*Job Overview:* Colorado State University is hiring two summer field assistants for a research project in the Black Hills and Badlands of southwestern South Dakota. The project is measuring effects of nitrogen deposition on grassland vegetation at Wind Cave and Badlands National Parks.
Pay for crew members will be $16.10/hr. Crew members will be stationed at Wind Cave National Park and work under the direct supervision of the project leader. *Crew Member Duties:* (1) Travel daily to field sites, plus some overnight campground camping. (2) Apply nitrogen fertilizer to experimental plots. (3) Identify and measure cover of grassland forbs, shrubs, grasses. (4) Measure biomass of grassland vegetation. (5) Collect unknown plant specimens and identify them in the laboratory with dichotomous keys and herbaria collections. (6) Enter data into Microsoft Excel spreadsheets or other databases. (7) Perform miscellaneous office tasks (e.g., organizing equipment, copying datasheets, etc.). * * *Requirements: * (1) Enrollment or completion of a bachelor’s degree in rangeland science, ecology, biology, botany or related field. (2) Previous field experience sampling vegetation. Preference given to those candidates with grassland plant identification skills and experience. (3) Experience with computers and Microsoft software packages. (4) Excellent communication skills, flexibility and ability to work effectively as a team member. (5) Ability to carry a heavy pack across steep, uneven terrain and to work long days in remote areas and in inclement (rainy/cold/hot) conditions. (6) Good physical condition, a sense of humor, and ability to work as a team. (7) A valid driver’s license and a good driving record. * * *Housing:* Park housing may be available for rent.** * * *Area Information: *Wind Cave National Park is located in the southern Black Hills of southwest South Dakota, approximately 5 ½ hours north of Denver, CO. Medical and dental services, shopping, restaurants, and churches of most faiths are available in Hot Springs (12 miles) and Custer (20 miles). The full service community of Rapid City, SD, population 60,000, is 60 miles away.** * * *How To Apply:* If you have any questions about this position, please contact Alan Knapp at [email protected] and Amy Symstad at [email protected]. Applicants should send a brief cover letter, resume, university transcripts (unofficial okay) and contact information for 3 references to Alan Knapp by email. Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled. ************************************* Amy Symstad Research Ecologist U.S. Geological Survey Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Address: Wind Cave National Park, 26611 U.S. Hwy 385, Hot Springs, SD 57747 Phone: 605-745-1191 Email: [email protected] **************************************
