DESCRIPTION: Northern Arizona University is looking to hire 2-3 bio-techs to work in Zion National Park this fall. Technicians will work on a small crew sampling vegetation within the Dakota Hill Complex Fire. This site was treated at a landscape level with the herbicide Plateau in an attempt to reduce the invasion of Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). 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 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 (unless traveling from Flagstaff, AZ). 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 is to be supplied by the individual. TIMELINE: 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 October 2nd and will run through October 9th. The next session will begin October 16th and run through October 23rd. 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: 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. CONTACT: If you are interested in working in the backcountry on the Dakota Hill Complex, please send an e-mail to Marybeth at [EMAIL PROTECTED] and include a statement of interest and a resume with references.
