*Position*: Seasonal Field Technician *Project*: Evaluating Cover Crop Benefits to Pollinators and Pollination in Almond Orchards
*Location*: University of California Davis *Employer*: University of California Davis: January 15st to March 10th *Pay*: $15/hr (~$600/week) *Call for Applications*: The Williams Lab (https://williamslab.ucdavis.edu/) is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented individual to work as a full-time field technician from January 15st to March 10th. The technician will be employed through UC Davis and will work with a team of four other crew members exploring the effects of cover crops in almond orchards on pollinator interactions. *Project Background*: Pollinator forage plantings have been shown to offer many benefits to both honey bees and wild bees that can bolster almond pollination and production. Interest has been growing regarding the use of cover crops planted between tree rows to support bees. Previous research conducted by the lab has demonstrated the effectiveness of orchard boarder plantings on sustaining pollination, however we lack data on the effects of cover crops within orchards. There are several research questions we hope to explore within this context. 1. What is the phonology of the cover crop plantings growing in the region? 2. When do bees use cover crop flower resources in relation to the almond bloom? 3. Does the cover crop compete for pollination services with the almond bloom? 4. Does the cover crop benefit nut yield though pollination? *Responsibilities and Qualifications:* The field technician will participate in all aspects of data collection for this field experiment. Ideal applicants would enjoy working outside and are looking to foster their career in pollination ecology, ageroecology, or both. They must be able to maintain a positive attitude in the field, be detail oriented, and be willing to work as part of a dynamic team. Previous experience working in the field (either during their college education or after) is a must. *Noteworthy Hiring Details*: The candidate would need to find housing in Davis, California, and be available to work on weekends. *Application*: Please send a cover letter and resume to Colin Fagan at [email protected] by Friday*, 11/ 2/ 2018*. The cover letter should convey specific relevant research experience and describe interest in the cover crop project.
