In cooperation with the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), the Great Basin Institute is recruiting two Shrew Survey Field Technicians (Field Technicians) to assist with surveys of Preble’s shrew (Sorex preblei) and Merriam’s shrew (S. merriami) across northern Nevada. The goal of this project is to conduct the first large-scale survey for Preble’s shrew in Nevada (a listed species in the NDOW Wildlife Action Plan) and to address Merriam’s Shrew where feasible because the two species may co-occur in many areas.
Project objectives include conducting the first statewide survey for Preble’s shrew at both xeric and mesic systems across northern Nevada. The two-person crew will survey preselected areas within suitable habitat, concentrating on low to mid-elevation sagebrush systems, salt desert scrub, and upper mid-elevation mountain sagebrush communities. In these habitat types, the crew will focus their starting locations at springs and riparian areas and then place trapping grids from these mesic systems into the proximate uplands. Along with trapping, the crew will collect basic habitat data. Most of the survey sites will be on public land. An additional objective is to test and refine the protocol that provides for live-trapping and genetic sample collection of Preble’s shrew and other shrew species. In particular, the crew will use a survey design that will test minimum survey effort and detectability, trap effectiveness, seasonal effects on trapping success, and the influence of rain events on capture rates. Field Technicians must be able to work in remote, difficult terrain that may include slopes with unstable footing, and withstand exposure to adverse weather. This work is physically demanding and requires off-trail hiking while conducting surveys. Throughout the field season, surveys may be conducted at all hours of day and night. Overnight camping in backcountry locations will be required to maximize field time and opportunities for checking traps. Travel to survey sites may require driving on rough, unimproved roads. Radio communication will be necessary for emergencies and for communication with project managers. Timeline: o 2 May - 30 September 2016 (22 weeks) o 5 days (40 hours during Monday-Friday) per week Compensation: o Wage: $15.00 per hour o $20 field per diem o Health insurance provided o Housing provided Location: This work will be based at the NDOW office in Elko, NV. Field surveys will take place at designated sites within suitable habitat across northern Nevada. NDOW trailer housing will be provided in Elko. Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree or coursework in Wildlife Ecology, Natural Resource Management, or related discipline; • Understanding of basic principles related to mammalian ecology and wildlife study design; • Relevant or related field experience, specifically including: o Small mammal trapping and handling in Nevada’s sagebrush plant communities, pinyon-juniper woodlands, Sierra conifer woodlands and riparian areas; o Implementing statistically robust small mammal trapping protocols in remote settings; • Background and/or interest in the ecology, conservation and management of small mammals, particularly Sorex sp., and their habitats in northern Nevada; • Ability to navigate and set a bearing using a compass, navigate to predetermined locations using GPS, and read a topographic map; • Demonstrated organizational skills including the ability to thoroughly collect quality data as well as complete and enter data forms; • Familiarity with using GIS to manipulate spatial data and generate maps preferred; • Familiarity with backcountry safety practices (required) and low impact principals; • Physically fit to work outdoors, carry personal and field equipment, and withstand working and camping in inclement weather during spring and summer in northern Nevada; • Willingness and ability to camp in remote settings for consecutive nights; • Possess a clean, valid, state‐issued driver’s license and the ability to safely operate a 4WD vehicle on and off paved roads; • Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally, with a diverse audience; and • Ability to work productively, consistently and cooperatively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals. To Apply: Please follow this link to apply using our online portal: http://crcareers.thegreatbasininstitute.org/careers/careers.aspx?rf=ECOLOG&req=2016-RAP-071 The Great Basin Institute conforms to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit Retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.
