[ECOLOG-L] NEON Job Opening Staff Scientist - Entomologist
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. These observations and experiments will be monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: •Develop and oversee sampling designs to track abundance, diversity, phenology, and population dynamics of ground-dwelling beetles and mosquitoes. •Develop and oversee NEON invertebrate identification design, including DNA barcode libraries for selected taxa. •Develop QA/QC protocols for field sampling and data processing. •Develop the scientific rationale for scientific measurements and methods. Education: •PhD in ecology, evolution, or related field Experience: •5 years research experience (including PhD research) in insect ecology, specifically related to ground-dwelling beetles or mosquitoes •5 years field experience (including PhD research), familiarity with pitfall trapping methods, mosquito trapping methods, insect identification, bioarchive collections, and/or DNA barcoding. •Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise Skills and Abilities: •Scientific writing and review •Proficiency in analyses that correlate biological data with abiotic variables and ability to perform such analyses within a geospatial framework •Ability to work independently, but as part of an active Science team •Strong communication and interpersonal skills •Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects Physical Requirements: •The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. TO APPLY: Please send your cover letter and CV/resume to care...@neoninc.org with Entomologist in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed beginning June 3, 2009 NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON job opening Freshwater Beiogeochemist
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.), a non-profit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. We are currently planning the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 atmospheric, environmental and biological monitoring experiments distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & the Caribbean, monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. A leading-edge flexible cyber-infrastructure is being designed to support current and future needs of the Observatory. Term of Position This position will be funded for one year initially with the possibility of transition to a full-time staff scientist on the NEON science team as deemed appropriate based on the success of the tasks performed during the first year. Position Summary: Freshwater Biogeochemist will be responsible for designing and developing the aquatic biogeochemical components of the NEON Observatory, including developing field and lab procedures and protocols for data collection, QA/QC, and training; define analytical laboratory requirements; prototype instrument installation. Essential Responsibilities and Goals for the First Year: •Develop and oversee research to track chemistry and isotopic composition of surface and groundwater, aquatic microbes, algae, aquatic plants, invertebrates. •Develop the scientific rationale for biogeochemical measurements and methods. •Develop detailed sampling designs of biogeochemical measurement in streams and ponds, including reaeration rating curve development. •Collaborate with NEON engineers and scientists to prototype in-situ instrument installation •Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in independent research and collaborations. Preferred Experience: •Additional knowledge of pond and lake biogeochemical cycles preferred. •Experience working with federal and state agencies. Education: •PhD in aquatic ecology, aquatic biogeochemistry or related field. Specialization in the biological-chemical linkages of freshwater ecosystems. Required Experience: •3-5 years research experience in aquatic ecology, with emphasis in freshwater or algal chemistry. •Demonstrated experience working in streams and rivers of North America. •Significant experience working with in-situ automated instrumentation. •Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative scientific and engineering enterprise. Skills and Abilities: •Scientific writing and review •Proficiency in analyses that correlate biological data with abiotic variables and ability to perform such analyses within a geospatial framework •Ability to work independently, but as part of an active Science team •Strong communication and interpersonal skills •Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects •Travel to domains at least 6x/year Physical Requirements: •The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. TO APPLY: Please send your cover letter and CV/resume to care...@neoninc.org with Freshwater Biogeochemist in the subject line. Review of applications will begin July 20, 2009. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON, Inc. - Aquatic Ecologist - job opportunity
