A seasonal research technician is needed from December through May (exact dates to be determined) to assist a postdoctoral researcher on a project investigating the spatial extent and ecological effects of non-native earthworms on the historically earthworm-free San Clemente Island, California (SCI). Invasive earthworms, including species from Europe and Asia, have been documented to have adverse impacts on native plant and animal species and on ecosystem functions; however, earthworm invasions in regions other than the eastern U.S. and outside of forested areas are poorly understood. The newly documented invasion of non-native earthworms on SCI is a cause for conservation concern in the context of the island’s many endangered and endemic plant and animal species and sub-species.
Responsibilities of this position will include operation of a Department of Defense vehicle (automatic transmission), hiking to remote sampling locations using GPS and/or compass and map, sampling of earthworms and vegetation, entry and management of data, and identification of earthworms using a dissecting microscope. Applicants should be able to work in a remote field site under wet, windy, and/or foggy conditions, spend long hours in the field, traverse rugged terrain, and work effectively both independently and under a supervisor. The research technician will also have to work under the unique, challenging, and dynamic logistical considerations associated with working on an active military installation. Applicants should have experience with many of the above tasks, and those with experience conducting vegetation sampling, invertebrate sampling, and/or invertebrate identification will be especially competitive. Preference will also be given to applicants that have experience using Microsoft Excel and ArcMap and that possess an undergraduate degree in ecology, wildlife biology, or a related field. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. Compensation for this project will equate to roughly $2,500-3,000 per month depending on qualifications and the exact length of the field season. Transportation from mainland California to SCI and housing on the island will be provided. This position will be filled as soon as possible. We seek to begin fieldwork as early as December. To apply, please send a cover letter (outlining your experience and interest specifically related to the requirements of this position), a CV/resume, and contact information for 3 references to Scott Loss ([email protected]).
