Description: The desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is federally listed as a threatened species north and west of the Colorado River under the Endangered Species Act. Desert tortoise monitoring will assist researchers in estimating population density and in monitoring translocation sites. Monitoring occurs during April and May to coincide with the peak activity season of desert tortoises. Twelve (12) field monitors and two (2) Telemetry monitors will be required to demonstrate proficiency in backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, and use of GPS, topographic maps, and PDA technology. In addition, DT monitors will be field tested on their knowledge of and ability to follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely. Telemetry monitors will have the sole responsibility of gathering daily location data on focal desert tortoises that serve as controls for the project. Monitors will work for 5 consecutive days with 2 days off and must be available to work any of the 7 days each week, with the understanding that the schedule is subject to change with little or no notice. Field camping is required. This position will require long hours including early mornings and may include weekends.
Compensation: • $4,000.00 Living Allowance • $1,195.00 Education Award • Field Per Diem • Student loan forbearance/interest accrual Contract & Timeline: o March 23, 2015 – May 29, 2015 o Full-time, up to 40 hours per week o Weekend hours may be required during field season Location: Las Vegas, NV Qualifications: o Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field; o Experience collecting field data or following established field data collection protocols; o Experience with telemetry equipment and tracking; o Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for navigation and/or data collection; o Knowledge of southwestern/Mojave flora and fauna desirable; o Self-motivated with ability to maintain a positive attitude while working in a diverse team environment; o Ability to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice; o Ability to walk a minimum of 10km/day in challenging terrain and harsh and rapidly changing desert conditions, and otherwise be in good physical condition; o Willingness to camp in the desert backcountry for consecutive days; o Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license; o Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road if required; and o Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime or the equivalent of two full-time education awards), (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) and federal criminal background checks, (4) Adhere to the rules, regulations and code of conduct as specified in the Member Service Agreement; and (5) Will not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement. How to Apply: Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, résumé, and list of three professional references to Amy Gladding, GBI HR Coordinator, at [email protected]. Please include where you found the position posted. Incomplete applications will not be considered. No phone inquiries, please. This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or religion. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
