Desert Tortoise Field Technician, U.S. Geological Survey (GG-0404-05)
Location: Henderson, NV and Barstow, CA
Job Description:
The U.S. Geological Survey is recruiting field
technicians to work on various desert tortoise
(G. agassizii) research projects. Our main office
is in Henderson, NV, but field work will
primarily take place in the Mojave Desert
ecosystem around Barstow, CA. Tasks include:
· using radio telemetry to monitor tortoise movement patterns and behaviors
· searching for unmarked tortoises to add to ongoing studies
· attaching and removing radio transmitters
· collecting blood samples and morphological measurements
· conducting health assessments
· assisting with annual and perennial vegetation
surveys to characterize habitat types
· mentoring SCA interns
· data entry, organization, and QA/QC
· assisting with the day-to-day operations of
field research (including purchasing supplies & basic vehicle maintenance)
Data collected will be used to monitor tortoise
population trends, movement patterns, site
fidelity, and home ranges characteristics, as
well as aid in the understanding of how habitat
and environmental parameters influence health,
incidence of disease, gene expression, and genetic diversity.
We are seeking applicants that are in good
physical condition and capable of hiking over
rugged terrain, sometimes in extreme
environmental conditions. Applicants must be able
to work well both independently, and as part of a
team. A positive attitude, flexibility, attention
to detail, interest in ecological research, and
the ability to strictly follow data collection
protocols are also musts. Experience with
handheld GPS units, PDAs, ArcGIS, compasses, and
off-road driving is preferred, but not necessary.
The position will begin sometime in October
(flexible), and extend for up to 180 working days
(approx 9 months). Extensions are possible,
contingent on performance and funding availability.
Qualifications: 9 months specialized experience
in a field survey party, or 3 years sub
professional experience, or 3 years college study
related to biological sciences (equivalent 90
semester/135 quarter hours) plus 3 months of lab
or field work experience. Previous experience
with our field sampling techniques is preferred,
although some training will be available. A valid
U.S. drivers license is required.
Salary: $31,315 yearly, $15.00 hourly actual salary based on hours worked
Application instructions: The complete job
announcement can be found at
<http://www.jobcentral.org/nv/viewjob.asp?sjobid=NV0299166>http://www.jobcentral.org/nv/viewjob.asp?sjobid=NV0299166.
Please include WERC 50-11-01 on your resume,
and be sure to list the number of hours worked
per week at each position. Resumes, 3
professional references, and transcripts
(unofficial transcripts accepted) need to be
e-mailed
(<mailto:[email protected]>[email protected]) or
faxed (916-278-9475) to Melissa Crain before 6pm on September 23.
***********************************
Felicia Chen
Biologist, U.S. Geological Survey
160 N Stephanie St
Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 564-4607
