Opportunities

Student contractor position – species distribution modeling

Student Services Contract – Biological Science Technician

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> Agency

> United States Department of the Interior

> U.S. Geological Survey

>

> Duty Station Location

> Fort Collins Science Center

> 2150 Centre Ave Bldg C

> Fort Collins, CO 80526

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> Contract Dates Approx. 1 July 2019 through 30 June 2021

>

> Submit resume and attachments in a single pdf to jarnevichc@usgs.gov by 28 May 2019

>

> Introduction

> The Invasive Species Branch of the USGS Fort Collins Science Center includes research focused on invasive species distributions and impacts, including methodological research, modeling exotic species distribution and abundance, and developing communication and delivery tools.

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> Types of Service Required

> The student contractor(s) shall assist on projects related to modeling the distribution and abundance of exotic species, mostly focusing on plants. Projects involve tasks including selection, management, and information extraction from environmental predictor layers describing land use and land cover, climate, and other factors. Additional tasks include model fitting and performance assessment. The work schedule will vary from part-time to 40 hours per week. Flexible scheduling is possible.

>

> Required Expertise/Skills

> Completion of a Bachelor’s degree with one or more years of graduate education in a related field is required (biological sciences, natural resources, statistics, or computer science). Computer work is required. Candidate shall have experience with using Geographical Information Systems for managing and summarizing spatial data, including programming skills. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen.  Student contractors must either be students (enrolled in a degree program) or within one year post-graduation.

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> Desired (but not required): Expertise programming in R, including strong data management, analysis, and visualization skills. Expertise extracting information from large spatiotemporal datasets using repeatable code. Familiarity with species distribution modeling. ÂÂ

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> Description of Working Conditions

> Work will be performed at the Fort Collins Science Center in an office.

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> Compensation

> Compensation is commensurate with the level of education and experience and is based on federal pricing tables for student contractor services.

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> Application Requirements

> Resume should include: legal name, mailing address, telephone number, email address, education – including description of relevant classes, work or volunteer experience in related field. Other documentation: Transcript listing courses taken and the student’s overall GPA. Transcript does not have to be the official version. Student must be enrolled at least part-time in school or have graduated within the last 12 months.

>

> Special Terms

> For all legal purposes, student is regarded as an independent contractor. Payments for services are reportable and taxable as earned income. No Federal, State, or Local income taxes will be deducted. No social security or Medicare taxes will be deducted. Student is responsible for payment of all taxes as a result of income received under this order.  The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) will report the total amount paid under this order to the Internal Revenue Service on a Standard form 1099. The student is not considered an employee and will not receive a W-2 form. For payment, student must have a checking or savings account at a financial institution that will accept direct deposits.

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> Student will be required to complete computer security awareness training and comply with the USGS Computer and Network Security Handbook.

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> The USGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Selection for this position will be based solely on merit, fitness, and qualifications without regard to race, sex, color, religion, age, marital status, national origin, non-disqualifying handicap conditions, sexual orientation, or any other non-merit factors. This agency provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities.

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> Contact Information

> The work will be overseen by Catherine Jarnevich. For questions, contact Catherine Jarnevich at jarnevichc@usgs.gov or 970-226-9439.

>

Botany field positions outreach

Nature’s Capital, LLC is a small business located in Boise, Idaho. Our mission is to assist clients throughout the Pacific Northwest in the maintenance and enhancement of the natural capital assets found in biological and physical resources. We provide scientifically sound, high quality ecological inventory and assessment information and management recommendations founded in knowledge of ecosystem processes and functions. We are seeking to fill fulltime temporary botany field positions. Positions may be based in locations other than Boise.

Employees in field botany positions will collect and summarize data on plant species populations and habitats and the ecology of forest, shrubland, or grassland vegetation. Work will include, for example, conducting ecological field inventories, assessing vegetation condition and quality, and measuring plant population attributes. Duties include making observations and recording data on plant species composition, stand structure and environmental factors influencing the distribution of plant communities or species. Duties may include recording, summarizing and proofreading technical information; use of word processing, spreadsheet, database or GIS software; and interpreting spatial imagery or other technical map products. The position will require experience in back country travel; use of basic tools such as a field compass, topographic map, clinometer, altimeter and global positioning systems; and operation of motor vehicles on unimproved roadways. Duties may also include assisting with forest inventory or wildlife survey projects.

