Field Crew Leader and Bird Bander (2 positions)

Contribute to the long-term ecological study of black-throated blue warblers that we have run continuously for 40 years at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in the stunning White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. In collaboration with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, Vermont Center for Ecostudies, and Dartmouth College, current research focuses on the effects of environmental change on breeding behavior as well as other topics on the ecology of these birds. The field crew is largely composed of undergraduates participating in the Hubbard Brook Field Ornithology Program, with many opportunities for mentorship and collaboration on student projects to enrich your experience.

Crew leaders should have experience nest searching and managing field technicians. Banders should have prior experience color banding and obtaining blood samples from songbirds from the brachial vein, and experience deploying radio transmitters will be especially valuable. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and U.S. bank account. Crew members will be collecting data for multiple research projects on Black-throated Blue Warblers and will be expected to be active participants in all aspects of this bird research. The position involves color band resighting, nest searching, territory mapping, behavioral observations, song recording, video recording and transcription of parental care, insect and small mammal surveys, and measuring vegetation. Other opportunities may include the set-up and maintenance of radio towers, hand-tracking adults and fledglings, and collecting molt measurements. We are seeking applicants with good color vision, the ability to hike and work alone in remote, rugged, and steep terrain, with an interest in avian ecology.

Field work starts May 1st and continues through early August, with the possibility of extension through late August. Lakeside housing on the beautiful Likens Conservation Campus at Mirror Lake will be provided and a stipend of $2600/month (bander) and $3000/month (crew leader), wifi, and utilities. Many opportunities for exceptional hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and birding can be found in the immediate area.

If interested or have questions, please contact Dr. Sara Kaiser (sak275@cornell.edu). To apply, send a brief cover letter describing your interest and experience, CV, and the contact information for 2 references that can comment on your field experience to Dr. Todd Jones at (jonestm@si.edu). Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Old Growth Forest Research Assistant Positions, Summer 2023

Summary

The Harvard Forest (HF) seeks two talented and enthusiastic individuals to assist with field sampling campaigns and subsequent management and analysis of tree-ring and ecological data. The successful candidates will collect plot-level forest census data and tree-ring samples across the Northeastern U.S./indigenous lands (from Abanaki/Wabanaki to Nipmuc, Haudenosaunee, Susquehannock, and Shawnee Tula lands). This project, funded by the National Science Foundation, will study ecological memory, global change, and extreme climate events across spatial and temporal scales to better understand the complexity of canopy disturbances and ecological processes of forests over time. The tree-ring dataset produced here will be, perhaps, unprecedented in terms of species diversity, ecological state, and temporal coverage in broadleaf-dominated old-growth forests. Funds are available to offset travel costs to the HF once hired.

Duties and Responsibilities

Candidates will work directly with a Research Assistant and two Primary Investigators to assist in an expected total of five weeks of vegetation sampling in multiple old-growth forests in the Northeastern United States.  Assistants will:

Participate in vegetation sampling in old-growth forests. (40%);

Prepare measure, cross-date, and analyze tree-ring samples (55%); and

Assist P.I. on data analysis, data interpretation, and table and figure preparation (5%).

Required Education, Experience, and Skills

College background in Botany, Ecology, Forestry, Biology, Geography, or Earth Sciences with experience sampling vegetation is preferred.

Additional Qualifications

Though not required, knowledge of Northeastern US forest flora and forest dynamics, skill with maps and compass, familiarity with mapping, surveying/orienteering, and database entry would enhance your application. The ability to work well with others, however, is essential.  Successful applicants will have a strong interest to work with interdisciplinary science teams and serious interest in environmental research. Regretfully, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for staff positions.

Working Conditions

Must be willing to work outdoors under all weather conditions including wet, cool, and rainy days. A valid driver’s license (for at least the past 2 years) and an excellent driving record is preferred.  Applicants must be capable of walking/hiking approximately 2-5 miles each day. Old-growth forests are often on rather steep slopes with thin soils or talus microsites. We work as a team and we work safely. The ability to carry a pack (20+ lbs.) is needed, but we share the effort of fieldwork in landscapes that can be rugged.

