specialist (contract Botanist or Ecologist)
Number of Positions: 12
Grade: GS 7 or 9
Time Period: June 2, through no later than September 12, 2008
Duty Station Locations: Murphysboro, IL; Old Town, ME; Westfield, MA;
Manistique, MI; Springfield, MO; Columbia, MO; Cortland, NY; Lakeville, NY; New
Philadelphia, OH; Clearfield, PA; Long Pond, PA; and Elkins, WV
Duties: The Vegetation Specialists will be primarily responsible for the
collection of FIA Vegetation Diversity and Structure Indicator data
(http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/fia/topics/veg/) including species identification and
cover estimates for all trees, shrubs, herbs, graminoids, ferns, and fern
allies occurring on FIA plots. The Vegetation Specialist will work as a member
of a multi-person FIA field crew under the direction of a crew leader, and will
assist with other field measurements as time allows. FIA plot locations are
scattered throughout a state or groups of states and are not limited to
National Forest Lands; the vast majority of the plots are located on private
property. The work requires regular and recurring physical exertion in the
form of travel on foot over rough, uneven, and steep terrain. Field crews
travel frequently and work independently. The work requires several hours of
driving, several days each week. During travel periods (approximately June
through September), crews will change locations frequently, often on a weekly
or daily basis. Lodging is generally in motel/hotels.
Qualifications Required:
Education
Degree: (Botanist:) Botany; or basic plant science, that included at least 24
semester hours in botany; or (Ecologist:) Biology, or a related field of
science, that included at least 30 semester hours in basic and applied sciences
-- these hours must have included at least 9 semester hours in ecology, and 12
semester hours in physical and mathematical sciences.
GS-7: PLUS 1 year of graduate-level education or superior academic
achievement. GS-9: PLUS 2 years of graduate-level education or Masters
Degree.
OR
Experience
GS-7: one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade
level. GS-9: one year specialized experience equivalent to the next lower
grade level. (Specialized Experience Definition: Substantial experience in
various biological techniques which has equipped the applicant with the
knowledge, skills and abilities needed to successfully perform the duties of
the position to be filled.)
OR
Combination of Education and Experience
In addition to Botanist or Ecologist qualifications listed above,
applications will be evaluated for specific knowledge, skills, and abilities,
including:
- Knowledge of the principles, concepts, and practices of botany
- Ability to perform basic data processing, tracking, and editing
functions using word processing, spreadsheet, and database computer programs;
and
- Ability to identify regional vascular plant species including
trees, shrubs, herbs, graminoids, ferns, and fern allies using regional and
local comprehensive identification keys.
When submitting a resume, qualifications/experience in these areas should be
highlighted. Any previous experience completing the FIA Vegetation Indicator
or other vegetation inventories should be included.
For Additional Information:
Applications will consist of an updated resume addressing the qualifications
outlined above under Qualifications required and a copy of your most recent
college transcripts. Resumes should include names and contact phone
information for previous employers and references.
To receive an electronic copy of the detailed position announcement, which
includes additional specific information regarding: work schedules; wages
based on education, experience, and duty station location; work related travel;
government provided property; training and certification requirements; and
contracting information, contact:
Bob Ilgenfritz
U.S. Forest Service
11Campus Blvd., Ste. 200
Newtown Square, PA 19073
Cell Phone: 412-523-2495 best contact
Office Phone 610-557-4061
Fax: 610-557-4250
E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
