Desert Tortoise Research Technician, U.S. Geological Survey (GG-0404-05)
Job Description:
The U.S. Geological Survey is recruiting field
technicians to assist with research projects
investigating desert tortoise (G. agassizii)
ecology, physiology, and disease dynamics. Our
research group is based in Henderson, NV, but
field work will take place throughout the Mojave Desert. Duties include:
· using radio telemetry to monitor tortoise movement patterns and behaviors
· searching for unmarked wild tortoises to add to ongoing studies
· attaching, removing, and troubleshooting radio transmitters and data loggers
· collecting tissue samples (e.g. blood) 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 using Excel and relational databases
· assisting with the day-to-day operations of
field research (e.g. purchasing supplies, basic vehicle maintenance)
Data collected will be used to monitor tortoise
population trends, movement patterns, microsite
selection, and home ranges characteristics, as
well as aid in the understanding of how habitat
and environmental parameters influence health,
gene expression, the incidence & transmission of
disease, population connectivity, and genetic diversity.
We are seeking applicants that are in great
physical condition and capable of hiking long
distances over rugged desert terrain, often 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, ArcGIS, FileMaker,
radiotelemetry, and plant identification is preferred.
This temporary position will begin on August 5,
2013 (flexible by a week or two), and extend for
up to 180 working days (approximately 9 months).
Extensions are possible, contingent upon 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. A valid U.S. drivers
license is required. All applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Salary: $31,315 yearly, $15.00 hourly actual
salary based on hours worked; annual & sick leave accrual.
Application instructions:
Please list the announcement number 75-13-02 at
the top of your resume, and be sure to include
the number of hours worked per week for each position.
E-mail or fax resumes and college transcripts
(unofficial transcripts accepted) to Wendy Cole
(<mailto:[email protected]>[email protected];
916-278-9496) by the end of the business day on July 26.
If claiming 5 point veterans preference, a DD-214
showing character of discharge is required. If
claiming 10 point veterans preference, a SF-15 with proof of claim is required.
