Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.
Summary: Two Field Technicians (One Field Technician + One Lead Field Technician) are needed on a temporary basis this summer to collect insects for the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) (http://www.neoninc.org/) at two sites in the Northeast. The 2011 research will focus on a subset of the full NEON activities and represents a prototype effort to characterize the site. Location: NEON candidate relocatable site, Plum Island -Burlington, MA collection site Bartlett Experimental Forest in Carroll County, NH collection site Timeline: This temporary assignment is expected to run June 6 Aug 19. The work schedule will be 3 days on/four days off with 8-10h days anticipated. Essential Duties: Field technicians will install pitfall traps (involves digging small holes and placing traps) and mosquito traps, and then check, empty, and reset traps daily/weekly. Field technicians will also maintain traps and other field equipment as required. Technicians will receive training prior to beginning fieldwork. Upon successful completion of training, technicians will work as a pair, independently collecting insects. Technicians will carry a GPS unit and record data and provided datasheets. Education: High School diploma or equivalent Required Experience: A valid, current driver's license Proof of auto insurance Must be at least 21 years of age Must be US Citizen Lead position previous experience leading field sampling Preferred Experience: Currently working toward BS, MS, Ph.D. degree in Ecology or Biology or another related field Experience as a field technician Experience with backcountry hiking and navigation (maps, compass, and GPS) Experience leading hikes, or assisting nature societies with seasonal nature observations Wildlife safety training course or another safety training course Skills and Abilities: Ability to follow instructions, a strong work ethic, and enthusiasm Able to supply personal gear (adequate clothing and boots, etc.) Ability to work independently and as part of a team Proficient in MS Office including Excel and Word Attention to detail and accuracy Ability to successfully work through problems with minimal supervision Physical Abilities: Ability to hike with packs up to 25 lbs (carrying traps and other field equipment) to field sites off-trail for distances of up to 3 miles Ability to work in adverse weather conditions and in all types of terrains Compensation: $12/hr plus housing support (reimbursed) when overnight stays are required for field technician $14/hr plus housing support (reimbursed) when overnight stays are required for lead field technician
