Job Opportunity: Conservation Technician in Northern Nevada

POSITION TITLE: Conservation Technician
STATUS: Full Time
REPORTS TO: Conservation Field Manager
POSITIONS REPORTING TO THIS POSITION: Potentially seasonal employees, interns, and contracted crews
LOCATION: Yerington, NV (exact reporting location TBD based on area of focus)
 
BACKGROUND: Established in 2014, the Walker Basin Conservancy (WBC) is leading the effort to restore and maintain Walker Lake while protecting agricultural, environmental and recreational interests in the Walker Basin (www.walkerbasin.org). The nascent and dynamic nature of the WBC and its diverse management obligations provide unique opportunities to develop operations from the ground level up, working closely with staff who are passionate about their mission.
The WBC currently manages thousands of acres of land and assets on multiple properties in the Walker Basin.  Land planning activities are underway and focus on assessing public use opportunities, conservation values, long term land ownership and stewardship, active and passive revegetation and restoration activities. 
JOB PURPOSE: The primary purpose of the Conservation Technician is to support field operations of the Walker Basin Conservancy to ensure the successful transition of retired farmlands to self-sustaining vegetation communities that are able to thrive in the absence of supplemental irrigation. The Conservation Technician will work with the Conservation Field Manager and the Land Manager and other staff to implement and monitor stewardship projects, and is expected to spend a significant amount of time in the field.
A knowledge of desert plant ecology and ecological restoration, nursery or horticultural practices, or agricultural systems, irrigation equipment, and large equipment operation is essential. The Conservation Technicians should also have a sincere interest in expanding their knowledge of Great Basin Desert ecology, restoration practices, the flora and fauna of Nevada, and agricultural methods and equipment.
 
This is an excellent opportunity to work with a young and growing yet thriving organization that is developing programs and operations from the ground up. WBC has a small, talented and dedicated staff who are passionate about our mission, restoration and conservation. We are looking for new people to come aboard and grow with us!
 
LOCATION: Yerington, Nevada is a beautiful rural farming community located approximately 95 miles south of Reno, NV in the foothills of the eastern Sierra mountains. Yerington is small but growing with about 3,100 residents. Established in 1907, the city has heritage and deep roots in agriculture, mining, railroads, and gaming. Some of the nearby attractions, activities and recreational opportunities include:
  • Camping, biking, hiking, backpacking
  • Fishing, hunting and boating and OHV trails
  • Flat and white water boating (1 hour away)  
  • Rock Hounding and climbing
  • Ghost Town Exploration
  • Ski Resorts (1.5-2 hours away)
  • Lake Tahoe (1.5 hours away)
  • Lahontan Reservoir (30 minutes away)
  • Walker Lake (45 minutes away)
  • Topaz Reservoir (45 minutes away)
 
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
 
  • In cooperation with the Conservation Field Manager and Land Manager, implement the day to day operations of conservation lands managed by WBC and track progress of assigned field projects.
  • Assist with all aspects of successful stewardship implementation. Duties may include ground preparation, seeding, planting, irrigation, weed control, or other tasks as necessary.
  • Assist with the control of vegetation and noxious weeds by fire, hand or mechanical removal; herbicide application; or direction of weed control contractors.
  • Install and maintain drip, handline, trench, and wheel line irrigation systems. 
  • Assist with planting shrubs, grasses and forbs from containerized stock and seed as part of the WBC’s re-vegetation program on retired farmlands.
  • Collect and compile field data with program data forms, GPS, cameras and other equipment. Ensure that accurate records of planting and seeding activity, herbicide applications, and irrigation activity are kept and delivered to the appropriate parties.
  • Develop a deep working knowledge off all equipment, irrigation infrastructure, project partners, and vegetation management techniques used by the Program.
  • Responsible for safely operating, maintaining and transporting a variety of small to heavy equipment (hand tools, power tools, tractors, mowers, trimmers, chainsaws, backhoe, water truck, and road grader).
 
Qualifications
  • 3+ years of experience in a natural resources or agricultural or landscaping setting.
  • General experience with and knowledge of irrigation equipment and operations.
  • Ability to safely operate large machinery and vehicles including tractors, ATVs, trucks, and trailers.
  • Ability to use a dichotomous key to identify the native and non-native flora of Nevada.
  • Ability to safely operate chainsaws, brush cutters, backpack sprayers, and other equipment.
  • Ability to keep detailed records, communicate with other staff and supervisors, and to work unsupervised to accomplish program tasks.
  • Clean driving record and a NV State driver’s license, or ability to obtain within 1 month of hire. 
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds and to work long hours in an outdoor setting.
 
