The Modoc National Forest is looking for up to 2 experienced field
botanists for summer 2011. Positions may be filled at either the GS-6 or
GS-7 level. The employment extends from May through September (start and
end dates are flexible). The positions are based out of the Forest
Supervisor’s Office in Alturas, CA, and will work throughout the 1.6
million acre forest. Plant habitats include red fir, whitebark pine, and
mixed conifer forests; pumice flats; sagebrush and juniper covered lava
flows; vernal pools; and fens. Excellent opportunity to learn a diverse
flora from Modoc Plateau, Great Basin, and Southern Cascades floristic
provinces. Over 1200 plant species occur on the Forest, including 2
federally listed, 27 sensitive, and 55 watch list species. Government
barracks housing may be available. For information on Modoc National
Forest visit: http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/modoc/
Job descriptions and Qualifications:
Botany Surveying Lead (GS-7: $18.59/hour; GS-6: $16.73/hour): Lead lower
graded field botanists and interns in conducting surveys for threatened,
endangered, sensitive, and watch list plants. Surveys require documenting
locations using GPS and topographic maps, and maintaining field records.
Desired Skills: Must have field botany experience and be able to identify
plants to species using dichotomous keys, and have completed a plant
taxonomy or systematics course. Familiarity with California or Great Basin
flora a plus. Must be able to navigate cross-country using map and
compass. GPS and GIS skills are helpful. Must be physically able to work
long days in rough terrain, walking 5-10 miles per day.
Basic Qualifications:
• GS-7: One year of specialized experience at least equivalent to GS-
6. SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE: The experience requirements
for the GS-7 level may be met by completion of one (1) year of graduate
level education (18 semester/27 quarter hours) in a position-related field
of biological sciences.
• GS-6: One year of specialized experience at least equivalent to GS-
5. SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE: The experience requirements
for the GS-6 level may be met by completion of 6 months of graduate level
education (9 semester/13 quarter hours) in a position-related field of
biological sciences.
• COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Equivalent combinations
of successfully completed education and experience may be used to meet the
experience requirements.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen
To Apply:
Apply through the automated Forest Service job application site, AVUE:
https://www.avuedigitalservices.com/usfs/applicant.html
For GS-7 apply for: Biological Science Technician (Plants) OCRT-404-7-
PLANT-DT
For GS-6 apply for: Biological Science Technician (Plants) OCRT-404-6-
PLANT-DT
NOTE: You must list Alturas, CA as one of your top nine location choices
to be considered for these positions. Please include college transcripts
with applications.
For more information contact: Judy Perkins, Forest Botanist, Modoc
National Forest, 800 W. 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101;
[email protected]; (530) 233-8827.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: MARCH 15, 2011
