DESCRIPTION: Northern Arizona University is looking to hire 5-6 bio-techs to work in Zion National Park this spring. Technicians will work on one of two crews sampling vegetation within either the Dakota Hill Complex Fire or the Kolob Fire. These sites were both treated at a landscape level with the herbicide Plateau in an attempt to reduce the invasion of Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) and Red Brome (Bromus rubrum). A portion of the Kolob Fire also received a native seeding treatment. Duties will include identifying plants to species, collecting unknown species for later identification with the aid of keys (i.e. Utah Flora), performing a variety of vegetation sampling techniques, soil collection, accurately recording data in a handheld PDA or on datasheets, and collection of photo points. A certain degree of fitness and possession of a positive attitude are necessary. Field work will involve long hours of standing, bending, walking and hiking over rugged, steep terrain. Extreme temperatures and weather conditions are possible and exposure is a concern as we will be working in burned areas with little or no canopy cover. Positions open until filled.
COMPENSATION: Pay will be $9-14 per/hr depending upon experience. TRAVEL AND LIVING ACCOMMODATIONS: Employees will be responsible for travel to Zion National Park. Kolob Fire A university vehicle will be used for actual work purposes and will be available for short trips to civilization. We will be camping for the duration of the project. One or two Camp-sites will be reserved within the Park. Most camping gear will be up to the individual to bring, but a kitchen area with a stove and some utensils will be set up using university equipment. Dakota Hill Employee vehicles will be left in a safe location in Zion Canyon, and employees will be transported to a location near the site using a university vehicle. We will then backpack into a backcountry campground in Zion National Park, where we will be camping for the duration of the field sessions. Personal camping gear and food for meals must be supplied by the individual. TIMELINE: Kolob Fire We are planning to work an 8 day session beginning on April 24. This will be followed by 6 days off. The next session will begin on May 8 and could last as long as 16 days with only one scheduled day off on May 16. Dakota Hill The work will consist of two to three eight day sessions, with 6 days off in between. The approximate start date for the first session is May 8th and will run through May 15th. The next session will begin May 22nd and run through May 29th. Dependent upon remaining workload, there is a possible extension of the 2nd session or a 3rd session for those interested. This time may include additional field work or office work (data entry, plant id). QUALIFICATIONS: Kolob Fire Previous botanical work is desired, but not required. At least some field experience in a related discipline is necessary. Dakota Hill At least one qualified botanist very familiar with the plants of Southern Utah. Previous botanical field experience is desired for the additional positions, however this is not a requirement. Due to the backcountry location of these sites, an adequate level of fitness is required for hiking in personal gear as well as some crew equipment. There may be additional days of hiking collected soil, biomass, and equipment out of the field. CONTACTS: If you are interested in working in the backcountry on the Dakota Hill Complex, please send an e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] and include a statement of interest and a resume with references. Those interested in the Kolob Fire can send a resume, cover letter and references to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