Overview: The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.), a non-profit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. We are currently planning the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 atmospheric, environmental and biological monitoring experiments distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & the Caribbean. The Observatory is monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. Term of Position: This position will be funded for one year initially with the intention of transition to a full-time staff scientist on the NEON science team. Position Summary: Aquatic Ecologist/ Biogeochemist will be responsible for design and development of the freshwater biogeochemistry components of the NEON Observatory including: procedures and protocols for data collection and lab processing; piloting instrument installation; QA/QC; field-crew training program; and analytical laboratory requirements. Essential Responsibilities and Goals for the First Year: •Develop detailed sampling designs and methodologies for collection and processing of water and sediment in streams, ponds, and subsurface wells •Define sample methods for stream reaeration rating curves •Analyze water and sediment chemistry data from NEON aquatic sites •Collaborate with NEON engineers and scientists to pilot the installation of in-situ instruments •Refine the scientific rationale for biogeochemical measurements, instruments, and methods •Co-develop data QA/QC and field-training programs •Co-develop research to assess chemical and isotopic composition of freshwater organisms •Participate in the larger NEON science community, including independent research and collaborations Required Experience: •Demonstrated field-based experience in freshwater streams and/or ponds of North America •3-5 years research experience in aquatic ecology, with emphasis in freshwater biogeochemistry. •Experience working with in-situ automated instruments. •Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative scientific or engineering enterprise. Education: •PhD in aquatic ecology, aquatic biogeochemistry or related freshwater field. Specialization in the biological-chemical linkages of freshwater ecosystems. Preferred Experience: •Ability or desire to write technical documents •Experience working with federal or state agencies, engineers, and/or computer engineers. •Experience developing QA/QC programs and working with large datasets preferred. Skills and Abilities: •Record of excellent written and verbal communication skills •Ability to work independently, and as part of an active science team •Desire to work collaboratively with engineers and scientists •Proficient scientific and technical writing •Proficiency in analyses that correlate biological data with abiotic variables and ability to perform such analyses within a geospatial framework •Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual Observatory tasks •Travel to domains at least 6x/year in the 2010 Physical Requirements: •The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. TO APPLY: Please send your cover letter and CV/resume to care...@neoninc.org with Aquatic Ecologist Biogeochemist in the subject line. Review of applications will begin 21 September 2009. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON, Inc. - Soil Scientist job opportunity
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. These observations and experiments will be monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. Position Summary The Fundamental Instrument Unit (FIU) consists of an automated suite of meteorological, atmospheric, soil and ecophysiological measurements. The Soil Scientist will support Science project development and management activities. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Design FIU system components that measure soil processes • Coordinate, design and execute analyses for prototype and site characterization activities, • Coordinate soil-related measurements and data products with other related NEON system design groups, e.g., Engineering, CyberInfrastructure, Fundamental Sentinel Unit, and Land Use Analyses Package, • Develop algorithm for computing soil-related data products, • Develop soil-related data quality assurance and quality control procedures, and • Develop plans for evaluating and transferring soil measurements systems to an operational basis Required Experience: • 1-3 years experience in soil-related work, • Experience with a wide range of related soil sensors, and measurement techniques and their associated data acquisition and analysis procedures, • Experience with quantitative analysis of soils or related data, • Experience delivering a final product from concept through testing to deployment, • Experience working in a collaborative scientific or engineering enterprise, and • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in written and oral forms . Education: • Doctoral degree (or MS plus equivalent experience) in one of the environmental science fields (soil science, biometeorology, ecosystem science, micrometeorology etc) or a related Science field. • Recent PhD graduates may apply. Preferred Experience: • Working at the ecosystem-level scale • Some work experience with soil microbiology. • Ability to develop the measurement designs for different and contrasting soil types. Skills and Abilities: • Critical thinking, scientific writing and review, • Ability to travel monthly to domain sites during 2010, plus travel to conferences • Quantification of spatial and temporal variation of soil physical properties and processes (e.g., soil climate, biogeochemistry, respiration, etc.), • Understanding of soils processes and ecosystem modeling, • Demonstrated problem-solving and communication skills, and • Desired knowledge base of both instrument hardware and software development. Physical Requirements: • The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as mountains, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. To Apply: Send your resumes and inquiries to care...@neoninc.org with Soil Scientist in the subject line, and include cover letter, resume, salary history, and salary requirements. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON - Research Assoc - Genetic Bioinformatics - Term Appt
