POSITION TITLE: RANGELAND ECOLOGY FIELD ASSISTANT JOB LENGTH: 3-4 months COMPENSATION: $13-$14 per hour JOB LOCATION: Helena, MT
SUMMARY OF POSITION: The Montana Natural Heritage Program (MTNHP) serves as the state's principal source of information on species, habitats, and communities of conservation concern. The MTNHP seeks two experienced field ecologists for summer field work collecting vegetation data for the development of Ecological Site Descriptions (ESDs). Knowledge of plant taxonomy and plant species identification is required. Experience in rangeland ecology and knowledge of vegetation survey methods is preferred. Experience identifying Rocky Mountain and/or Northern Great Plains flora is preferred. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The Rangeland Ecology Field Assistant will work with the Field Team Lead and Rangeland Ecologist and Botanist to successfully complete fieldwork. The fieldwork involves extensive collection of vegetation, soil, and other environmental data, identification of plant species, and completion of field survey forms. This position will require knowledge of Rocky Mountain and/or Northern Great Plains flora and the ability to use GPS. Willingness to travel extensively during the field season, work unusual schedules, and camp in often remote areas of Montana is expected. The position will begin in June 2013. KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: Bachelors or Masters degree in ecology, biology, range science, botany, natural resources, or a related field required. Minimum of two field seasons conducting vegetation surveys. Knowledge of dichotomous botanical keys and field guides, and the major angiosperm plant families required. Willingness to travel extensively during field season, work unusual schedules (up to 8 consecutive days), car camp, and live in rustic conditions for extended periods in remote areas of Montana required. Good physical condition and ability to work long hours in the field required. Careful attention to detail required. Demonstrated knowledge of Rocky Mountain and/or Northern Great Plains flora required. Comfort and familiarity with the use of computers required. Experience or familiarity with the use of GPS required. Experience working in rangeland and knowledge of rangeland ecology required. Professional and respectful demeanor when communicating with private landowners and agency personnel required. Experience with plant species identification preferred. Demonstrated experience conducting a variety of vegetation sampling techniques (e.g., line intercept, point intercept, plant production methods) preferred. Knowledge of Rocky Mountain and/or Northern Great Plains flora preferred. Knowledge of and experience with Ecological Site Descriptions (ESDs) preferred. Experience with aerial photograph and topographic map interpretation preferred. Experience with vegetation community classification or habitat typing preferred. Demonstrated interest in, and enthusiasm for, conservation preferred. WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT: Ability to work in variable weather conditions in remote locations, often under physically demanding circumstances. Valid drivers license and a safe driving record. Ability to hike long distances (5-8 miles) over rough terrain carrying field equipment and field gear. Willingness to work occasional long hours or extended periods in an isolated setting. Work may require extreme physical exertion and/or physical strain to the point of fatigue. Work environment involves exposure to job hazards (including but not limited to wild and domestic animals, poisonous plants, falling trees/ rocks, and loose or unstable ground) where there is a possibility of injury. ADDITIONAL DUTIES SPECIFIC TO THE POSITION: Assist in the organization of field data and data entry into appropriate spatial and tabular databases, as needed. APPLICATION INFORMATION: Send cover letter, resume, and 3 references with phone numbers electronically to [email protected]. The cover letter should explicitly state how the applicant meets the required knowledge and skills. Closing date is April 15, 2013, but suitable applicants will be considered as application materials are received. Contact Karen Newlon by email ([email protected]) with any questions.
