Archbold Biological Station has an immediate opening for a research assistant to support ecological monitoring, wetland restoration, experimental research, and land management on its >8,800 acres of conservation land on the southern Lake Wales Ridge, Florida. We are seeking a broadly trained ecologist with excellent field and organizational skills to contribute to research and restoration efforts on the Archbold Reserve (http://www.archbold-reserve.org/), where we are restoring former grazing lands (now in Wetlands Reserve Program easements) and pioneering techniques for restoring endemic cutthroat grass and other native wetland vegetation.
This is a full-time, term position for 14 months, preferably starting by 2 May 2016, with the possibility of extension dependent on funding. The successful candidate will spend approximately 85% of his/her time supporting the Restoration Ecology program, including: sampling vegetation and monitoring water levels in freshwater wetlands and seepage slopes; coordinating USDA-funded wetland restoration projects; measuring cutthroat grass and other vegetation responses to grazing and hydrological restoration; collecting data on severity of feral hog rooting in wetlands; collecting soil and water samples for nutrient analysis; entering and managing data; occasionally supervising volunteers and research interns; and assisting with statistical analyses and presentation of research results. The other 15% will be devoted to Land Management (primarily on the Reserve), including mapping and treating exotic plants and assisting with prescribed fires. Desired qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in biology, environmental science, or a related field - At least 1 year of relevant work experience - Experience with vegetation monitoring and plant taxonomy - Familiarity with wetland restoration techniques - Highly organized and able to work independently - Meticulous attention to data quality - Ability to safely operate 4WD vehicles in off-road conditions - High tolerance for heat, humidity and other discomforts associated with working outdoors in a subtropical climate - Applicants must have U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. Preference will be given to candidates with a Master's degree, demonstrated experience carrying out restoration projects, and familiarity with multivariate statistical analyses (PC-ORD) and database software (Microsoft Access). Salary range is $24,000 - $29,000 per year dependent on qualifications, plus full benefits. To apply, email the following (preferably as one attachment in PDF format) to Dr. Betsie Rothermel at [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>: 1) Cover letter describing your qualifications and availability with respect to the desired start date 2) Current resumé or CV, including GPA and a list of relevant coursework 3) Contact information for three references Please include 'RA position' in the subject line of your email. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. http://www.archbold-station.org/ Archbold is an Equal Opportunity Employer