Work activities require ability to walk for several hours (carrying a backpack with field and personal equipment) in rugged terrain and work in inclement weather conditions. Work schedules may require occasional to frequent overnight travel and primitive camping in remote locations. Subsidized housing may be provide for projects based in locations other than Boise.

Minimum Qualifications: Applicants will be considered for Botanist or Botany Technician positions based on combined education or experience summarized as follows:

Position

Education

Experience

Botany Technician

Bachelor’s degree in botany, plant ecology, or related field

A combination of coursework leading to a bachelor’s degree and field experience

Botanist

One year of coursework leading to a graduate degree in botany, plant ecology, or related field

Several seasons of field experience or a combination of field experience and coursework leading to a graduate degree

Previous work experience should demonstrate knowledge of a regional flora and ability to complete tasks outlined in the position description (for example: experience identifying plants using a taxonomical key, special status species survey protocols, determining habitat type, sampling vegetation using standard plant ecology methods, wetland delineation, noxious weed survey protocol, or habitat and population monitoring methods). Back country experience must be documented through work history or recreational activities such as hiking, skiing, or mountaineering. Current first aid certification is required (current Wilderness First Responder certification is preferred).

To apply for a field botany position, please send a current resume as an email attachment to srust@naturescap.com. Include the job title in the subject line. Please provide contact information for individuals with knowledge of your experience and capabilities. Applicants for the positions should make contact as soon as possible. Hiring decisions will be ongoing as applications are received.

Nature’s Capital, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Salary and benefits are competitive.

Contact:

Steven K. Rust

Nature’s Capital, LLC

PO Box 8662

Boise, ID 83707

https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.naturescap.com&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886090071&sdata=5BEjZQ%2B8q%2FMWGgsaa1MMppdbHlUKeZTTxLIcns46DnY%3D&reserved=0

Wildlife biology positions outreach

Nature’s Capital, LLC is a small business located in Boise, Idaho. Our mission is to assist clients throughout the Pacific Northwest in the maintenance and enhancement of natural capital assets found in biological and physical resources. We provide scientifically sound, high quality ecological inventory and assessment information and management recommendations founded in knowledge of ecosystem processes and functions. We are seeking to fill fulltime temporary positions in wildlife biology. Positions may be based in locations other than Boise.

Employees in wildlife biology positions will collect and summarize data on wildlife species populations and their habitats. Work activities will include, for example, broadcast surveys for nocturnal owls, surveys and assessments of habitat for management indicator species, breeding bird point counts, and surveys for terrestrial reptiles and mollusks. Duties may include recording, summarizing, and proofreading technical information; use of word processing, spreadsheet, database, or GIS software; or interpreting spatial imagery or other technical map products. The position will require demonstrated experience in back country travel; experience in use of basic tools such as a field compass, topographic maps, clinometer, altimeter, and global positioning systems; and operation of motor vehicles on unimproved roadways. Duties may also include assisting with forest inventory or botanical survey projects.

Work activities require ability to walk for several hours (carrying a backpack with field and personal equipment) in rugged terrain and work in inclement weather conditions. Work schedules may require occasional to frequent overnight travel and primitive camping in remote locations. Subsidized housing may be provide for projects based in locations other than Boise.

Minimum Qualifications: Applicants will be considered for Wildlife Biologist or Wildlife Technician positions based on combined education or experience summarized as follows:

Position

Education

Experience

Wildlife Technician

Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, zoology, or related field

A combination of coursework leading to a bachelor’s degree and field experience

Wildlife Biologist

One year of coursework leading to a graduate degree in wildlife biology, zoology, or related field

Several seasons of field experience or a combination of field experience and coursework leading to a graduate degree

Previous work experience should demonstrate knowledge of a regional fauna and ability to complete tasks outlined in the position description (for example, experience applying a broadcast survey protocol, breeding bird point count protocol, telemetry studies, or conducting terrestrial mollusk surveys). Back country experience must be documented either through work history or recreational activities such as hiking, skiing or mountaineering. Current certification in standard first aid is required (more advanced certification, for example, Wilderness First Responder, is preferred). Applicants must have normal hearing and vision.