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. These observations and experiments will be monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. Term Appointment: This position will be funded for two years initially with the possibility of one year extension as deemed appropriate based on the success of the tasks performed during the first year. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: •Coordinate and oversee data processing and analyses for two prototype studies: 1) soil microbial diversity and 2) insect DNA barcoding. •Coordinate data management between outsourced analytical facilities and NEON cyberinfrastructure team. •Work with NEON scientists to develop appropriate ways to maintain genetic data and formats for public data access. •Work with NEON scientists to develop useful data products and analyses for the NEON genetic data. •Work with collaborating laboratories and NEON scientists to facilitate publication of results from the prototype studies, and collaborate with the NEON microbiology and barcode working groups to prepare reports and develop recommendations for future analyses and data processing. Education: •PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, computer science or related field (Life science, Ecology, Evolution, etc.) Required Experience: •Experience analyzing high-throughput (454, Illumina, or SOLiD) data •Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise •Scientific writing and review Preferred Experience: •Experience or familiarity with DNA barcoding. Skills and Abilities: •Strong communication and interpersonal skills •Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects •Ability to work independently and as part of an active science team •Problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges •Self-starter who can create new opportunities within this field and use novel methods, analyses and approaches to tackle continental-scale research TO APPLY: Please send your cover letter and CV/resume to care...@neoninc.org with Bioinformatics Research Associate in the subject line. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON, Inc. - Job Opportunity - Spatial Ecologist
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Term Appointment This position will be funded for the duration of the NEON construction project which is estimated to be approximately five years from the start of construction. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Coordinate and oversee field sampling layouts for all NEON sites • Coordinate spatial data management between the Fundamental Sentinel Unit, Cyberinfrastructure, and GIS teams at NEON • Work with NEON scientists to refine appropriate sampling for each taxon at each of the 60 NEON sites • Work with NEON scientists to develop useful data products and analyses for the NEON spatial data • Collaborate with NEON statistician to assess sampling design Education: • PhD or • MS with 10 years experience in ecology, biogeography, land-use analysis or related field. Required Experience: • Experience with land use analyses and spatial statistics • Competent in GIS • Experience analyzing field sampling designs • At least five years of experience in species inventory monitoring • Familiarity with species habitat modeling techniques • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise • Scientific writing and review Skills and Abilities: • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Open to undertaking responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects • Ability to work independently and as part of an active science team • Problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges • Self-starter who can create new opportunities within this field and use novel methods, analyses and approaches to tackle continental-scale research Physical Requirements: • The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. TO APPLY: Apply on-line at www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] 2 Summer Field Techs in Ecology needed for NEON in Harvard Forest
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Position Summary Two temporary Field Technicians are needed to collect insects for the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) (http://www.neoninc.org/) at sites in the Northeast - located at the Harvard Forest in Petersham, MA. The Harvard Forest has been a Long-Term Ecological Research site since 1988 and is host to atmospheric, hydrological, ecological, and biodiversity studies. The NEON focus at Harvard Forest is on climate change and land-use change. Harvard Forest is the northernmost participant in NEON’s nitrogen deposition research, which extends southwest from New England to Alabama. The 2010 research will focus on a subset of the full NEON activities and represents a prototype effort to characterize the site. Timeline This temporary assignment is expected to run June 7 – July 30. Work will be full days Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of each week during this period. The work schedule will be 3 days on/four days off with 8-10h days anticipated. Project