Title: Ecology and Botany Field Technicians – Research Associate I Number of Positions: 4-6 Work Location: North-central Nebraska; Yankton, SD and Valentine, NE Pay Rate: $13.85/hour, plus housing, vehicle, and per diem Duration: ~4 months (approx. Early June through September)
Summary of Position Colorado Natural Heritage Program seeks 4-6 summer field technicians to use their knowledge of botany and ecology to conduct an accuracy assessment at the Missouri National Recreation River and Niobrara Scenic River in North-central Nebraska. This work entails traveling to remote locations and identifying plant communities based on dominant plant species using the US National Vegetation Classification system. Botanical skills are necessary. Travel to field sites include a combination of daytrips, short camping trips, as well occasional canoe trips. This position provides an excellent opportunity for botanists/ecologists eager to explore a variety of different ecosystems and learn to use the US National Vegetation Classification standard. The Missouri National Recreation River covers 100 miles of North America’s longest river. The park offers a diverse variety of habitats ranging from willow sandbars, shallow marshes, riparian forests, bluff communities, and mixed grass prairies. Niobrara Scenic River is a unique blend of environments brought about by the last ice age. The sand hill prairies to the south are composed of glacial outwash, while the areas north of the river are glaciated plains. Public lands to the south contain herds of bison, and along the river is the eastern most extent of Ponderosa pine. Relict stands of aspen and paper birch are in small side canyons. After this summer, field technicians will have a deep understanding of riparian woodlands and forests, mixed grass prairie communities, and the US National Vegetation Classification standard. Duties 1. Work with a partner to navigate to plot locations and determine plant community. Requires ability to reliably identify plants and plant communities of the project area, identify dominant species and community structure, and document presence of exotic or rare species. 2. Reliably locate field plots, safely and efficiently access sites, complete field forms, operate and maintain field equipment, and effectively manage collected data. 3. Enter and maintain data in electronic formats (databases, spreadsheets, GPS, GIS). 4. Thoroughly document all fieldwork using field notebooks, survey forms, maps, GPS, and digital tablets and cameras. Minimum Qualifications A bachelor’s degree in botany, ecology, natural resources, range management, forestry, or related field. Three years of equivalent field may be substituted for degree. 1. Knowledge of dichotomous botanical keys and field guides 2. Willingness to travel extensively during field season, work unusual schedules (up to 8 consecutive days), backpack, car camp, and live in rustic conditions for extended periods in remote areas 3. Good physical condition and ability to work long hours in the field, travel by foot off-trail in rough terrain, and work through inclement weather 4. Careful attention to detail in collecting data 5. Comfort and familiarity with the use computers 6. Experience or familiarity with the use of GPS Desired Qualifications 1. Familiarity with flora of the north-central great plains (NE/SD) 2. Experience collecting vegetation and environmental data in the field 3. Experience with US National Vegetation Classification 4. One year experience of species identification, community classification, or habitat typing 5. Experience canoeing Availability of positions contingent upon final approval of funding. Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance the Department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------------- To apply: send resume, cover letter, and three references (with phone #’s), to Joe Stevens at joe.stev...@colostate.edu References will not be contacted without prior notification of candidates. Applications will be accepted until all positions have been filled or through June 30, 2017, whichever comes first. For questions regarding this position please contact Colorado State University is committed to providing a safe and productive learning and living community. To achieve that goal, we conduct background investigations for all final candidates being considered for employment. Background checks may include, but are not limited to, criminal history, national sex offender search and motor vehicle history. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------------- Colorado State University is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non- discrimination and affirmative action. The Office of Equal Opportunity is located in 101 Student Services.