To apply for a wildlife biology position, please send a current resume as an email attachment to srust@naturescap.com. Include the job title in the subject line. Please provide contact information for individuals with knowledge of your experience and capabilities. Candidates for the position should make contact as soon as possible. Hiring decisions will begin immediately. Nature’s Capital, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Salary and benefits are competitive.

Contact:

Steven K. Rust

Nature’s Capital, LLC

PO Box 8662

Boise, ID 83707

https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.naturescap.com&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886090071&sdata=5BEjZQ%2B8q%2FMWGgsaa1MMppdbHlUKeZTTxLIcns46DnY%3D&reserved=0

Riparian Vegetation Technician Needed in OR

Crews will interact with local BLM staff, national level staff at the

National Aquatic Monitoring Center, and GBI senior monitoring staff. Data

collection involves measuring a variety of attributes including water

chemistry and instream habitat, collecting aquatic macroinvertebrates, and

conducting ocular estimates in the riparian zone. Additional data

collection for MIM sites will involve classifying streamside vegetation and

identifying riparian vegetation to species and sub-species. Successful

applicants will be required to work and camp in the field. Applicants

should be prepared to encounter strenuous working conditions.

Field work and duties may include:

• Navigating off-trail to sampling sites;

• Establishing sampling plots and transects (within the stream channel and

streamside riparian area);

• Entering data into and managing the Stream and River Assessment Hub

(SARAH) Ipad application (Aquatic Data Management Protocol); and

• Identifying plants to species using dichotomous keys.

• Collecting riparian vegetation data, including species inventory

(greenline composition, cover and constancy, stubble height, wood), stream

bank stability, age and height classes of woody species, canopy cover, etc.

and making qualitative ecological assessments

Additional duties include:

• Maintaining safety awareness and practices;

• Regular communication with GBI support staff and agency staff;

• Participation in GBI and agency trainings

Compensation:

• $15/hr + $150 non-taxed biweekly housing stipend

• $15 nightly camping per diem

• Paid holidays and personal leave

• Paid preventative health insurance (medical, dental and vision)

To learn more and apply please follow the link below:

https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fcrcareers.thegreatbasininstitute.org%2Fcareers%2Fcareers.aspx%3Frf%3DECOLOG%26req%3D2019-AIM-002&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886090071&sdata=qYcP%2BjNjFUIohN78f87dqYjZd9GBM%2Bxvoa%2FrnAPUMuU%3D&reserved=0

Sage Bates

Recruitment and Compliance Coordinator

Great Basin Institute

16750 Mt. Rose Highway

Reno, NV 89511-8774

775-674-5489 (office)

The Great Basin Institute advances environmental research, education, and

service throughout the west. The institute promotes applied research and

ecological literacy through community engagement and agency partnerships to

support national parks, forests, open spaces and public lands.

PhD Assistantship – Biodiversity and eDNA, University of Wyoming

Graduate Assistantship available to work with  Melanie Murphy (Department of Ecosystem Science and Management/Program in Ecology)  at University of Wyoming in collaboration The Nature Conservancy (Craig Leisher, Tim Boucher and Jeffrey Evans).

The PhD student will develop new methods for using environmental DNA (eDNA) for holistic biodiversity assessment.  Study areas include Northern Rocky Mountains, Gabon and potentially Baja Sur, Mexico.  Using paired eDNA and bioacoustics sampling, we will ask the questions including: 1) Are relatively intact areas more biodiverse than fragmented landscapes? and 2) is presence of rare species of conservation concern a reliable index of biodiversity?

Prospective students with a background in ecology, wildlife, and/or population genetics are encouraged to apply.  Evidence of robust analytical skills, ability to work independently under challenging field conditions, strong work ethic, quality scientific writing, passion for scientific inquiry, and aptitude for collaborative research are expected.  Previous experience in bioinformatics, population genetics laboratory skills (particularly using low quality/low quantity DNA), and spatial analysis are desirable but not required.  Data collection efforts will require working in remote field conditions, international travel, working in rivers/wetlands and driving a 4WD vehicle.  To apply, please send a statement of interest, complete CV, unofficial transcripts, unofficial GRE scores, and contact information for three professional references as a single PDF file (LastName_Biodiversity.pdf) tomelanie.murphy@uwyo.edu.   Application deadline is June 4, 2019, although review of applicants is currently on-going. First-received applicants will have priority.  Start date is late August 2019 (start of fall semester).

