Position Title: Biological Field Technician Dept./Agency: DOI, U.S. Geological Survey, Forest & Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center
Series/Grade: GG-0404-04; full-time, temporary position ($13.41/hr, plus $18/day field per diem) Length of Appointment: approximately 6/05/11 through 8/27/11 (end-date flexible). Description: A biological field technician is needed to assist with dendrochronological sampling in aspen woodlands in the mountains of northern Nevada (Jarbidge, Ruby, and Santa Rosa Mountains), as a part of a project to assess aspen dynamics in relation to aspen-associated bird communities. Sampling in these scenic mountain woodlands is a great way to spend the summer! The work will consist of collecting tree cores for aspen age data using an increment borer and other dendrochronology equipment, as well as some general vegetation sampling. Work will include driving 4-wheel drive vehicles, hiking over rugged terrain, and navigating in a remote mountainous landscape with GPS units and GIS software. Electronic entry of field data using PCs and PDAs will be required. Field conditions involve exposure to wind, dust, extreme heat and cold, and hiking at high elevations (5,000 10,00 feet). The work requires camping at remote mountain sites for eight 10-hour days, followed by 6-day breaks. Campers will have periodic access to a base camp with either a trailer or a wall tent, but overnight camping in a personal sleep tent will usually be necessary. Qualifications: Applicants need at least 6 months of field experience or 1 year of college with courses related to the work of the position to be filled; applicants without at least 3 months experience sampling plant communities WILL NOT be considered. We are particularly interested in applicants with a strong work ethic, proven ability to live and work in remote areas under rugged conditions, and experience in vegetation sampling. How to Apply: For information about the work, please contact Dr. Douglas Shinneman, 208-426-5206, [email protected]. Send application materials by email or mail to Michelle Schatz ([email protected]), USGS-Biological Resources Division, Forest & Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 777 NW 9th St., Suite 400, Corvallis, OR 97330. Include the following in your application: a) reference to Job# SRFS-11-006; b) letter of interest indicating availability for the field season; c) resume, including professional experience, especially evidence that you meet the qualifications (see above); d) when listing professional experience, be sure to indicate starting and ending dates, and hours worked per week, to verify that you meet the qualifications; e) copies of academic transcripts, unofficial transcripts are acceptable; f) list of 3 references and their contact information; g) indicate preferred duty station (Elko, NV or Winnemucca, NV, or indicate that either is acceptable). Applications must be received by February 04, 2011.
