Seasonal Field Botanist - southeastern Pennsylvania A seasonal field botanist is needed to assist in vegetation monitoring at Fort Indiantown Gap National Guard Training Center, in Annville, southeastern Pennsylvania. The Center is located about 100 miles (two hours’ drive) northwest of Philadelphia. The seasonal field botanist will work on an existing collaboration between the Sewall Lab in the Biology Department at Temple University (http://sites.temple.edu/bjsewall/) and Fort Indiantown Gap, part of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (http://ftig.png.pa.gov/about). Fort Indiantown Gap is the most important training site for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. It is also one of the region’s most ecologically important areas, containing numerous species of rare and threatened plants and wildlife as well as rare and threatened grassland habitats.
The position will assist with monitoring field sites for the Sustainable Range Program. Key duties include relocating permanent plots, establishing new plots, and collecting vegetation data using Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers. Project tasks include identifying plant species, measuring woody vegetation in grasslands, mapping invasive species, documenting disturbance, collecting vegetation and environmental data, and taking digital photographs as part of a long-term ecological monitoring program. Other tasks could include evaluation of the trail network onsite, stream monitoring, and assistance with a variety of wildlife research efforts. Incumbents will be employed by Temple University but the work will be based at Fort Indiantown Gap. Eligibility requires either graduation from or current enrollment in a program leading to a Bachelor’s of Science degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, botany, or related field, knowledge of plant taxonomy, basic computer skills, and ability to operate a four-wheel-drive vehicle. A valid driver’s license is required. Previous vegetation sampling experience and identification skills for Pennsylvania plant species are preferred. Candidates should be in good physical condition, willing to work long hours outdoors in all types of weather and habitat conditions, and able to work cooperatively with others in a team environment. Salary is up to $15.00/hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications, for 40 hrs/week. Employment will be seasonal, from July through the end of August 2018, with possibility of extension through November, 2018. The site is not adjacent to a downtown area or public transportation, so use of a personal vehicle is desirable. To apply, submit a cover letter describing interest in the position and relevant experience, a resume, and contact information for 3 references to Dr. Brent Sewall (bjsew...@temple.edu). Include ‘Seasonal Field Botanist position’ in the subject line. Position will remain open until filled.