Project Team Philosophy

We believe in conducting science with both humility and intellectual rigor. We respect all people and will combat institutional racism and gender bias at every opportunity. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and to fostering a welcoming and stimulating environment so that project participants can develop, grow, and achieve their professional goals.

Compensation, Benefits and Application Process

Competitive salary for these 12-week, 40 hrs./week, temporary positions is $15.00/hour.

In addition, the successful candidates will have access to funds to offset most of the cost of rent during these appointments in Harvard Forest housing. Note: there are no requirements to live on site. If that is the case, the successful candidate must be able to have their own transportation to commute each working day to the Harvard Forest from a nearby community.

Finally, funds are available to assist with relocation costs to and from the HF at the beginning and end of the position from the successful candidate’s current place of residence.  Field campaigns are being planned for late spring and summer 2023, COVID depending. Positions could start in May 2023, depending on availability, but would not start much later than June 1, 2023 and are not expected to extend longer than 12 weeks.  Apply by sending PDF bundled cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 relevant references to hfapps@fas.harvard.edu — Subject line: Field Technicians – Northeast Old Growth Forest Project

Initial Reviews Begin: January 25, 2023

Position Closes: Wednesday February 1, 2023

Interviews expected to begin in late February 2023 with offers expected to be made shortly thereafter.

https://harvardforest.fas.harvard.edu/employment#fieldtech

The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) is seeking a Scientific Illustration intern for Spring 2023. SERC conducts research often covers complex systems, involving interactions among multiple biotic, abiotic, and human elements. Diagrams, images, and schematics can be integral in demonstrating these complex relationships, both to research and lay audiences.

Compensation: $625/week, onsite housing is provided

Duration: 11 weeks

Application Deadline: February 3, 2023

A mutually agreeable start date will be determined with the selected applicant. We anticipate a start date in mid to late March 2023. We envision this as an on-site internship on our campus in Edgewater, Maryland. However, we are open to discussing hybrid and potentially remote options with well qualified candidates.

This intern will work with the SERC Public Engagement team and Fisheries Conservation Lab to identify areas related to human-ecosystem interactions that could be conveyed by illustration. Examples could include the ecosystem value of restored oyster reefs and the migration patterns of migratory fish. We envision the illustrations being used as part of research and communications efforts. Ideally, the intern will have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork and lab work related to the illustrations and visual products that they will create.

In addition to the independent project, the intern will be broadly exposed to and participate in SERC public engagement and research activities. Responsibilities may include taking creating website content, collecting data and working with volunteers in the field on a variety of projects, engaging with K-12 students and educators, interacting with SERC researchers, and communicating SERC research to members of the public through direct and virtual interactions.

We are seeking applicants with some (but not necessarily all) of the following:

  *   Experience with visual art and/or graphic design

  *   Experience developing videos, social media posts, and other communication products

  *   Coursework and/or experience in ecology or environmental science

  *   Interest and some understanding of environmental science research

  *   Interest in communicating science to a variety of audiences

  *   Ability to work independently

  *   Ability to work as a part of an interdisciplinary team

To apply, please email a resume that highlights relevant experiences to Alison Cawood at cawooda@si.edu.

The SERC community recognizes the value of diversity in promoting innovative science and creative solutions, and we strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We recognize that each applicant for this role will bring unique skills, knowledge, experiences and background to this position. The Smithsonian Institution is an equal opportunity employer, committed to a policy of non-discrimination on the basis of race/ethnicity, national origin, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, marital/parental/caregiver status and disability.

