Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project 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 grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales.
Summary Under the direction of the Field Operations Manager, Seasonal Field Technicians will assist with field observation, sample collection and handling, sample processing and sample shipment of a variety of taxa. Multiple seasonal positions available. Full-time and part-time positions available. Location – Colorado Field work will occur at Central Plains Experimental Range (CPER) in north central Colorado near Nunn, in north eastern Colorado near Sterling, and at Rocky Mountain National Park. Laboratory activities will occur at the NEON Support Facility in Boulder, CO. The primary work location for positions will be Boulder, CO. Location – Florida Field work will occur at Ordway-Swisher Biological Center near Gainesville, FL, Disney Wilderness Preserve near Poinciana, FL, and Jones Ecological Research Station near Newton, GA. Laboratory activities will occur at the NEON Support Facility in Gainesville, FL. The primary work location for positions will be Gainesville, FL. Schedule This is a temporary assignment expected to begin in April to June 2012 and continue through August to September 2012. Daily and weekly work schedule will fluctuate. Work days can be up to twelve hours long. Work days may be split with morning and evening work. At times work will begin at dawn and go through dusk. Work week can include weekends and occasionally may be up to 12 consecutive days. Essential Duties & Responsibilities • Assists with plot establishment; locates plots with GPS units, measures and marks plots, places and sets traps • Performs and assists with sample collection; records data, checks and resets traps, handles samples in field according to NEON protocols • Performs and assists with sample processing and preparation; records data, sorts samples, utilizes laboratory equipment such as soil sieves, Wiley Mill, drying ovens, analytical balances Education and Qualifications • High School diploma or equivalent • Valid US driver's license • Must be at least 18 years of age Preferred Experience • Bachelor’s degree in an associated scientific discipline (ecology, forestry or related field) • Previous experience conducting ecology related lab or field work • Previous experience trapping small mammals and collecting blood samples (small mammal techs only) • Experience backcountry hiking and navigating (maps, compass, and GPS) • Backcountry safety training course or other safety training • Experience leading hikes, or assisting nature societies with seasonal nature observations Skills and Abilities • Ability to follow written and verbal 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 Physical Abilities • Ability to hike off-trail for distances up to 3 miles with packs of up to 25 lbs (carrying field equipment) • Ability to work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult or hazardous terrain Housing/Transportation • Individuals are responsible for their own housing and transportation to primary work location. Apply online at www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
