The Canyonlands Research Station in Moab, Utah is recruiting for a term GS-09 Ecologist or Soil Scientist position (GS-0408 or GS-0470). This is a full time position (one year with possibility of extension) with the US Geological Survey, Southwest Biological Science Center. Moab, Utah is a small town offering a variety of outdoor adventures (see www.discovermoab.com for more information on Moab).
Description of Duties: The incumbent will be responsible for carrying out data synthesis and field studies evaluating the impacts of energy development on Colorado Plateau ecosystems, with an emphasis on road networks, dust emissions, and the propagation of invasive species. Incumbent will work as part of an interdisciplinary team that includes restoration specialists, geographers, community ecologists, and soil scientists. The goal of this research effort is to quantify how energy-relate surface disturbances and vehicle traffic are effecting Colorado Plateau ecosystem processes, how sensitivity to those impacts varies across the landscape, and if those impacts can be mitigated with restoration. The project will use a combination of experimental manipulations, monitoring (dust, soils, and vegetation), and modeling. Major duties consist of 1) project planning and management; 2) leading field crews of 1-3 people; 3) collecting vegetation, ground cover, soil, and dust data; 4) using GIS to assemble layers, create random samples, and prepare maps; 5) performing statistical analyses; 6) conduct wind erosion modeling; and 7) preparation graphs, tables, and reports or scientific papers. The work is approximately 60% office and 40% field work. Field work involves withstanding both extreme heat and cold; walking over rough, rocky, or uneven terrain; lifting and carrying equipment and supplies (up to 50 lbs.); long hours; and driving a 4WD truck and all-terrain vehicles on unimproved roads. Qualifications: See http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/Standards/group- stds/gs-prof.asp for the qualifications description. A PhD in ecology, soil science, or related field is preferred. Prior experience with dust erosion research, vegetation and soil measurements, and wind modeling is highly desirable. Additionally, familiarity with statistical analyses, GIS, and preparation of manuscripts for peer reviewed publications is preferred. The incumbent must be in sufficient physical condition to withstand the rigors of the field work. Incumbent also must pass a background check. A valid US driver’s license is required. Salary and start date: Salary is ~$ 48k/year with full health and retirement benefits. A start date of April 2015 is preferred. Application: Applicants MUST be U.S. citizens. Questions should be addressed to [email protected]. Application MUST be submitted through www.usajobs.gov. Job # ATL-2015- 0460 https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/395859800