Duties Field technicians will install pitfall traps (involves digging small holes and placing traps), check, empty, and reset traps weekly, maintain traps and other field equipment. Technicians will receive training prior to beginning fieldwork. Upon successful completion of training, technicians will work as a pair, independently collecting insects. Technicians will carry a GPS unit and a PDA for data entry. Required Qualifications • A valid, current driver's license • Personal vehicle capable of driving on muddy or gravel roads • Proof of auto insurance • Must be at least 18 years of age. • Must be US Citizen Preferred Qualifications • Currently working toward BS, MS, Ph.D. degree in Ecology or Biology or another related field • Experience as a field technician • Experience with backcountry hiking and navigation (maps, compass, and GPS) • Experience leading hikes, or assisting nature societies with seasonal nature observations • Wildlife safety training course or another safety training course Skills and Abilities: • Ability to follow instructions, a strong work ethic, and enthusiasm • Able to supply personal gear (adequate clothing and boots, etc.) • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Proficient in MS Office including Excel and Word • Attention to detail and accuracy Physical Abilities • Ability to hike with packs up to 25 lbs (carrying traps and other field equipment) to field sites off-trail for distances of up to 3 miles • Ability to work in adverse weather conditions and in all types of terrains Compensation $12/hr plus mileage (reimbursed). Apply online at www.neoninc.org by 23 April 2010. Be sure to include your resume, cover letter including dates of availability and at least three references. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Post Doc - Disease Ecologist - NEON
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.), headquartered in Boulder, CO, is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Term of Position This position will be funded for two years initially with the possibility of one year extension as deemed appropriate based on the success of the tasks performed during the first year. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Coordinate and oversee data processing and analyses for four zoonoses: both mammal-transmitted (Hantavirus + Lyme disease) and arboviruses (West Nile Virus and Dengue virus) • Research and evaluate the appropriate methods and sample sizes to meet NEON science requirements. • Coordinate data management between outsourced analytical facilities and NEON cyberinfrastructure team. • Work with NEON scientists to develop appropriate ways to maintain data and formats for public data access. • Coordinate information sharing with relevant communities (e.g. the Center for Disease Control and Prevention; Walter Reed) • Work with collaborating laboratories and NEON scientists to facilitate publication of results, and collaborate with the NEON insect and mammal ecologists to prepare reports and develop recommendations for best practices, future analyses and data processing. Education: • PhD in ecology, evolutionary biology, or related field. Required Experience: • 3 years experience in infectious disease epidemiology, disease modeling, biostatistics, research development and surveillance methods. • Experience or familiarity with planning surveillance schemes, analyzing data and refining approach based on results. • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise Skills and Abilities: • Scientific writing and review • Ability to work independently, but as part of an active science team with strong communication and interpersonal skills • Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects • Problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges. • Self-starter who can create new opportunities within this field and use novel methods, analyses and approaches to tackle continental-scale research. Apply at: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Aquatic Ecologist - NEON
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use, invasive species, and unsustainable water use impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Summary: The Aquatic Ecologist will be part of an Aquatic Team this is responsible for developing a national program to assess physical, chemical, and biological changes in streams and small lakes over 30 years. The Team will define measurements, train personnel, and perform QA/QC in order to produce high quality data products for the research, education, and decision making community. Specifically the Aquatic Ecologist is responsible for developing and implementing detailed sampling designs and analytical protocols for freshwater algae, macroalgae; bryophytes, lichen, and macrophytes; and related morphology/bathymetry of North American streams and small lakes. This position will co-develop sampling designs for aquatic microbes. The Aquatic Ecologist will work with an interdisciplinary team of ecologists, engineers, and other scientists to design, develop, test, and implement statistically valid protocols to produce data products that will enable researchers to investigate the impact of climate change, land-use change, invasive species, and unsustainable water use on freshwater ecosystems of North America. The Aquatic Ecologist is expected to produce reports and publications of NEON procedures and protocols and is encouraged to collaborate with the research community to investigate continental scale ecology. