Title: Vegetation Technician – NE Washington
Classification: Temporary/seasonal
Agency/Organization: The University of Washington, School of Environmental and Forest Sciences
Dates: July 1st – September 30th
Location: Northeastern Washington (Chewelah / Colville)
Job Description: Knowledgeable field technicians are needed to help survey vegetation in NE Washington part of the Washington Predator-Prey Project (WPPP). The goal of this research is to identify how habitat structure and forage quality impact the movement and mortality rates of elk and white-tailed deer. We have one opening for a paid crew leader ($16/hour, 40 hours/week) and one opening for a volunteer with a stipend ($800/month). Housing will be provided. The field crew will be based in Chewelah and employed by the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences at the University of Washington. They will work on a team with other technicians, volunteers, Ph.D. students (Taylor Ganz), professors (Dr. Laura Prugh), and WDFW biologists.
Duties: The primary duties of the crew will be to survey the vegetation and the habitat structure at randomly selected locations within the study area. The crew is expected to operate without direct supervision and will be responsible for managing and entering this data. Opportunities may exist to monitor collared elk and deer within the study area and assist with necropsies of collared animals as mortalities occur. Other duties will include equipment maintenance and project logistics. There is also an option for the volunteer to start May 20th and assist with neonatal elk and white-tailed deer collaring efforts.
Compensation for the paid technician: $16/hour, 40 hours/week, housing provided
Compensation for the volunteer: $800 per month, housing provided
Qualifications: Applicants must have substantial experience surveying forest structure and classifying vegetation and be able to work independently. Familiarity with the vegetation of NE Washington is highly desired. Applicants must have a MS or bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field. In exceptional cases (e.g., two full seasons of experience), applicants who are currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree will be considered as a volunteer. Adaptability, a strong work ethic, excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, good communications skills, and a positive attitude are highly desired characteristics. Ability to drive 4-WD vehicles on logging roads, hike for multiple hours through rugged terrain, and to carry heavy (>30 lbs) packs is required.
To apply: Please email a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references as a single PDF document, titled ‘yourname_vegetation2019.pdf’ to trganz@uw.edu. Please clearly specify if you are applying for the crew lead or volunteer position. To ensure full consideration, submit your materials by March 17th.