. Newingham’s Aridland Ecology Lab is seeking research technicians to assist with the collection and management of field data related to fire and restoration/rehabilitation studies primarily in the Great Basin and Mojave deserts. This is a great opportunity to learn about natural resource issues and land management in collaboration with universities, state, and federal agencies.

Studies include:

•    Effects of post-fire rehabilitation treatments on plants, biological soil crust, and soil properties.

•    Effects of precipitation regimes on plant invasions and reestablishing native plants after fire.

•    Evaluating how grazing after fire affects plant recovery and rehabilitation treatments.

•    Determining effects of post-fire rehabilitation treatments and annual grass invasion on post-fire wind erosion.

•    Effectiveness of restoration treatments on rare plant and wildlife habitat.

Job duties include:

•    Collecting plant and soil data in the field, sample organization, and sample processing in the lab.

•    Data entry and management in Excel.

•    Use of a GPS and ArcGIS.

•    Willingness to travel to remote field sites and camp in primitive settings.

•    Ability to work in varied field conditions that may involve: 1) off-road hiking up and down hills, 2) carrying loads up to 30 lbs, and 3) withstanding periods of inclement weather during all seasons.

•    Working with graduate students and other technicians in the lab.

•    Interacting with scientists and land managers from state and federal agencies, as well as universities.

Minimum qualifications:

•    Education:  Pursuing or attained a BS degree in biology, ecology, natural resources, geology, hydrology, or closely related field.

•    Ability to perform repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy and good organizational skills.

•    Demonstrated ability to work independently and with a group.

•    Strong oral and written communication skills.

Preferred qualifications:

•    Plant identification, soil sampling and processing, proficiency in Excel, use of GPS units and GIS.

Please send a resume, unofficial transcript, a letter detailing your skills, experience, and/or interest, as well as contact information for three references to Beth Newingham at beth.newingham@ars.usda.gov. Full-time employment May – August ($12-18/hr DOE) with possible full or part-time work beyond pending funding. The position is based in Reno, NV. Review of applications will begin April 24th and continue until positions are filled.

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