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Develop and oversee data collection program to track diversity and functional changes in algae, and aquatic plants in streams and small lakes of North America. • Development and implementation of data QA/QC plan. • Training of field crews. • Document the scientific rationale for biological measurements and methods. • Co-develop detailed sampling designs for microbial communities. • Co-develop detailed sampling designs to assess changes in stream morphology and lake bathymetry that drive algal and aquatic plant community dynamics. • Collaborate with NEON engineers and scientists to define audit sampling procedures. • Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in independent research and collaborations and attending meetings/conferences. Education: • PhD in aquatic ecology or related field. Specialization in algal or related ecology with emphasis on biological-chemical-physical linkages of freshwater ecosystems. • Currently enrolled in or completed a Post Doctoral position related to the role of algae, aquatic plants, or microbes in freshwater ecosystems. Required Experience: • 5+ years research experience in freshwater aquatic ecology, with emphasis in the role of primary producers (e.g. algae, aquatic plants) on freshwater ecosystem structure and function. • Significant field experience working in streams, rivers, and lakes of North America. • Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative scientific and engineering enterprise. • Demonstrated ability to write technical and scientific documents. Preferred Experience: • Working knowledge of stream and lake morphological dynamics preferred. • Knowledge of the role of microbial communities in freshwater ecosystem structure and function preferred, but not required • Experience working with federal and state agencies and NGO’s. Skills and Abilities: • Scientific writing and review • Proficiency in analyses that correlate biological data with abiotic variables and ability to perform such analyses within a geospatial framework • Ability to work independently, but as part of an active science team • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects • Travel to domains at least 2x/year Physical Abilities: • The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. Apply at: www.neoninc.org Review of applications will begin 1 May 2010. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Job opportunity - Instrumentation Scientist
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. This is a fulltime position; however, we will also accept applications from candidates who are interested in taking a sabbatical from their current position. Summary: The Instrument Engineer/Scientist will be part of the Aquatic Team that is responsible for developing a national program to assess physical, chemical, and biological changes in streams and lakes over 30 years. The Team will define sensor installation designs; oversee sensor construction; review/revise science measurements; document field procedures; document data product procedures; train personnel; and perform data QA/QC in order to produce high quality data products for the research, education, and decision making communities. Specifically, the Instrument Engineer/Scientist is responsible for designing and documenting sensor installations/mounts for NEON aquatic sites. The aquatic sensor suite includes water quality multisondes, nutrient analyzers, water height and flow sensors, distributed water temperature and PAR sensors, and atmospheric chemistry and micromet sensors. NEON aquatic sites include small wadeable streams, large navigable rivers, and small lakes throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico – sites span a gradient of environmental conditions: extreme low-flows to tropical-flood cycles. In the first year, the Instrument Engineer/Scientist will be responsible for developing and documenting a “playbook” of sensor installations, including to-scale blueprints, materials lists, and construction requirements. Subsequently, this position will be responsible for modifying the designs from the playbook for site-specific installations and providing technical oversight during the construction phase. Modifications to the design playbook will also be documented (e.g. similar to well files for groundwater well installations). This position is not responsible for power or communication designs to the sensors, but may collaborate with the NEON Engineering Team to optimize these aspects of the work. In addition, the Instrument Engineer/Scientist will document sensor maintenance and field-calibration plans, in collaboration with NEON’s Engineering and Calibration (CVAL) Teams. This position will develop, document and implement detailed designs and analytical protocols for in- situ sensor related data products (e.g. sensor drift statistics; data QA, gap-filling and correction; algorithms for high level data products). The Instrument Engineer/Scientist will work with an interdisciplinary team of ecologists, mechanical and electrical engineers, computing engineers, and other scientists to design, develop, test, and implement statistically valid protocols to produce data products that will enable researchers to investigate the impact of climate change, land-use change, invasive species, and unsustainable water use on freshwater ecosystems of North America. The Instrument Engineer/Scientist is expected to produce reports and publications of NEON designs, procedures, and protocols and is encouraged to collaborate with the research community to investigate continental scale ecology. