Title: Ecology and Botany Field Technicians – Research Associate I
Number of Positions: 4-6
Work Location: Pensacola, FL; Biloxi, MS
Pay Rate: $13-18/hour depending on experience and qualifications; 
housing provided
Duration: ~2 months (approx. Late May through July)

Summary of Position
Colorado Natural Heritage Program seeks 4-6 summer field technicians to 
use their knowledge of botany and ecology to conduct an accuracy 
assessment of a vegetation map at Gulf Islands National Seashore along 
the gulf coast of Florida and Mississippi. This work entails traveling 
to remote locations and identifying plant communities based on dominant 
species using the US National Vegetation Classification system 
(www.usnvc.org). Botanical skills are necessary. Travel to field sites 
include a combination of daytrips, short camping trips, and occasional 
boat trips to barrier islands. 
This position provides an excellent opportunity for botanists/ecologists 
eager to explore a variety of different ecosystems and learn to use the 
US National Vegetation Classification standard. Gulf Islands National 
Seashore encompass a variety of unique ecosystems including dune 
complexes, sandy pine ridges, and salt marshes. These communities 
provide habitats for a wide variety of rare animals and plants including 
sea turtles, dolphins, pitcher plants, and many more. After this summer, 
field technicians will have a deep understanding of coastal woodlands 
and forests, salt marshes, and the US National Vegetation Classification 
standard.
Duties
1.      Work with a partner to navigate to plot locations and determine 
plant community. Requires ability to reliably identify plants and plant 
communities of the project area, identify dominant species and community 
structure, and document presence of exotic or rare species.
2.      Reliably locate field plots, safely and efficiently access 
sites, complete field forms, operate and maintain field equipment, and 
effectively manage collected data.
3.      Enter and maintain data in electronic formats (databases, 
spreadsheets, GPS, GIS).
4.      Thoroughly document all fieldwork using field notebooks, survey 
forms, maps, GPS, digital tablets, and cameras. 
Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in botany, ecology, natural resources, range 
management, forestry, or related field. Three years of equivalent field 
may be substituted for degree. 
1.      Knowledge of dichotomous botanical keys and field guides
2.      Willingness to travel extensively during field season, work 
unusual schedules (up to 8 consecutive days), backpack, car camp, and 
live in rustic conditions for extended periods in remote areas
3.      Good physical condition and ability to work long hours in the 
field, travel by foot off-trail in rough terrain, and work through 
inclement weather
4.      Careful attention to detail in collecting data
5.      Comfort and familiarity with the use of computers
6.      Experience or familiarity with the use of GPS
Desired Qualifications
1.      Familiarity with flora of the gulf coast (FL, MS)
2.      Experience collecting vegetation and environmental data in the 
field
3.      Experience with US National Vegetation Classification
4.      One year experience of species identification, community 
classification, or habitat typing
5.      Experience working in hot humid conditions with little shade
Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are 
expected to have the ability to advance the Department’s commitment to 
diversity and inclusion.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------
Applications will be accepted until all positions have been filled or 
through June 30, 2018, whichever comes first. To apply send resume, 
cover letter, and three references (with phone #’s), to Joe Stevens at 
joe.stev...@colostate.edu 
References will not be contacted without prior notification of 
candidates.
Colorado State University is committed to providing a safe and 
productive learning and living community. To achieve that goal, we 
conduct background investigations for all final candidates being 
considered for employment. Background checks may include, but are not 
limited to, criminal history, national sex offender search and motor 
vehicle history.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------
Colorado State University is committed to providing an environment that 
is free from discrimination and harassment based on race, age, creed, 
color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, 
veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity 
or expression, or pregnancy. Colorado State University is an equal 
opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to 
achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all Federal and Colorado 
State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-
discrimination and affirmative action. The Office of Equal Opportunity 
is located in 101 Student Services.

Reply via email to