Area and Institution: University of Wyoming (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.uwyo.edu&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886080073&sdata=dkBwV1o5U6kvpv19eLFuoI9Meibbd5kjrWJmHgjhHKc%3D&reserved=0) is ideally located in Laramie, Wyoming with easy access to varied field sites and outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition, the campus is only 1 hour from Fort Collins and ~2 hours from an international airport (Denver, CO).  Applicants are encouraged to investigate the Program in Ecology (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.uwyo.edu%2Fpie&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886080073&sdata=tD4zdMhZ79oavbD%2BGbYQrY%2FYrvKktpA0%2Budh4V6cBfQ%3D&reserved=0), an integrated, interdepartmental PhD program in ecological science.

Support for this graduate position may be through either a Women in Graduate Education Graduate or Underrepresented Domestic Minority Assistantship.  The University of Wyoming Women in Graduate Education Graduate Assistantships (WGE) are competitive awards intended to increase access and opportunities for U.S. domestic women in graduate degree programs where they are underrepresented. The WGE awards are funded through a partnership of the Office of Graduate Education and the faculty mentor(s) of the prospective student.  The University of Wyoming Under-represented Domestic Minority (URDM) assistantships are intended to increase access and opportunities to graduate education for U.S. students from under-represented/ under-served communities and to increase student diversity in our graduate degree programs on a competitive basis. Statement of interest should address if applicant would qualify for URDM.  The URDM awards are funded through a partnership of the Office of Academic Affairs and the faculty mentor(s) of the prospective student. The University of Wyoming is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law and University policy. Please see https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.uwyo.edu%2Fdiversity%2Ffairness&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886090071&sdata=Mbc2B6jrMEQW5yJ%2BzWVQUg7G7frltKA8gUUO7wwGjeo%3D&reserved=0

Amphibian ecology/evolution Lab Manager/Tech position

The Richards-Zawacki Lab (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rzlab.pitt.edu%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886080073&sdata=1LKz3%2Bje03uUuOYXBs68VikR7nKf8JtlLlSi5GxONKA%3D&reserved=0) in the University of Pittsburgh Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences is seeking a Laboratory Technician/Manager that will manage the maintenance of laboratory equipment, purchase supplies, and supervise animal (amphibian) care and undergraduate lab assistants. Depending upon experience, the incumbent may also be responsible for generating and analyzing molecular data for ongoing projects on the topics of amphibian ecology, evolution, and conservation, and providing technical assistance to other personnel involved in these projects who are using similar techniques.

Management experience and excellent communications skills, as well as experience with basic molecular and microbiology techniques, are preferred. The incumbent will train new personnel who are recruited to the project and supervise the efforts of undergraduates. This includes regular meetings with personnel and supervision of notebook keeping. The incumbent will report to the primary investigator and work in collaboration with the primary investigator to manage laboratory activities.

The Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences is committed to building a culturally diverse staff.

Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in support of a diverse community.

Please see the full position posting for more information and to submit an application:

https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcfopitt.taleo.net%2Fcareersection%2Fpitt_staff_external%2Fjobdetail.ftl%3Fjob%3D19004271%26tz%3DGMT-04%253A00%26tzname%3DAmerica%252FNew_York&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C70388b0ad19846e4eefb08d6e029313c%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636942864886080073&sdata=fmjzUextaggAbvIBtWIXx5FD3Fp1f%2BDHts%2FS%2BdFKUZs%3D&reserved=0

For questions about the position, please contact Corinne Richards-Zawacki (clz17@pitt.edu)

TECHNICIAN in FRESHWATER ECOLOGY/LIMNOLOGY

“The Jefferson Project” is hiring a technician to conduct research in freshwater ecology and limnology. Research topics include invasive species, salinization, eutrophication, algal blooms, and global warming. The technician will assist in lake and stream surveys to assess water quality and biota, including surveys of fish, macro-invertebrates, zooplankton, macrophytes, and algae. The position will also involve working with a highly advanced “smart-sensor” network.