Salary & Benefits:
Starting pay $12-$14.50 per hour depending on experience. Housing may be available and will be discussed with top candidates. 
 
Excellent employee benefits package which includes:
  •  A four-day work week;
  • Employer paid health, dental, vision and life insurance plans for employee Retirement 403(b) plan includes a 6% automatic company contribution;
  • 120 hours of annual paid vacation, increasing to 160 hours after first year of employment;
  • 16 hours of annual personal leave;
  • Company paid holiday week between Christmas and New Year’s;
  • 60 hours of annual sick leave;
  • 11 paid holidays;
  • Health and wellness subsidy; and
  • Employer paid professional development.
 
Position will remain open until filled. Only top candidates will be contacted.
 
Please send cover letter and resume to:
Amy Gladding
Subject Line: Conservation Technician
 
Please call (775) 463-9887 ext. 116 with questions.
 
Walker Basin Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer.
 
Equal Opportunity Statement – Walker Basin Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer. WBC does not discriminate against any employee, applicant, director, officer, contractor, or any other person with whom it deals because of race, creed, color, disability, age, sex, veteran status, religion or political affiliation. WBC complies with all federal and local statutes prohibiting discrimination in employment.
 
Disclaimer – The statements contained herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work to be performed by the employees in these positions. The statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in each position. Other responsibilities, duties, and skills may be assigned and management retains the right to add or change the responsibilities, duties, and skills at any time. 
 

Summer 2018 Field Technician Position (Invasive Plant Control)

The Eastern Nevada Landscape Coalition (ENLC) is currently seeking one
(1) invasive plant technician for a five person crew to work in the Elko, NV District of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

INVASIVE PLANT TECHNICIAN DUTIES: Field crews will work with an experienced crew lead while assisting in inventory and management of invasive plants on public lands. Inventory duties include correctly identifying invasive plant species and infestations, surveying, recording and managing data. Invasive plant control will predominantly consist of herbicide application and manual control (hand pulling/hand tools). All technicians will be responsible for driving  large, federal pick-ups (often towing trailers), operating ATVs and UTVs and hiking to treatment/inventory sites. It is also suggested that technicians have navigational skills and can read locations of township and range maps.
Technicians are also required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Some PPE (neoprene gloves, safety glasses, etc) will be provided by the BLM;closed-toed shoes, long pants, and long sleeved shirts must be provided by applicant. Technicians must be comfortable with truck camping in the backcountry for up to 4 days at a time and MUST be physically able to hike while wearing a 40 lb. backpack sprayer over rough and steep terrain.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Qualified applicants should have experience and/or education in invasive plant management, biological sciences, natural resources, plant identification, GIS, rangeland management, or general plant taxonomy and the ability to follow directions and safety protocols. Applicants must be experienced with 4WD vehicles and should have a clean driving record for the past 3 years. Experience with utilizing GPS units and programs (Trimble units and ArcPad) and ATVs/UTVs is a plus. Preference is also given to applicants with mechanical experience and those with experience identifying native and invasive/noxious plants of the Great Basin.

SALARY: $14-16/hour, depending on experience (plus $38/day per diem when
camping)

SCHEDULE: Positions run from late April/early May (start date flexible) through the end of September and follow a 10-hour day/four-day work week. Crews will generally return to Elko in the evenings, though camping near a project site for 4 days at a time will be required for up to two pay periods.

Technicians are responsible for providing their own housing in Elko.

Applicants should email a cover letter, resume, and the contact information for at least three references to Steph Frederick sfrederick@envlc.org. Please include “Invasive Plant Technician” in the email subject line. Materials will be accepted until position is filled.
For more information, please visit our website (http://www.envlc.org) or email Steph.

About ENLC and the Elko Area

Located in Ely, Nevada, ENLC is a non-profit conservation organization comprised of public, private, and non-profit partners dedicated to the restoration of the Western ecosystems through collaborative teamwork.

Elko is located in the remote, northeastern corner of Nevada. The area has a unique blend of Northern Basin and Range and sage brush steppe attributes including beautiful expanses of sagebrush flats and many mountain ranges available for exploring and recreating. The rugged Ruby Mountains lie 20 miles to the southeast of Elko and offer unique hiking, backpacking, climbing, fishing and camping experiences. The city of Elko has a lively downtown area and hosts cultural events throughout the summer (including the International Basque festival, rodeos and the Ruby Mountain Relay).

