We are seeking a summer field-crew member for forest vegetation sampling in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. Project is investigating effect of fuel treatments on post-wildfire vegetation dynamics. This position is based in South Lake Tahoe, CA, with housing provided. Crew is expected to travel for up to 10 days at a time to field sites throughout eastern California.
For additional project and application information, please see announcement below. POSITION DESCRIPTION School/Dept: University of California-Davis, Department of Plant Sciences Position: Forest Ecology Field Technician Position Details: We are seeking a summer field-crew member for forest vegetation sampling in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. Project is investigating effect of fuel treatments on post-wildfire vegetation dynamics. This position is based in South Lake Tahoe, CA, with housing provided. Crew is expected to travel for up to 10 days at a time to field sites throughout eastern California. Job Summary: Under direction, carry out forest stand structure and vegetation sampling, enter and quality-control the data, describe the trends in the condition of the vegetation sampled, and report the findings orally and in writing. Job duration: Early June through September, 2012. Approximate salary: Approximately $20/hr, plus accommodations Essential Responsibilities: 70% FIELD WORK - Relocate existing field sites using map, compass, and GPS - Work with other field crew members to identify sample locations at new sites - At all sites, sample stand structure and record fire severity data using point-quadrat methods - Identify all vascular plant species in plots at the sample locations, and record cover of each species and the number of seedlings of tree and shrub species. Collect voucher specimens of herbaceous species that cannot be identified and, as necessary, work with herbarium staff to identify these. - Make environmental measurements such as canopy cover, PAR, soil moisture. 30% DATA ENTRY - Assure the completeness of the data collected, enter data into a database, check for errors of data recording and data entry, and ensure data are regularly backed up to servers - Keep field notebook including comments and observations, and summarize and report. Physical Demands: - Strenuous hiking (up to 10 miles a day) in rugged terrain carrying gear weighing up to 40 lbs. Work Environment: - Work in a variety of climatic conditions (sun, hot, cold, rain and snow). - Overnight travel and extended stay for up to 10 days. - Work long hours in remote locations. Camp in primitive locations without running water or toilet. - Valid driver's license to travel to field site. Minimum Qualifications: - BS/BA in life science or related field. - Experience working in remote locations. - Experience with vegetation sampling methods. - Plant taxonomy or field botany coursework and/or experience. Preferred Qualifications for Selection: - Familiarity with the flora of mountain forests. Skill in identifying California plants. - Experience or coursework analyzing contrasts and trends in vegetation or forestry data. - MS/MA in ecology, botany, range science or similar field. To apply: -Send resume, 1-pg cover letter describing relevant experience and qualifications, and list of three references, by email to jtstevens[at]ucdavis.edu with heading “2012 Forest Ecology Field Technician” -Deadline to apply is April 23rd, 2012 -UC Davis is an equal opportunity employer