The Jefferson Project is an unprecedented research endeavor devised to study freshwater ecosystems by using “smart-sensor” technologies, leading-edge experiments, and advanced coupled computer models of the weather, runoff, lake circulation, and food webs.  It is a collaboration between Rensselaer, IBM, and the FUND for Lake George. The Jefferson Project is serving as a global model for understanding and protecting freshwater ecosystems.

Our technicians collaborate with Rensselaer researchers, including experts in Ecology, Evolution, Limnology, Engineering, Big Data, Computer Science, Cognitive Science (AI), and the Arts. They also collaborate with researchers from the FUND for Lake George and IBM, including experts in Meteorology, Hydrology, Cyber-infrastructure, and Data Visualization. Collectively, The Jefferson Project team of researchers focuses on moving from science to solutions, as we build the future of freshwater protection.

Applicants should send (in pdf format) a cover letter, CV, and a list of 3 references to Rick Relyea (relyer@rpi.edu). Applications will be reviewed as they arrive. The desired start date is July 2019.

Northern Colorado Plant Ecology and/or Population Genetics MS and PhD positions

We seek two highly motivated student looking to pursue a MS or PhD degree with a focus on plant ecology (Dr. Scott Franklin) and/or population genetics (Dr. Mit McGlaughlin). Current studies include restoration of sagebrush, examining both the genetics and ecology, conservation genetics of rare species, ecology of clonal plants (e.g., aspen), disturbance ecology, and plant classification. To find out more about our current and past research, visit our lab web pages (Dr. Franklin =https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.unco.edu%2Fnhs%2Fbiology%2Fabout-us%2Ffranklin-scott%2Flab%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cbdd3fed9a47d4008577d08d6ddcd0bea%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636940270096904720&sdata=kPT9SNyxMXcNP51O6dwI1OFKxgq1MB%2Fz5u03Ib%2FMV0g%3D&reserved=0; Dr. McGlaughlin = https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.unco.edu%2Fnhs%2Fbiology%2Fabout-us%2Fmcglaughlin-mitchell%2Flab-home.aspx&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cbdd3fed9a47d4008577d08d6ddcd0bea%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636940270096904720&sdata=TnEmAu422x55lsw6V5KXZXIobFin4%2B4sqSbMtEbu0ik%3D&reserved=0).

The University of Northern Colorado was founded in 1889 and tucked between the Rocky Mountains and Colorado’s stunning high plains, UNC is a public doctoral research university committed to the success of its ~12,862 students, with more than 100 undergraduate programs and 120 graduate programs. The university’s just-right size, expert faculty, and tradition of research and hands-on learning gives students exceptional opportunities and a personalized education. If you are interested, contact either Dr. Franklin (scott.franklin@unco.edu) or Dr. McGlaughlin (Mitchell.McGlaughlin@unco.edu).

‘Ecological Monitoring Technician’ Position Available

Gila Watershed Partnership of Arizona (GWP) is looking for a new Ecological Monitoring Technician. This role provides field and project administration support for GWP restoration staff. This position is responsible for management of habitat monitoring activities and some coordination of seasonal crews under the direction of the Habitat Restoration Manager.

Duties & Responsibilities:

 Assist Habitat Restoration Manager with planning and implementation of

restoration projects

 Conduct vegetation monitoring surveys and additional restoration monitoring

activities on regular basis

 Conduct removal of invasive plant species by chemical and mechanical means

 Conduct restoration planting and seeding

 Maintain and monitor piezometers to determine depth to groundwater

 Conduct photo point data collection

 Use GIS, GPS, and tablets to maintain records

 Assist with water quality monitoring

 Assist in managing seasonal youth corps projects

 Maintain field supply inventory

 Assist in plant propagation and other native plant nursery work when needed

 Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

 Associates Degree in Biology, Natural Resources, or related field is required;

enrolled in or completed a Bachelor’s Degree is preferable; or equivalent

experience

 Experience with scientific data collection in a field setting

 Strong interpersonal and communication skills and an ability to interact with a

wide variety of stakeholders are required

 General computer skills are required, including competence with Microsoft

Office and the Google Suite

 Willingness to work in a variety of conditions, including running water, high heat,

uneven ground, and dense vegetation

 Willingness to coordinate and supervise seasonal employees in a dynamic field

situation

 Ability to manage time effectively and communicate issues promptly

 A valid state driver’s license is required

 Ability to pass a basic security clearance is required

 GPS, GIS, and database management skills are highly desirable

 One to two years of natural resources field experience is preferable

 Ability to operate independently under challenging situations is highly desirable