Summer 2018 Field Technician Position (Invasive Plant Inventory)

The Eastern Nevada Landscape Coalition (ENLC) is currently hiring one (1) invasive plant inventory technician to work in the Elko, NV District of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) on a two person field crew. INVASIVE PLANT INVENTORY TECHNICIAN DUTIES: Field crews will identify and inventory invasive and noxious weeds on public lands, focusing on fire rehab areas that burned in 2017. Inventory duties include identifying invasive plant infestations, surveying, recording and managing data. All technicians will be responsible for driving large, 4-wheel drive pick-up trucks while towing trailers. Utilizing UTVs and/or ATV’s for inventorying large infestations is also required, as well as hiking to and around inventory sites on steep and rocky terrain. Technicians are required to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Technicians must be comfortable with truck camping in the backcountry for up to eight (8) days at a time and MUST be physically able to hike while wearing a backpack over rough and steep terrain. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Qualified applicants should have experience and/or education in invasive plant management, biological sciences, natural resources, botany, GIS, rangeland management, or general plant taxonomy and the ability to follow directions and safety protocols. Applicants must be experienced with 4WD vehicles and should have a clean driving record for the past 3 years. Preference is given to applicants with experience utilizing GPS units and programs (Trimble units and ArcPad) and identifying invasive and state listed noxious weeds of the Great Basin. SALARY: $14.50-$16/hour, depending on experience (plus $38/day per diem when camping) SCHEDULE: Positions run from early May through July (3 months) and the work schedule will occur on an 8-days-on/6-days-off schedule (10-hour days, Thursday-Thursday). The crew will camp near the inventory sites for the eight days of work- returning to town mid-way through hitch to take care of data uploading and to replenish H2O, gear, and fuel. Crew members are responsible for their own housing while working on this project. Applicants should email a cover letter, resume, and the contact information for at least three references to Steph Frederick-sfrederick@envlc.org. Please put “Elko Inventory Technician” in the email subject line. Applications are accepted until positions are filled. Visit http://www.envlc.org/ for more info. About ENLC & The Elko Area Located in Ely, Nevada, ENLC is a non-profit conservation organization comprised of public, private, and non-profit partners dedicated to the restoration of the Western ecosystems through collaborative teamwork. Elko is located in the remote, northeastern corner of Nevada. The area has a unique blend of Northern Basin and Range and sage brush steppe attributes including beautiful expanses of sagebrush flats and many mountain ranges available for exploring and recreating. The rugged Ruby Mountains lie 20 miles to the southeast of Elko and offer unique hiking, backpacking, climbing, fishing and camping experiences. The city of Elko has a lively downtown area and hosts cultural events throughout the summer (including the International Basque festival, rodeos and the Ruby Mountain Relay).

Trail Crew/Conservation Land Steward- Summer/Fall 2018

Interested applicants can find more information/apply online at https://www.squamlakes.org/summer-lrcc. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. Applicants should apply by 8:30 AM on Thursday, March 29.
_______

The Lakes Region Conservation Corps (LRCC) is an AmeriCorps service program that develops skills and experiences for conservation professionals. LRCC members are the driving force behind many of the conservation efforts of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. The program is based out of the Squam Lakes Association with host sites at the Squam Lakes Conservation Society and the Lakes Region Conservation Trust. The program provides hands-on conservation work experience and certifications over a broad range of areas, which ensures that LRCC members are capable of independently approaching a variety of tasks in the environmental conservation field. Members remove invasive species, maintain trail networks, lead volunteer crews, educate the public on local and regional conservation initiatives, and spearhead reports on conservation efforts.
The trainings, certifications, and experiences also develop important professional skills that are applicable to future careers within many occupational and educational fields. The program ensures that LRCC members are capable of independently approaching a variety of tasks, acting as a leader, and thinking critically to solve any problem that may arise. For more information about the LRCC program please visit https://www.squamlakes.org/summer-lrcc.

