The Plant-Pollinator Ecology Team is seeking several field technicians for statewide biological monitoring of grasslands, including monarch butterflies and milkweeds. Field technicians will be measuring the abundance of nectar plants, aiding with pollinator surveys, and observing monarch butterfly eggs and larvae. Duties will include: conducting field surveys of flowering grassland plants, planting of milkweed plants in the field, driving and navigating to study sites, data entry in an office setting, assisting with other office and field work as needed, and work and travel in small teams.
Candidates must have field experience in plant or insect biology (candidates that have worked on other taxa will be considered), or undergraduate course work in biology, ecology, botany, entomology, or related fields. A valid driver’s license is required. Applicants must be willing and able to work outside under sometimes difficult field and environmental conditions (summer heat, rain, biting and stinging arthropods, poison ivy, etc.) while following detailed protocols for data collection. Travel to study sites with overnight stays, driving responsibilities, and competent use of a computer and other electronic equipment (including light power tools and GPS) are also required for this position. A strong applicant will demonstrate good organizational skills as well as the ability to work independently and in a group setting. This position will begin on approximately May 24, 2021. Position will end during the first half of September. Start and end dates are somewhat flexible.
Salary: $13 per hour, 40 hours per week.
To Apply: Email cover letter explaining your interests, qualifications, and dates of availability, CV/resume, and contact information for two references to Belén Muñiz at [muniz3@illinois.edu%20]muniz3@illinois.edu (please include “Summer Field Technician” in the subject line). Applications received before March 19th, 2021 will be given priority consideration; however, this position will remain open until filled.
The official job posting can be found in the link below:
Plant Pollinator Technician (Hourly) – Illinois Natural History Survey/PRI
Thank you.