Vegetation/Bird Habitat Sampling Technician – Southern Iowa Forest Monitoring

Location: Chariton, IA

Organization: Iowa State University

Contact:  Benjamin M. West (benjwest@iastate.edu)

Closing date:  Wednesday July 10, 2019 or until filled

Start date: Wednesday July 17, 2019

One (1) vegetation/bird habitat sampling field technician is needed to help with the Southern Iowa Forest Monitoring (SIFM) project. The technician will work in forests in southern Iowa, primarily Stephen State Forest, as part of a project assessing the effects of forest management on birds. Specific job duties include (but are not limited to) assisting a graduate student with vegetation sampling, recording data, carrying equipment, identifying trees, and data entry.

Stephens State Forest offers excellent opportunities for birding. Chariton is located an hour south of Des Moines city limits and a half hour from Rathbun Lake.

The position is temporary and full-time (maximum of 40 hours/week), starting July 17 and ending by August 24 at the latest (6 weeks). A typical work week will include four (4) 10-hour days/week, but may vary according to weather. Salary is $11-13/hr dependent on qualifications and experience.  No overtime will be provided.  Vehicles will be provided for work-related travel.

Applicants must have the physical ability to work long hours outdoors, walk long distances, carry field equipment in rough terrain, and wade through water. Applicants should be either have a Bachelor’s degree or be pursing one in forestry, natural resources, biology, or a related field, or possess a Bachelor’s degree in one of these fields. Qualified applicants must be able to work as part of a small team, have a strong work ethic, and be able to work during adverse weather conditions and on weekends, holidays, and evenings as required. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a valid driver’s license, and pass a motor vehicle check to be able to drive a university vehicle. Preferred qualifications include experience with tree identification in the central Midwest and forest vegetation sampling protocols.

To apply please submit as a single document a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three references to Ben West (benjwest@iastate.edu) by 5 PM on July 10, 2019. Applications will be considered as received, and hiring decisions will likely be made before July 10.