LRCC members must meet the following qualifications regardless of host
site:
-Available from May 21, 2018 through October 17, 2018 (end date dependent on completion of service hours) -Must be 18 years of age by May 21, 2018 -Must be covered by health insurance for duration of program -Must be a competent swimmer -Able to lift 50 pounds -Able to carry and use heavy tools while hiking -Able to hike at least 8 miles in a day -Able to work independently and with a group -Must apply online -Must pass all certification exams -Must meet the Corporation for National Community Service’s minimum
requirements:
-Must clear all required National Service Criminal History Checks -Must be a US citizen, US national, or legal permanent resident of the US -Must be high school graduates, GED recipients, or must be working toward attaining a high school diploma or GED during their term of service

LRCC members receive the following over the course of the program regardless of host site:
-NH Safe Boating certification
-NH Commercial Boating license
-Wilderness First Aid & CPR Certification -Student loan forbearance on qualifying loans.
-Living allowance  of $200 weekly, distributed biweekly -AmeriCorps Education Award of $2,907 received upon successful completion of program (minimum of 900 hours)

ALL APPLICANTS MUST APPLY ONLINE at https://www.squamlakes.org/summer-
lrcc. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. Applicants should apply by 8:30 AM on Thursday, March 29.

Research Experience for Undergraduates Opportunity in Landscape Planning and Management

Are you an undergraduate student interested in conservation, landscapes, and urban sustainability? Professor Kelli Larson at Arizona State University is looking for an enthusiastic and motivated undergraduate student to participate in research during the summer of 2018. The participant will work with faculty as well as graduate and undergraduate students to explore how people manage their yards and what types of landscapes cities are pursuing for water conservation, biodiversity, and other purposes. The student will work with team members to conduct research on current landscape design trends across cities of the U.S.

The position is located in Metro Phoenix, Arizona, and situated in the northern Sonoran Desert, which is home to the iconic saguaro cactus and charismatic desert animals. ASU is located in Tempe, a lively and vibrant college town with accessible public transportation and amenities.

This REU is a 10-week position that runs from mid-May to mid-August, 2018.
The successful applicant will be awarded a $5,000 stipend, and up to
$3,000 for room and board. Additionally, funding is available for the REU student to prepare and present a poster at the January 2019 CAP LTER All Scientists Meeting in Tempe, AZ.

About the Project
As part of a NSF-funded Macrosystems grant, Larson’s research group is exploring residential landscapes and how they are designed and managed across diverse cities including Phoenix, AZ, Los Angeles, CA, and Miami, FL. Documenting landscaping trends in residential areas is critical for enhancing the environmental and social value of these common urban ecosystems.

Minimum Qualifications
The successful candidate must:
* Be pursuing a degree in geography, planning, sustainability, landscape design/architecture, or a related field.
* Have an interest in environmental research.
* Be able to work in Microsoft programs including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
* Have solid written and verbal communication skills.
* Be able to work independently and as part of a team.

Desired Qualifications
* Interest in developing this research into an Honors thesis and/or for publication.
* Experience in conducting social science research.

Eligibility
Undergraduate students enrolled in a degree program (part-time or full-
time) leading to a Bachelor’s degree. The funding also requires the student to be must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or permanent resident of the U.S.

How to apply
Please send cover letter, resume or CV, and unofficial transcripts to Kelli.Larson@asu.edu by April 23, 2018.

Summer Internship Opportunity: ESA Science Outreach Intern

The ESA Office of Science Programs (https://www.esa.org/esa/science/)
seeks an energetic recent graduate or graduate student with strong communication and organizational skills to 1) help enhance our communication and outreach endeavors, and 2) to help manage special ESA meetings, workshops, and training events. A basic background in and appreciation for ecology, biology, and/or environmental sciences is desired.

This is a paid, part-time internship based in ESA’s downtown Washington, DC office, with occasional travel to events in the greater DC area. The position is funded from May 29 – August 31, 2018 and pays $15 per hour.

For details and the official job posting, please see:
https://www.esacareercenter.org/job/903469/science-outreach-intern/

Applications due by Friday, April 20th.

Summer Field Research Technician Raleigh NC

Seeking temporary research technician to assist with field survey and status assessment of the aquatic macrophyte Nuphar sagittifolia in eastern North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia from May 21-Early August 2018. Position will be approximately 20 hours/week, $10/hr, based at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. Duties will be split between field and office work.  The goals of the project are 1) To clarify the taxonomic identity of Nuphar populations 2)To assess population genetics of N. sagittifolia populations 3) To document the location, size and status of N. sagittifolia populations to inform conservation decisions.