The Cooperative Institute for Great Lakes Research (CIGLR) administers an annual Great Lakes Summer Fellows Program, in partnership with the NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL). We place promising undergraduate (junior or senior as of Fall 2023) and graduate students with both academic and federal research mentors.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Western Forest Initiative (WFI) seeks 4 field crew members to join our team of graduate students and scientists. These positions involve examining old growth forests for growth, mortality and recruitment, mapping down woody debris, measuring fuels, and surveying seedlings and herbaceous plants. Work begins in the Yosemite Forest Dynamics Plot (Yosemite National Park, California), continues to Wind River Forest Dynamics Plot (Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington), and finishes in the Utah Forest Dynamics Plot (Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah). Two lab trucks will carry gear and any technicians who do not have or do not want to bring a personal vehicle.

DURATION:

mid May through mid August 2023

The work schedule is four, ten hour days per week.

PAY:

$16.50 per hour.

We provide campground and field station accommodations (camping at Yosemite and Cedar Breaks, field station in Wind River), and we provide work food and all group cooking gear.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of western flora, tree pathogens, and forest insects is helpful, as is solid experience with outdoor living. Candidates may have experience taking vegetation data, working safely in challenging environments, and following complex protocols. Work will involve moving through sometimes rough terrain and carrying up to 20 lbs of additional gear. Must have a valid drivers license (no recent DUI or reckless driving).

TO APPLY:

Please assemble the following into a single PDF file and send to soren.struckman@usu.edu with the subject line “WFI 2023 Job Application”

1) one page cover letter describing your reasons for applying and specific dates of availability including any planned mid summer absences, or a statement that you plan none. Your stated first available day should be the day you can be in Yosemite National Park.

2) one or two page resume.

3) unofficial transcripts.

4) names, phone numbers, and email addresses of three references.

*applications will be reviewed as they are received, but no later than 10 February 2023

The BeeMORE program at NC State is an eight week summer research experience funded by the USDA – NIFA Research and Extension Experiential Learning for Undergraduates (REEU) Fellowships Program that focuses on building awareness and fundamental skills in the areas of microbiology and bee biology. Our program will give eight undergraduates the opportunity to investigate diverse topics that highlight the importance of bees as pollinators, the role of pollinators in crop productivity, the importance of microbes in earth ecology, and the specific role of microbes in bee health and disease.

Students will receive stipends of $500 per week during the program, lodging in the Wolf Village student apartments, and a daily food allowance. There are limited travel funds available for participants from outside the state, with preference given to those traveling the farthest. The dates for the 2023 program are May 26th to August 1st.

The BeeMORE program is open to all rising sophomore, junior, and senior undergraduate students enrolled in a university program leading to a baccalaureate degree. Applicants should have an interest in interdisciplinary research of importance to agriculture and STEM disciplines, preferably with future plans for graduate school or industry careers. Students from institutions other than NCSU are encouraged to apply, though there will be some slots available for NCSU students. Members of demographic groups that are underrepresented in sciences are especially encouraged to apply.

The application deadline is Jan 31.

https://harvest.cals.ncsu.edu/beemore/

Willamette Valley Project: Botany Interns

The USACE’s environmental stewardship mission includes managing and restoring critical wetland and upland prairie systems that support designated critical habitat for the Fender’s blue butterfly, Kincaid’s lupine, and Willamette daisy. The interns will assist with monitoring endangered plants, creating botanical species lists, and surveying for aquatic and sensitive plants. Additional duties will include removing invasive plants (including hand-pulling), assisting with nursery and greenhouse operations, collecting and processing seed, assisting with wildlife surveys, entering data, processing plant collections, and other duties as assigned.