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Design and document sensor installations for water quality in-situ sensors in small, wadeable streams, navigable rivers, and small lakes. • Document sensor maintenance standard operating procedures (SOPs). • Collaborate with the NEON Calibration (CVAL) Team to define aquatic sensor field and lab calibration procedures. • Co-develop and implement data QA/QC, gap-filling, and correction plans. • Oversee construction of sensor installations • Travel to NEON sites as part of the design effort and to oversee sensor construction efforts. • Develop sensor maintenance training program for field crews. • Review and revise scientific data products related to in-situ sensors. • Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in independent research and
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Geospatial Field Technician(s) - multiple locations
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Term Appointment: These are temporary full-time positions. The positions are available for start in June 1, 2011 with an anticipated completion date of September 30st, 2011. Summary The Field Technician(s) will travel and ground-truth abiotic and biotic characterizations of specific sites across a variety of landscapes. Work at these field sites may include long workdays, sometimes under harsh environmental conditions. Typically, travel will occur during the workweek in 10 days up to 3 week blocks, but at times may include travel over weekends. Location – travel will be to the following locations- candidates can be located anywhere geographically within the United States as long as they are willing to travel. Alabama: Talladega National Forest Colorado: Niwot Ridge, Rocky Mountain National Park, Sterling Massachusetts: Harvard Forest, Plum Island -Burlington, MA New Hampshire: Bartlett Forest Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Utah: Red Butte Canyon Washington: Wind River Experimental Forest Wyoming/Montana: Yellowstone National Park Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Work as a member of a team to evaluate and validate the NEON study design for long-term monitoring of terrestrial organisms • Visit potential sample locations in the field at NEON study sites to ground-truth abiotic and biotic characterizations of specific sites across a variety of landscapes • Navigate a variety of wilderness and managed landscapes with safety, precision, and efficiency • Acquire and manage spatially-explicit photographs and data, including the transfer of data to and from a GPS unit to a computer • Extensive travel - 90% of time will be spent traveling between June and September 2011 Required Experience • Valid driver’s license – must be 21 to drive • Must be US Citizen • Proof of auto insurance • Extensive experience hiking in remote wilderness landscapes (maps, compass, GPS) away from roads and trails • Experience working with Microsoft office products including Word & Excel Preferred Experience • Currently working toward BS, MS, Ph.D. degree in Ecology, Geography, or Biology or another related field • Experience as a field technician • Experience leading hikes, or assisting nature societies with seasonal nature observations • Emergency response/first aid training such as wilderness first aid or wilderness first responder • Wildlife safety training course • Leadership role in an extended field data collection effort • Proven history of organizing spatial and site-specific information • Experience working with vegetation maps and other ecological data • Experience with field validation or accuracy assessment of ecological models, soil, and vegetation maps • Experience working with GPS Pathfinder Office software Skills and Abilities • Ability to follow instructions, a strong work ethic, and enthusiasm • Able to supply personal gear (adequate clothing and boots, etc.) • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Attention to detail and accuracy • Ability to successfully work through problems with minimal supervision • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Ability to work independently and as a member of an active science team • Proven ability to work well as a member of team in challenging situations and environments Physical Abilities • Ability to hike with pack up to 25 lbs (carrying field equipment) to evaluate field sites off-trail for distances up to three miles • Ability to work in adverse weather conditions and in all types of terrain Apply online at www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Groundwater Hydrologist job opportunity - Boulder, Co