Responsibilities:
Bridge and kayak surveys for N. sagittifolia populations range-wide Collect photographs, leaf tissue for DNA extraction, and voucher specimens Data management (photographs, GPS points, field data) Morphology measurements

Qualifications:
Required: At least two college-level courses in related field (botany, ecology, forestry, plant systematics, natural resources etc.)
Preferred: Strong interest in botany and conservation biology Comfort with kayaking (kayak can be provided) Proficiency in data entry and management Ability to work independently after training Ability to accommodate a flexible schedule Applicants must have a vehicle for surveys (gas costs reimbursed)

Start Date: May 21, 2018
Approximate End Date: Early August 2018. Hours per week may vary due to field conditions or project needs. Position is funded for approximately
11 weeks at 20 hours per week.
Hourly Wage: $10

To Apply:
Submit application, including resume and cover letter, at:
https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/98635. Review of applications will begin April 3; position will remain posted until filled.

Contact Katherine Culatta: keculatt@ncsu.edu with questions

Field Research Assistant

The Mitchell lab at UNC-CH is seeking two full-time field assistants to help conduct research in plant disease ecology in the summer and fall of 2018. Assistants will work on a grant-funded project examining the role of the plant microbiome in pathogen transmission. Most work will be done in the field, but the position will also include work in the lab. Work will include collecting data and plant samples in the field, processing plant samples for lab assays, and culturing fungal pathogens from infected plant material.

Required Qualifications:
a) A valid driver’s license and personal mode of transportation to an off-campus field site
b) Willingness and ability to work early mornings and outdoors in summer heat, inclement weather, and around insects.
c) Ability to work well independently and with a team, pay attention to detail, and maintain exceptional communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:
a) Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
b) Experience conducting field research in ecology
c) Experience with biological laboratory procedures such as pipetting and culturing

Special Physical and Mental Requirements (ADA considerations):
Capacity and willingness to conduct outdoor field work during the daytime hours of summer. Field work will involve long periods of time spent positioning to observe vegetation and will be performed in all weather conditions that do not pose a danger to persons.

Hourly rate: $12.20/hr – Housing not provided.

Start Date: First assistant hired May 14th, second assistant hired June 14th.

Job Duration: 5 – 6 months.

To apply for this position, please visit http://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/137278 and be prepared to provide a one-page cover letter, a resume, and contact information for two people who can serve as
references.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.

Conservation Intern Opening – AmeriCorps Member – Hungry Horse, MT (near Glacier National Park)

Interested in gaining hands-on conservation field experience while building relationships with the Forest Service? We have a last minute opportunity for a Conservation Intern position with the Montana Conservation Corps located in Hungry Horse, MT. If interested, please apply ASAP (before March 30th)!
**MUST HAVE BACKCOUNTRY AND TRAIL MAINTENANCE EXPERIENCE**

APPLY HERE: https://careers-mtcorps.icims.com/jobs/1239/conservation-
intern

General Information:
MCC’s Conservation Intern program provides opportunities for college students and recent graduates to gain professional experience in a conservation-related field.  Conservation Interns serve at partnering federal, state, and nonprofit agencies across the state of Montana and neighboring states.

Location: Varies based on host site placement (MT & neighboring states) Position Dates:
Summer Term: 5/16/18 – 8/17/18
Extended Term:  5/16/18 – 10/5/18
Living Allowance: $504 bi-weekly
AmeriCorps Education Award upon completion of the program.

Each internship is focused to help develop the interns’ professional skill set while providing expertise and valuable contributions to the host site. Conservation Interns (CI) are placed individually with a partner organization and work under the direct supervision of the Host Site Supervisor while coordinating with the MCC Program Manager to ensure successful completion of the program objectives.  CIs serve on a variety of projects including GPS and GIS projects, river ranger patrols, wildlife inventory, data analysis, public outreach and education, trails projects, research, and invasive weeds management.

Requirements:
– High school degree or GED
– Available for duration of entire term of service; commitment to completing term (MUST BE ABLE TO START ON MAY 16th!)
– US Citizenship or lawful permanent US Resident
– Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check
– Strong service ethic and desire to serve the community and the environment
– Willingness to work long hard hours in all weather conditions
– Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, as determined by the host site and MCC
– Ability to provide personal transportation to worksites, housing, and training

Preferred Qualifications:
– Comfortable working and camping in a backcountry setting
– Experience with trail maintenance/building
– Crosscut and chainsaw experience
– Able to hike at high elevations for long periods of time
– Experience interacting with the public/relaying trail etiquette information

More Details:
– The available host site is located at a Forest Service Ranger District in Hungry Horse, MT. Hungry Horse is located just outside of Glacier National Park.
– Shared housing is provided

APPLY HERE: https://careers-mtcorps.icims.com/jobs/1239/conservation-
intern

Please contact Mandy Hedstrom (Program Manager) with any questions at mandy@mtcorps.org.