Fender’s blue butterfly habitat monitoring (Lupine and nectar species) – 15%

Rare plant surveys with full species lists – 15%

Plant community monitoring – 10%

Invasive plant species mapping and removal – 10%

Seed collection and plant propagation – 10%

Willamette daisy monitoring – 10%

Bradshaw’s Lomatium monitoring – 10%

Data entry – 10%

Wildlife monitoring – 5%

Other duties as assigned – 5%

Minimum Qualifications:

· Ability to work outdoors in remote settings and inclement weather

· Interest in botany and conservation

· Willingness and ability to work well independently and as a team

· Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs (day pack/bags of soil/plant trays)

· Ability to navigate by maps, aerial photos, compass, and GPS

· Effective written and verbal communication skills

· Attention to detail

· A positive attitude

· Knowledge of spreadsheets and word processing programs and willingness to bring your personal computer to the office to conduct office work

· Willingness to ride in and work from boats

· Valid driver’s license and the ability to report on time to the USACE Fern Ridge Lake office

· Knowledge of Northwestern U.S. plants and/or coursework in biology and botany

· Ability to track, inventory, and maintain USACE-provided field gear

Preferred qualifications:

·  Experience using ArcGIS and Field Maps applications

· Familiarity with technical plant identification methods including the use of dichotomous keys in regional floras of Washington, Oregon, or California

· Knowledge of manual techniques for managing non-native plants or trail crew experience

· Experience working in plant nurseries, agriculture, or gardening

Compensation amounts:

– $375 – weekly living allowance

– $40 weekly commuting allowance

– $950 – monthly housing allowance (12 months of housing)

– $2,500 duty travel reimbursement + one-time UP TO $650* reimbursable (to/from site for candidates outside the local area)

– Monthly Health insurance (optional for 12 months)

– AmeriCorps eligible ($6,495 education award for 1700 hours & completion of the internship)

*Internship positions with the US Army Corps of Engineers will receive the travel allowance as a reimbursable amount, reflecting the actual costs based upon distance (mileage) travelled and current federal per diem rates. Interns are required to submit an expense report to SCA with documented round-trip travel costs for reimbursement. The requested reimbursement amount is capped at $650.

https://www.thesca.org/serve/position/botany-interns/po-00734763

All allowances subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes

For SCA’s COVID-19 guidance, please refer to www.thesca.org/covid

The Mihaljevic Lab at Northern Arizona University (NAU) in beautiful Flagstaff, AZ, is seeking applications for two Research Experience for Undergraduate (REU) positions to support an NSF- funded project that examines how climate and infectious disease interact to affect long-term rates of species extinction. The successful candidates will be excited to conduct laboratory experiments, conduct field surveys, and/or build computational models to answer key ecological questions about host-pathogen interactions and climate change.

We are looking for two students. The selected candidates will have options to help conduct experiments, assist with field work, and build simulation models of disease spread, using a study system of Ambystoma tigrinum virus and its tiger salamander host in Arizona. Ultimately, REU students will collaborate with mentors to design independent research projects.

Who Should Apply?

All students in the program must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals or permanent residents of the U.S. Students must be entering or continuing in an Associates or Baccalaureate degree program following this internship; you must have at least one more semester remaining in college to complete your undergraduate degree. As part of the National Science Foundation’s commitment to broadening participation in STEM fields, we especially encourage students to apply who identify as belonging to historically minoritized groups in STEM. Students from community-colleges, primarily undergraduate universities, and minority-serving universities are all eligible to apply.

Funding

Students receive an estimated $6,500 stipend, as well as $500 for travel costs. Travel costs can be applied towards housing, but housing is not specifically provided.

Instructions to apply

https://nau.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6tnEGWkIntddYMu

Deadline: 11:59pm Mountain Standard Time on February 3, 2023

JOB DESCRIPTION: The Wyoming Natural Diversity Database (WYNDD) at the University of Wyoming is seeking applications for two lead field technician positions and six field technician positions to conduct forest field inventories in National Forests in Wyoming and Colorado during the summer of 2023. These positions involve measuring and identifying trees following Forest Service common stand exam protocols, measuring down woody material, and assessing understory vegetation by lifeform to gather data to support LiDAR-based analyses of forest structure. Lead field technicians will be responsible for conducting and overseeing crew field sampling efforts, supervising a crew of three field technicians, maintaining safety awareness and practices, coordinating daily field logistics, and maintaining field equipment. Field technicians will be responsible for learning and following detailed protocols, collecting high-quality ecological data, and maintaining field crew effectiveness and cohesion. Work will occur on the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest near Laramie, Wyoming and in the Bighorn National Forest near Sheridan, Wyoming. Transportation to and from field sites will be provided. Crews will camp in the field during the work week, and weekend housing will be provided nearby to field sites.