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Summary: The Groundwater Hydrologist will be part of the Aquatic Team that is responsible for developing a national program to assess physical, chemical, and biological changes in streams and lakes over 30 years. The Hydrologist will design groundwater wells for water quality monitoring; oversee well construction and sensor installation; review/revise science measurements; document field procedures; document data product procedures; train personnel; and perform data QA/QC in order to produce high quality data products for the research, education, and decision making communities. Specifically, the Groundwater Hydrologist is responsible for designing, documenting, and overseeing construction of shallow, subsurface water quality monitoring wells (e.g. groundwater wells) at NEON aquatic sites. The purpose of the wells is to define and track regional flowpaths and inputs in the location of an Aquatic site. NEON Aquatic sites include small wadeable streams, large navigable rivers, and small lakes throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico – sites span a gradient of environmental conditions: extreme low-flows to tropical-flood cycles; sand to bedrock lithologies. The Groundwater Hydrologist will be responsible for developing and documenting site specific designs for well installations and locations at each site; defining and meeting site specific regulations for well construction; overseeing installation of wells; and documenting well files for each site. At each NEON site, up to 8 shallow subsurface wells will be distributed throughout a defined reach along streams or lakes. Wells are to be constructed using minimally invasive technology and are thus small wells for monitoring quality and quantity of subsurface flows. In addition, the Groundwater Hydrologist will document sensor maintenance and field-calibration plans for a groundwater well multisonde, in collaboration with NEON’s Engineering and Calibration (CVAL) Teams. This position is not responsible for power or communication designs to the well sensor, but may collaborate with the NEON Engineering Team to optimize these aspects of the work. This position will also develop, document and implement detailed designs and analytical protocols for groundwater sampling, in conjunction with the Aquatic Biogeochemist. The Hydrologist will also develop and document groundwater well related data products (e.g. sensor drift statistics; data QA, gap-filling and correction; algorithms for high level data products). The Groundwater Hydrologist will work with an interdisciplinary team of ecologists, mechanical and electrical engineers, computing engineers, and other scientists to design, develop, test, and implement statistically valid protocols to produce data products that will enable researchers to investigate the impact of climate change, land-use change, invasive species, and unsustainable water use on freshwater ecosystems of North America. The Groundwater Hydrologist will be expected to produce reports and publications of NEON designs, procedures, and protocols and is encouraged to collaborate with the research community to investigate continental scale ecology. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Design groundwater well installations for all NEON Aquatic sites • Coordinate and oversee all aspects of construction of groundwater wells • Document groundwater well installations in well files • Document sensor maintenance standard operating procedures (SOPs) for an in situ groundwater well multisonde and water sample collection • Collaborate with the NEON Calibration (CVAL) Team to define sensor field and lab calibration procedures • Co-develop and implement data QA/QC, gap-filling, and correction plans. • Travel to NEON sites as part of the design effort and to oversee construction efforts. • Co-develop sampling and sensor maintenance training program for field
[ECOLOG-L] Biology Lab Technician job opportunity - Boulder, CO
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Summary: The CVAL and Biology Research Technician works in the Calibration, Validation, and Audit Laboratory (CVAL). The CVAL audit lab is responsible for the auditing of external analytical laboratories for soil, vegetation and invertebrate samples analysis. Reporting to the Manager of Cal/Val Lab, the CVAL and Biology Research Technician will provide support in developing, process testing, and maintaining of the CVAL audit laboratory. In addition, the Technician will work with the CVAL team to perform environmental sensor calibrations and validations. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Assist in the maintenance and operation of the CVAL laboratory, including general upkeep and organization, and maintenance of stock of regularly used materials and supplies • Prepare and process soil, vegetation and invertebrate samples for audit activities of external laboratories • Manage the storage and shipping of CVAL test audit samples • Receive and sort external analytical laboratory data, and perform initial QA/QC on data from external laboratories • Execute procedures to complete calibration and validation on environmental sensor assemblies • Perform calibration activities on environmental sensors using manual and/or automated calibration fixtures • Prepare reports and materials to assist the CVAL team in presenting CVAL designs and audit results to external groups Education: • Bachelors Degree in Biology, or Ecology, or related field of study Required Experience: • 2 years of research and/or laboratory sample processing experience • Specific lab experience with soils, invertebrates, or plants Skills and Abilities: • Attention to detail and accuracy • Demonstrated strong organizational and multitasking skills • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Able to travel Physical Abilities: • Able to lift at least 40 pounds. • Able to work outdoors in all types of weather, environmental conditions and remote locations. • Able to climb tall towers and work at elevations. Apply to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Staff Scientist - job opportunity NEON - Boulder, CO
