JOB TITLE: Field Technician 40-50 hours/week. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: This project addresses the ecological impacts of nitrogen deposition on native plant communities and soils in the mixed prairie grasslands of Wind Cave and Badlands NP, South Dakota. Critical thresholds of N input will be determined at Badlands National Park and two vegetation types at Wind Cave National Park.
JOB DESCRIPTION: Position Duration: (12 weeks) June-mid August, approximately 40 hours a week, 40+ hours during 2 vegetation sampling weeks. There is flexibility in the schedule but you must commit to long hours during the vegetation sampling weeks in late June and mid-August. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis; position open until filled, submit by April 30 for first consideration. The technician will perform a variety tasks related to vegetation and soil sampling. A large part of the position will be the bi-weekly watering of the plots. Technician must be able to hike short distances over rough terrain and inclement weather repeatedly with backpack sprayer on. The technician will learn and perform soil sampling, data retrieval from sensors, biological crust identification and of course, vegetation sampling. The Black Hills region is a beautiful area with unique geology, forested hills with elevations up to 7000ft and rolling grasslands supporting bison, elk and other wildlife, with major cultural and historical interest as well. Housing which is provided will either be at a private campground in a travel trailer near Wind Cave or an apartment in Custer, South Dakota. When at Badlands NP (approximately 1/3 of the time), technician will camp during the week or stay in a travel trailer when available. REQUIREMENTS: Attention to detail and good record-keeping skills. A BS/BA, or significant progress toward, in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a similar degree. Field experience preferred, at least some experience working outdoors required. Previous plant identification experience, plant taxonomy or field botany class required, though advanced identification techniques will be taught . A positive attitude, desire to work hard even in difficult conditions and gain field experience. A car would be helpful, though not required, as Custer, SD is a small, isolated town. We will not be working on the weekends. COMPENSATION: Valuable plant identification and field experience. Pay is $9.50/hr. CONTACT INFORMATION: To apply please email a cover letter, resume, and at least two references to Anine Smith, MS student, Graduate Degree Program in Ecology, [email protected]
