We are still accepting applications for this position, which was earlier posted on Ecolog. We encourage interested applicants to apply quickly, as review of applicants is ongoing.
The Public Lands Institute at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas seeks a research assistant for its Weed Sentry/Restoration Program to conduct vegetation field surveys and research at Lake Mead National Recreation Area and on other federal lands in Clark County, Nevada. The position will be based at National Park Service offices in Boulder City, Nevada. This is a full-time, externally funded position with benefits. The goals of the Weed Sentry/Restoration Program are to 1) map distributions of exotic species in Clark County and occasionally perform proactive control treatments, 2) develop/perform research and effectiveness monitoring projects to advance our understanding of the distribution, ecology, and control of exotic species in southern Nevada as well as how to improve existing survey and treatment methods, 3) provide treatment recommendations for control of exotic species to local resource managers, and 4) document findings of surveys and research by delivering presentations and submitting manuscripts to peer-reviewed scientific journals or other outlets. Work is performed in a wide variety of southern Nevadas plant communities, ranging from the Mojave Desert to high-elevation forests. The position involves a mix of surveys and applied management-oriented research; the successful candidate will be interested in both these aspects of the position. This position is a good fit for candidates interested in restoration ecology, research/monitoring at landscape scales, and translating scientific information in to management prescriptions. Responsibilities: The successful candidate will conduct field surveys and research of exotic plant species and native communities threatened by exotic species on federal lands in Clark County; map exotic plant infestations using GPS and GIS technologies; perform hand pulling or herbicide treatments in some instances; maintain records and databases of all survey data; develop/perform research and monitoring projects, including effectiveness monitoring of existing survey methods, treatment practices, and prediction of species distributions; write or assist in the completion of scientific publications on exotic species ecology and management; prepare or assist in the preparation of scholarly presentations at professional meetings and conferences; and assist in writing reports and funding proposals. Fieldwork will involve traversing uneven terrain in remote areas, frequently in a hot, desert climate. The position requires a flexible schedule and frequent local travel. Overnight travel and camping under primitive conditions may also be required. Minimum Required Qualifications: Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in botany, ecology, biology, natural resources management, or a closely related field, with course work in plant taxonomy, plant identification, plant ecology or weed science. 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. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs and GPS/GIS required. U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a Nevada drivers license required. Ability to swim and ability to walk long distances in uneven terrain in a hot, desert climate are required. The successful candidate must pass a federal security clearance. Preferred Qualifications: Masters degree with a field-based thesis project, four-wheel drive and boating experience, experience in field orientation (i.e., navigation with map and compass), interest or experience in writing scientific manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals or other outlets, and interest or experience in restoration ecology and supporting the application of ecologically based management prescriptions on the ground. Desired Characteristics: Ability to work as a team member; excellent writing, interpersonal, communication, 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 land management agencies; and an affinity for the outdoors. Review of applications is ongoing, and will continue until the position is filled. 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) cover letter, 2) current and complete resume, and 3) the name, address, telephone, and e-mail address of 3 professional references. In the cover letter, which should be no more than one single-spaced page, applicants should summarize 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 S. 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 UNLVs on-line applicant portal, contact Jen Feldmann at (702) 895-3886 or email [EMAIL PROTECTED] For more information, see the UNLV website (http://www.unlv.edu), the Public Lands Institute website (http://publiclands/unlv.edu), or Dr. Abellas website (http://faculty.unlv.edu/abellas2/). UNLV is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to achieving excellence through diversity.