Duration: May through August 2023 (12-13 weeks), with exact start and end dates TBD

Hours: Minimum 40 hours per week (M-F), with paid overtime for work extending beyond 40 hours

Pay: Lead field technicians $20 per hour plus $30 per hour overtime and daily per diem

         Field technicians $15-$17 per hour plus $22.50-$25.50 per hour overtime and daily per diem

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Crew Leads:

1) At least three years of college course work (or equivalent number of credits) toward a degree in biology, ecology, or a closely related field

2) A valid driver’s license and a driving record that will pass the motor vehicle records inspection by the University of Wyoming

3) Experience driving a 4WD/AWD vehicle on unpaved surfaces and in rough terrain

4) Knowledge of western forest trees

5) Experience working or recreating in remote settings without cell service or internet and in adverse weather conditions

6) At least one season of experience collecting biological data in the field

7) Ability to hike in rough, uneven terrain carrying up to 35 lbs and to engage in prolonged periods of physical work

8) Ability to operate on a flexible schedule that may change on short notice

9) Ability to accurately record data

10) Strong personal motivation and a willingness to maintain a positive, productive attitude under challenging conditions

Field Technicians:

1) At least two years of college course work (or equivalent number of credits) toward a degree in biology, ecology, or a closely related field

2) A valid driver’s license and a driving record that will pass the motor vehicle records inspection by the University of Wyoming

3) Comfortable working or recreating in remote settings without cell service or internet and in adverse weather condition

4) Experience following complex, detailed protocols

5) Ability to hike in rough, uneven terrain carrying up to 35 lbs and to engage in prolonged periods of physical work

6) Ability to operate on a flexible schedule that may change on short notice

7) Ability to accurately record data

8) Strong personal motivation and a willingness to maintain a positive, productive attitude under challenging conditions

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

1) Previous experience on a field crew

2) Knowledge of the ecology, composition, and dynamics of western forests

3) Experience operating geospatial equipment

4) Experience working or recreating in bear country

TO APPLY: Please assemble the following into a single PDF and send to Paige Copenhaver-Parry (pcopenha@uwyo.edu) with the subject line “Forest Technician 2023 Application”

1) A 1-2 page cover letter describing your interest in the position, whether you are applying to work as a lead field technician or a field technician, a description of your experience and qualifications as they relate to the minimum and desired qualifications, a justification for any minimum qualifications that you do not meet, and your dates of availability including start and end dates and any planned absences (or a statement that you plan no absences).

2) A resume or CV

3) An unofficial transcript

4) Names, phone numbers, and email addresses for three professional references

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, but all application materials must be received by February 10, 2023

The Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust is a nature preserve and land trust operating over 11 miles of trails across 863 acres of preserved land. This private land trust is dedicated to pursuing excellence in native habitat restoration and is open to the public every day of the year.

The Pennypack Trust is a vibrant place located in Upper and Lower Moreland Townships, hosting 40,000 visitors per year and one the county’s most diverse bird populations. Wild beaver, mink, and coyotes thrive here.

The Stewardship Crew Manager is responsible for leading a positive and collaborative team that manages ecological connections among forests, grasslands, riparian and wetland communities. The manager works with all aspects of the Trust from research to education. The Stewardship Crew Manager is a teacher and role model, guiding interns, part-time staff, and volunteers to enhance the Preserve.

