Pika Field Surveyors, New Mexico
Seventh Generation Institute, a nonprofit conservation organization based in Santa Fe New Mexico, is seeking 1-4 short-term field biologists to survey for the American Pika in the Pecos Wilderness of northern New Mexico. This opportunity is intended for early career professionals with a background in ecology, wildlife biology, natural resource management, or a closely related field. Selected applicants will gain field experience, learn about the conservation biology of a sensitive species, see some of the most beautiful country in the southern Rockies and demonstrate both independent and team work skills. Pika, herbivorous relatives of rabbits and hares, typically live in rocky, talus slopes, often near highland meadows. They are considered a species of conservation concern because populations are thought to be declining, perhaps due to global climate change. Findings of these surveys will be combined with similar data collected in other states and will inform assessments of pika population status across the Western US. Learn more about Seventh Generation Institute at www.seventh-generation.org. Timeline Start and completion dates are expected to be approximately mid August through the first week of October but actual field days within this period of time may vary due to weather and the possibility of forest fire. Field time per person is expected to be approximately 14-28 days depending on the number of crew hired. Work hours: nontraditional, variable, but generally long and irregular. Candidates will be expected to work weekends or other continuous schedules to complete data collection while on loop routes through the backcountry. Work Description Selected applicants will access trailheads in the Pecos Wilderness, then hike or backpack as needed on routes to predetermined survey sites. All survey sites are off-trail so ability to navigate using a GPS off-trail is vital. After the site is located, surveyors collect data on the presence or absence of pika and various habitat factors. Once the survey is completed, surveyors proceed to the next site, which may be close by or several miles distant. Upon completion of the route, surveyors return to the trailhead. Some routes may be one way and require the use of a vehicle shuttle. Most routes are multi-day and require backpacking. Most trailheads offer campgrounds or the ability to camp in a vehicle. Data collection will use a protocol established by the National Park Service and candidates will receive training in the protocol, identification of pika, habitat, and other relevant factors from the Institute. Physical requirements of the job: Applicants must be capable of hiking on and off-trail at elevations from 7000 to 12000 ft and over rough terrain. All work will be done in teams of two for safety reasons. Work is conducted under harsh environmental conditions, including summer heat, thunderstorms, lightning exposure, remote locations and exposure to bears and mountain lions. Hiking distances per day will vary but may be up to 20 miles with a backpack for carrying personal camping equipment, safety equipment, and data recording equipment. Terrain may be steep, rocky, loose, brushy or slippery. Future opportunities beyond pika surveying exist at the Institute for the right person(s). These may include data entry and analysis for this project as well as work in the Institute's stream restoration projects, communication, media and outreach, working with volunteers, fundraising, etc. Qualifications: Applicants for the position must hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree and/or significant experience in environmental science, wildlife biology, natural resource management, forestry, or a related discipline. Applicants must be in excellent physical condition have excellent eyesight and hearing. Corrected vision using glasses or contacts is acceptable. Applicants must have previous field experience that demonstrates the following: • Adhering to field data collection protocols and accurately collecting and recording field data. • Use of a GPS unit. • Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle on unpaved roads that can be steep and rutted. A valid driver's license and clean driving record. • Ability to work productively and cooperatively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals. • Ability to backpack and work productively in remote areas and maintain personal safety. • Certification in wilderness first aid is desirable. Equipment Candidates must provide the following: • Personal vehicle to travel from Santa Fe to trailheads. A 4WD is preferred. • Personal camping equipment to include backpacking equipment, clothing, boots, food and water preparation, first aid, etc. • Personal safety and communication equipment to include a cell phone. Other technical equipment • Candidate may use a personal GPS if it is compatible with the Institute's equipment and data requirements or may borrow one from the Institute, with a $350 deposit, which is fully refundable if the unit(s) is/are returned in the same condition as at the start of field work. Location Field work is performed in the Pecos Wilderness, within the Santa Fe National Forest. This is located in southernmost end of the Rocky mountains in northern New Mexico. The successful applicant(s) will need to arrange their own lodging when not in the field. They should be based in the Santa Fe area. Small apartments are sometimes available short term, as are motels, camping in the Santa Fe National Forest or other campground/RV park. Compensation • Mileage from Santa Fe to trailheads will be compensated at the standard IRS mileage rate. • Payment for each route and set of sites completed varies with distance and difficulty but averages $120/day. • Successful completion of the entire data collection effort will result in a bonus, to be prorated among the crew based on days worked and difficulty of sites completed. To Apply: Please email your resume, cover letter, contact information for two references to [email protected]. Please ensure that your subject line reads "Pika Survey Applicant - your name." If you are available for only a portion of the field work period, please specify the dates you are available. As noted above, future opportunities beyond pika surveying exist at the Institute for the right person(s). These may include data entry and analysis for this project as well as work in the Institute's stream restoration projects, communication, media and outreach, working with volunteers, fundraising, etc. Applicants are encouraged to submit a thorough description of their skills, experience and interests. Early consideration will be given as resumes are received. This position will close as soon as it is filled. Seventh Generation Institute is an equal opportunity employer with a drug-free and smoke-free workplace. This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, disability, age, gender, political affiliation, religion or any other protective category.
