Several positions available for field technicians to conduct research on effects of fuel treatments and wildfire on wildlife community structure in and around South Lake Tahoe, CA. Positions available for small mammals, birds, and vegetation sampling (see below for descriptions of each). Field vehicles are provided and shared housing is available for $300/mo. These positions require long days in the field and flexible schedules, so a sense of humor, positive attitude, patience, and self-motivation are essential. Successful applicants will have demonstrable academic and/or field experience, work well independently and with others, communicate effectively in a variety of situations, demonstrate the willingness and ability to live in shared housing, enjoy working outdoors, and be conscientious about safety. Ability to accurately collect data with attention to detail is also required. Salary $10-16, depending on experience. Small mammal positions- Approx. June 1- August 31. Potential earlier start date for one member to conduct truffle surveys and assist with prep for field season. Duties include hiking traps and other field equipment to field sites off-trail for long distances, capture and handling of small mammals for population estimation (mark-recapture), and genetic sampling, maintenance of traps and other equipment, driving on steep and rugged dirt roads, and data entry with Access. Preference will be given to applicants with experience capturing and handling small mammals.
Avian positions- May 3- July 30. One or two technicians needed to perform avian point counts, nest searching, and habitat assessments. Nest searching will focus on woodpeckers and other cavity nesters. Applicant must have prior birding experience and ability to identify Western forest birds by sight and sound. Previous point count experience is required and preference will be given to applicants with experience with nest searching or habitat assessment/ vegetation sampling. Vegetation sampling positions- mid-May- August 31. Responsibilities include identifying herbaceous and woody plants, conducting field data collection, and ensuring quality data acquisition. Truffle surveys will also be conducted early in the season. Candidates must have at least one field season of experience and knowledge of the taxonomic identification of plant species in montane coniferous ecosystems in the Sierra Nevada. To apply: Please specify the position you are applying for by including the position as the subject of your email. Include cover letter, resume, and references. For vegetation or small mammal positions: Courtney Owens US Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research Station 2480 Carson Rd. Placerville, CA 95667 tahoewildl...@gmail.com For avian positions: Gina Tarbill US Forest Service Pacific Southwest Research Station 2480 Carson Rd. Placerville, CA 95667 gtarb...@gmail.com
