The Public Lands Institute at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas seeks research assistants (one or more) to conduct vegetation surveys and research at Lake Mead National Recreation Area (LAME) and other federal lands within Clark County, Nevada. These are full-time, externally funded positions with benefits. The goals of the Weed Sentry Program are to 1) map distributions of exotic species within Clark County, 2) perform proactive containment management of targeted exotic species populations, and 3) perform research and provide treatment recommendations for control of mapped populations to local resource managers. Work is performed in a wide variety of southern Nevada's plant communities, ranging from the Mojave Desert to high-elevation forests.
Responsibilities: The successful candidate(s) will conduct surveys for non-native plant species that are invasive within Clark County; map exotic plant locations using GPS and GIS technologies; conduct fieldwork using pesticides and power and hand tools to kill or remove non-native plant species; maintain records and databases of all survey and control data; train and coordinate interns; perform ecological restoration research; and assist in writing reports and funding proposals. Fieldwork may require significant physical exertion in remote areas, frequently in a hot, desert climate. The position will require a flexible schedule and extensive in-state travel. Overnight travel and camping under primitive conditions may also be required. In addition to the duties outlined above, the research assistant will have opportunities to prepare papers or posters for presentation at professional meetings or for publication, either separately or in conjunction with a research team. The successful candidate must pass a federal security clearance. Minimum Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in botany, ecology, biology, or closely related field, with course work in plant taxonomy, plant identification, plant ecology or weed science preferred. A minimum of one year comparable experience in related fieldwork and demonstrated knowledge of plant taxonomy and plant identification is required. Working knowledge of major native and exotic species of the southwestern United States may be substituted for plant taxonomy. U.S. citizenship and valid driver's license required. Ability to swim and ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain in a hot, desert climate are required. Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree in a related field, four-wheel drive and boating experience, working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, working knowledge of GPS and GIS technologies, and experience in field orientation (i.e., navigation with map and compass). Desired Characteristics: Ability to work as a team member; excellent writing, interpersonal, and organizational skills; ability to build and sustain collaborative relationships among diverse groups of people; ability to analyze situations and data trends and apply to job responsibilities; interest in scholarly activity and publications; familiarity with federal land management agencies; familiarity with contracted research and deliverables; an affinity for the outdoors. Review of applications will continue until suitable candidates are found and the position is closed. The position is contingent upon external funding and must be renewed annually. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Applications: Application materials must include a 1) current and complete resume, 2) cover letter, and 3) the name, address, telephone, and e-mail address of 3 professional references. In the cover letter, applicants should fully describe qualifications and experience as they relate to this position, since the initial review will serve to evaluate applicants based on documented, relevant qualifications and work experience. Materials should be addressed to Dr. Scott R. Abella, Search Committee Chair, Public Lands Institute, 4505 Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89154-2040, and are to be submitted via on-line application only at https://hrsearch.unlv.edu. For assistance with UNLV's on-line applicant portal, contact Jen Feldmann at (702) 895-3886 or email [EMAIL PROTECTED] For more information, see the UNLV website at: http://www.unlv.edu, the Public Lands Institute website at http://publiclands/unlv.edu, or http://faculty.unlv.edu/abellas2/. UNLV is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to achieving excellence through diversity.