We are seeking to recruit one field technician and two student field assistants to contribute to an ongoing research project focused on measuring and mapping invertebrate availability as a food source for birds in Golden Valley and Musselshell Counties, MT. The selected applicants will be responsible for collecting field measurements, insect samples and map validation data. Collection methods follow established protocols that will be taught under the supervision of a field coordinator, with an emphasis on ensuring quality data handling and consistent reporting. Results will be synthesized for analysis and presented in progress reports prepared for the State of Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Field technicians may interact with private landowners or other agency professionals during the regular course of field work and must be comfortable with this. Job Length: Full-time seasonal support is available for up to two field seasons (4/8/2019 - 7/19/2019, 4/13/2020 - 7/17/2020). Compensation: $12 - $16 per hour. Lodging, transportation and per diem provided during the field effort. Required Qualifications • Pursuit of a degree in entomology, ecology or a related natural resources field • Excellent organizational and communication skills • Attention to detail and ability to follow a detailed protocol • Ability to carry up to 50 lbs across uneven ground • Valid driver’s license with a good driving record • Professionalism, flexibility, and a positive attitude • Current first aid / CPR certification
Preferred Qualifications • Previous field research experience, preferably in rangeland ecosystems and on private lands • Prior experience identifying rangeland vegetation and insect species • Prior experience with field techniques, including GPS operations, transect sampling and vegetation cover estimation, and invertebrate surveys • Experience interacting with private landowners and agency professionals The successful applicant must be able to work in remote locations and able to live in a communal, rustic setting. If you do not have current First Aid/CPR certification, you must become certified before arriving to begin work. The work schedule is subject to the weather, which may cause unpredictable days off—applicants must be willing to work when needed and take days off when the opportunity arises. Applicants must enjoy working and living in a remote rural area with a diverse group of people including private landowners and livestock producers. Provided lodging will include up to 7 other people working on other field projects. Conditions include extreme temperatures, rain, snow, “gumbo” roads, wind, rattlesnakes, and abundant prickly pear. The rewards include the endless vistas of central Montana, abundant recreation opportunities within a short (1-2 hour) drive, calf branding and roadside chats with ranchers, phenomenal wildlife viewing, and field research experience. A strong work ethic, good physical condition, and sense of humor are a must. The position will require hiking up to several miles each day through sagebrush, over uneven terrain, and in very hot temperatures to reach some sampling sites; and driving a few hours each day in trucks over low maintenance roads. To apply, please send a current resume, 1-page cover letter, and names and contact information for 3 references to Jessica Mitchell (jessica.mitch...@mso.umt.edu) with the subject line “Field Technician - Invertebrate Surveys”. Review of applications will begin January 6th, and continue until suitable applicants are found.
