We are hiring three field technicians to work on the Sagebrush Steppe Treatment Evaluation Project (SageSTEP) investigating the long-term ecological impacts of fuel reduction treatments in the intermountain West sagebrush steppe and western juniper woodlands (https://sagestep.org/). This project has been running for 15 years with multiple research and management partners. Technicians will be part of a four-person team working and camping in the field in remote areas. Crews will collect ecological data using established protocols. This is a great opportunity to learn about natural resource issues and land management in collaboration with universities, state, and federal agencies.
JOB DUTIES:
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
JOB DUTIES:
- Identifying grasses, forbs, and shrubs to species (up to 250 different species).
- Monitoring native grasses, forbs, and shrub volume and density.
- Performing vegetation cover and fuel load sampling protocols.
- Operating 4-wheel drive vehicles on difficult roads.
- Recording and entering data on tablets in the field.
- Processing samples and entering data in the laboratory.
- Interacting with scientists and land managers from state and federal agencies and universities.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Field work at remote sites within Nevada, Idaho, and Utah.
- Lab/computer work in Reno, NV.
- Hiking in possibly extreme weather, including rain, snow, wind, and high temperatures.
- Fieldwork typically involves 5-9 consecutive days with workdays up to 12 hours/day.
- Extensive travel and camping at remote sites with no facilities.
- Carrying loads up to 30 lbs.
- Adherence to safety protocols.
- A valid driver’s license is required.
- Education: Pursuing a BS degree in biology, ecology, natural resources, or related field.
- Experience: Data collection in a field setting.
- Good organization and communication skills.
- Ability to work well with others in group settings.
- Ability to perform physical labor and work outside.
- Experience with dichotomous keys and plant identification is highly desired.
- $17-19 depending on experience.
- Employment duration: Approximately May-August 2024.
- Please send a resume, unofficial transcript, a letter detailing your skills, experience, and/or interest, as well as contact information for three references to Dr. Beth Newingham at [email protected].
- The position is based out of the USDA Agricultural Research Service office on the University of Nevada Reno campus.
- Review of applications will continue until the positions are filled with preference before April 1, 2024.