The Ecological Restoration Institute at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff is hiring an experienced field botanist for May-August, 2016. This person will have the knowledge and skills described below to assist with research on forest restoration and ecosystem health projects. The position requires working on crews in the high elevation coniferous forests of Arizona and possibly other locations and ecosystems. This is a full-time, 40 hours per week position for the duration of the field season. Work will consist of 10-hour days; local work in the vicinity of Flagstaff will be in the form of 4-day weeks, and out-of-town work will consist of 8-day trips. All positions will require working in remote backcountry settings with diverse groups of people under potentially adverse field conditions. Candidates must have a valid driver’s license and be able to frequently travel away from Flagstaff (up to 20 days per month) for fieldwork. Employees must be able to carry up to 25 lbs of field equipment in addition to personal gear. Field Botanists are expected to know or quickly learn the flora of southwestern forests to maximize data collection quality and efficiency. Methods will include collecting cover and richness data on vegetation quadrats, point-line intercept transects, and belt transects. They may also collect data on forest structure and fuels as needed. Field Botanists may be asked to lead field crews of other technicians and ensure the efficient and safe collection of high-quality data with limited direct daily supervision.
Desired qualifications: Prior experience in plant community measurements and plant identification, preferably in the western United States or working with ecological restoration research projects. Experience in keying plants or a taxonomy course. Experience with field computers and electronic data collection methods is desirable. Experience leading field research crews. GPS and field navigational skills. CPR, wilderness first aid/WFR training is desirable, but not required. This position requires crew members to work in isolated and rugged mountainous environments at elevations ranging from approximately 5,000-9,500 feet. It also requires work in potentially difficult field conditions (steep slopes, rain, lightning, venomous reptiles, etc.). Field gear will need to be carried across rugged terrain, in addition to a personal daypack. Applicants should be prepared physically and have the appropriate clothing and gear to work and camp in these environments. Salary $12-15.00/hr., depending on position and experience. Subject to funding. Application Deadline Open until filled. How to Apply Please send email introducing yourself along with resume and cover letter to [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>. Contact: Field Botanists seeking additional information should contact Judy Springer, Ecological Restoration Institute, Northern Arizona University, P.O. Box 15017, Flagstaff, AZ 86011; (928) 523-7751; [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>