 Experience driving trailers and using 4-wheel drive is highly desirable

Work Environment:

 Moderate to high physical effort

 Willing to work occasional weekends and holidays as needed

 Assignments involve substantial outdoor work and seasonally extreme

temperatures

 Safe use of hand tools, herbicide application equipment, power tools, and

occasional heavy machinery

Compensation:

$12-$14/hour, depending on experience, plus holiday, vacation, and sick time. Health

insurance is available. This position offers a broad variety of different experiences with a

fun, dynamic team.

Location:

The Gila Watershed Partnership offices are located in Safford, Arizona, a small, friendly

city on the edge of the Sonoran Desert and nestled in the shadow of Mount Graham.

Safford and the Gila Valley offer numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, natural hot

springs, vibrant local festivals, and a reasonable cost of living.

To apply, please send cover letter, resume, and three references in a single PDF to

Bethany Drahota, Habitat Restoration Manager, at bethany@gwpaz.org by May 24,

2019.

1 FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANT NEEDED FOR FOREST POLLINATOR GENETICS PROJECTS

FIELD RESEARCH ASSISTANT NEEDED FOR FOREST POLLINATOR GENETICS PROJECTS led by Dr. Jim Rivers (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fpeople.forestry.oregonstate.edu%2Fjim-rivers%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7Cb5bcd9f188044f0fb11b08d6daa85c48%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636936813992379810&sdata=ARPvkhkncxGzD9jgc3zTjS2X3ILicJYjyFBUjLkRz1s%3D&reserved=0), Dr. Sara Galbraith (Post-doctoral researcher), and Rachel Zitomer (MSc. Candidate) in the College of Forestry at Oregon State University.

The objective of this research is to assess how behavior, population dynamics, and health of two native bee species are affected by management activities and stand/landscape characteristics in managed forests using cutting-edge genetic techniques, including DNA capture-recapture and DNA metabarcoding. Research assistants will work with both commercially reared and wild bee species throughout the season. Duties will consist of:

* collecting wild pollinators using a variety of techniques (netting, traps, non-lethal tissue samples)

* quantifying floral resources

* measuring plant community, environmental, and management-related variables

* monitoring solitary bees in artificial nests

* extracting pollen samples from nests and specimens

* conducting pollination experiments

* processing specimens in the lab

* entering data

Field work will take place in the rugged and scenic Coast Range of western Oregon and will involve physically demanding work in challenging conditions (heat, cold, rain, sun, steep slopes, loose rock, logging slash, stinging insects, hazardous plants), working long days (up to 12 hours), including some weekends, driving on logging roads, and navigating through difficult forest terrain.

Position will run approximately June 3-September 1, 2019; there is potential for some flexibility on start and end dates. Pay rate is $500-550/week for research assistants. Project-related transportation is provided.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a B.S. degree in entomology, animal ecology, botany, or a related field and at least 2 years of field experience (2 season-long field positions=2 years of experience). Preference will be given to candidates who are proficient with insect collection and identification, have previous experience with ecological field work, especially in challenging terrain, and/or are familiar with Oregon flora. Successful applicants will:

* be self-motivated, with a strong work ethic

* be able to carry heavy gear (30+ lbs) on steep slopes

* be able to harmoniously work and problem-solve as part of a team

* have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record

* be able to maintain a positive disposition under challenging field conditions

* have a proven track record working safely, efficiently, and cooperative manner in a team setting

To apply: Applicants should create a single PDF containing (1) a cover letter addressing the candidate’s qualifications as they relate to the specific duties described in the position description; (2) a full-length CV or resume; and (3) the names and contact information (email, telephone) of three references. This document should be emailed to Rachel Zitomer at oregonbeecrew[at]gmail[dot]com with “Pollinator Genetics Crew 2019” in the subject line. We will review applications as they are received and earlier applicants may receive more consideration.