Description: Gain field experience in the conservation biology of a sensitive species in the Sierra Nevada mountains near Lake Tahoe In cooperation with the Nevada Department of Wildlife, the Great Basin Institute is recruiting a Field Technician to assist in assessing habitat of mountain beavers (Aplodontia rufa) in the east Lake Tahoe Basin and Carson Range, NV. In this region, mountain beavers live in forested riparian habitat and their restricted occurrence in western Nevada is poorly documented. Mountain beavers (the single extant species in the family Aplodontidae) are considered a species of conservation concern because of their restricted range in Nevada and because their population status in the state is unknown. Findings of this study will inform a habitat suitability model and conservation plan for Nevada populations. The Field Technician will work with two assistants to conduct surveys for mountain beaver and their sign, and assess habitat characteristics, including vegetation and thermal features, using standard methods. The field crew may also have opportunities to participate in other ongoing studies of small mammals and birds in the vicinity. The Field Technician should be capable of working long hours in rugged, uneven, forested terrain in which daily temperatures may range widely. Primitive field camping may be required.
Timeline: o 9 May 31 August 2011 o 35-40 hours per week; some weekends may be required Compensation: o $6,250 Living Allowance o $1,415 AmeriCorps Education Award* o Student loan forbearance* o Housing Location: Study sites are located in the east Lake Tahoe Basin and Carson Range, NV. Many recreational opportunities are available in the region, which is considered by many as one of the most scenic in the country. * AmeriCorps Education Award may be used for past, present or future education experiences, including payment of qualified student loans. Qualifications: Technical requirements: o Bachelors degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field; o Previous field experience that included: adhering to field data collection protocols accurately collecting and recording field data o Knowledge of Sierra Nevada flora highly desirable; o Familiarity with or interest in: the ecology and conservation biology of Mountain beavers and other small mammals of the Sierra Nevada forest and/or riparian ecology, and associated natural resource issues o Experience in plant identification and vegetation assessment preferred; o Ability to use a GPS unit and standard methods and equipment for habitat characterization. Additional requirements: o Possess a valid, state-issued drivers license and clean driving record; o Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle on unpaved roads that can be steep and rutted; o Ability to work productively, consistently and cooperatively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals; o Possess strong organizational and leadership skills; o Ability to work in variable weather conditions, traverse steep and uneven terrain, carry upwards of 20 pounds in a backpack, and otherwise maintain good physical condition; o Willingness and ability to work and camp in remote areas; o Familiarity with back-country, low-impact principles preferred; and o Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award, and (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and federal criminal background check. For a complete position description please visit our website at www.TheGreatBasinInstitute.org. How to Apply: Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, their résumé, and a list of three professional references to Bridget Walden, at bwal...@thegreatbasininstitute.org. Please include where you found this position posted. This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, disability, age, gender, political affiliation, religion or any other protective category.