Description: The Stewardship Crew Manager leads a group of 2 other full-time employees, 2-6 seasonal part time interns, and a variety of volunteers. They are responsible for maintaining the safety, aesthetics, and ecological functions of an 863+ acre nature preserve and land trust that’s growing.

Basic Qualifications: The Stewardship Crew Manager must blend thoughtful hard work, care for a healthy environment, and the safety of their teammates and visitors alike. The successful candidate will have the following attributes:

  *   Highly motivated, responsible, reliable, and dependable

  *   Must possess horticultural knowledge of Mid-Atlantic native plants and invasive species

  *   Experienced with plant community restoration efforts

  *   Flexible in dealing with a changing work environment and changing work plans

  *   Desire to lead by example and demonstrate tasks given to direct reports

  *   Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

  *   Successfully pass a background check

  *   Must carry out tasks in a professional manner and have an aptitude for injecting positive energy and good humor into the workday.

  *   A minimum associates or bachelor’s degree in horticulture, plant science, landscape design forestry or related field from an accredited college or university or recognized certificate in horticulture is strongly desired.

Necessary Experience:

Candidates must have experience with professional landscape practices including but not limited to planting, native and non-native plant identification, experience operating gas-powered equipment (such as string-trimmers, chainsaws, etc.) as well as larger machinery (zero-turn mowers, walk-behind brush mowers, tractors and their implements).

A minimum of 3 years experience preferably at a public garden, arboretum, natural park setting, or landscape maintenance and installation crew. 3 years experience managing a crew of 3 or more, responsibility for health and safety and related training/PPE management. Seasonal planning and adaptation of work and maintenance routines for volunteers, interns, staff crews, and equipment. As a leader it is expected that this person will seek opportunities for professional development and skill building and demonstrate that to direct reports.

Advanced Experience:

Woodland or grassland restoration implementation and maintenance. Herbicide application, use of back-hoes, tractors and their implements. Other construction or trades experience.

Responsibilities:

  1.  Oversee, plan work tasks, and delegate to the stewardship team and volunteers

  2.  Develop and implement a wide variety of seasonal or multi-season projects. These projects may include trail improvements/repair, site clearing for reforestation areas, herbicide application, coordination with outside contractors*

  3.  Train staff, interns and volunteers to perform general landscape duties such as mowing, planting, weeding, debris management, etc.

  4.  Proactively responsible for the seasonal maintenance and replacement of tools, small engine implements, and heavy equipment.

  5.  Monitor and inspect landscape conditions for regular maintenance or corrective action*

  6.  Select and source, supplies such as trees, shrubs, tools, and protective equipment*

  7.  Periodically assist with public events, tours, educational programs, and membership activities

  8.  Writing and computer skills are required sufficient to draft policies and procedures for equipment use and maintenance, document land management activities, maintain observation logs, etc.

*Indicates shared or collaborative roles with the lead horticulturalist, research & restoration coordinator, and executive director.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:  Stewardship staff spends the majority of their time outdoors in all seasons. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. The successful candidate must:

  *   Spend multiple hours outdoors in all weather

  *   Work while exposed to poison ivy, biting and stinging insects, ticks

  *   Hike 2-5 miles/day on rough terrain

  *   Engage in sustained physical activity throughout the day

  *   Lift up to 50 pounds

  *   Must be comfortable working from a ladder, lift or other high places

Reports to: Executive Director and works closely with the Research & Restoration Coordinator

Compensation and Benefits: This position is full time, salaried, with a full range of benefits including paid time off, healthcare, dental, life insurance, and a limited retirement savings match plan. Salary begins at $55,000, higher commensurate with experience. The Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust is committed to diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage qualified candidates from all cultures and communities to apply. Due to the managerial duties of this role, work-from-home is not permitted.

The work week is commonly M-F, rarely exceeds 40 hours per week. The Trust encourages and funds training and related travel, peer institution collaboration, and other forms of professional development.

To Apply: Email your resume and cover letter to Chris Mendel, Executive Director, to cmendel@pennypacktrust.org