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Position Summary Reporting to the Manager of Data Products, the Ecoinformatics Staff Scientist will be responsible for contributing to the development and generation of all data products of the NEON Observatory, working with the NEON’s science, cyberinfrastructure, and education teams, as well as the external community, to define and create data products and manage their lifecycle. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Apply ecoinformatics and statistics expertise to a wide variety of problems related to data product development for the NEON Observatory • Apply Bayesian statistical techniques to model-data assimilation, inference of continental-scale drivers of ecophysical processes, and analysis of metagenomic data derived from NEON biotic samples • Contribute to the development of the science rationale for data products, developing and prototyping algorithms for their generation • Engage stakeholders in vetting data product produced materials • Ensure the utility and veracity of NEON data products by engaging the user community in meetings, workshops, and working groups Required Experience: • Broadly-trained scientist well-versed in or eager to learn the breadth of NEON scientific efforts • Expertise in the application of statistical theory to biological and/or physical systems • Expertise with common statistical software packages (e.g., R) • Familiarity with data processing workflows in a production environment • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise Preferred Experience: • Postdoctoral experience in a scientific research environment • Teaching experience Education: • PhD, ScD, or equivalent degree in ecology, ecoinformatics, biogeochemistry, statistics, applied mathematics, or related fields Skills and Abilities: • Skilled at scientific writing and review • Strong communication and interpersonal skills Apply to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Staff Scientist - Meteorological/Ecophysical
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Position Summary Reporting to the Senior Supervising Scientist of the Fundamental Instrument Unit (FIU), the FIU Staff Scientist will support science project development and management activities for the FIU component of the NEON Observatory. The FIU consists of an automated suite of meteorological, atmospheric, soil and ecophysiological measurements. The FIU is responsible for developing innovative data products and QA/QC algorithms, sensor deployment in the field, a mobile sensor platform, field procedures, training materials for field staff, developing new site designs and ongoing technology assessments. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Coordinate, design and execute a mobile research platform for the NEON Observatory • Coordinate, design and execute technical transfer and procedures for the NEON Observatory • Communicate key science issues and technical transfer to a wide range of audiences, including scientists and non-experts alike. • Develop FIU data quality assurance, quality control procedures, and uncertainty analyses • Design and coordinate FIU dataflows with other related NEON groups Required Experience: • 3 or more years experience in meteorological, ecophysical or related work • Strong experience working with quantitative uncertainty analyses and time-series analyses • Experience delivering a final product from concept through testing to completion • Experience working in a collaborative scientific or engineering enterprise Education: • Doctoral degree in an environmental science field, such as biometeorology, ecosystem science, micrometeorology, soil ecology, or other related field Preferred Experience: • Post doctoral experience • Field work in related field of study • Some work experience with production data flow • Knowledge of a wide range of meteorological related sensors, and measurement techniques and their associated data acquisition and analysis procedures, • Design of metadata, and data handling tools Skills and Abilities: • Ability to incorporate components specific to the incumbent’s area of expertise into a challenging Observatory-based design • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in written and oral forms • Demonstrated critical thinking with respect to scientific writing and review • Ability to travel (infrequently) to remote field locations, and travel to conferences • Ability to develop the dataflow designs for different and contrasting data types To Apply: go to www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Test Scientist/Engineer - 6 month term
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Timeline: This position is funded for a six month assignment. Summary: Reporting to the Senior Supervising Scientist for FIU, the Test Scientist will evaluate the minirhizotron sensor performance in laboratory and field settings. The evaluation will include performing the tests, collecting and managing data, performing statistical analyses, and synthesizing findings. The findings from the testing will be used to produce a report written by the successful applicant, which in turn, will inform the NEON design. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Test image collection to estimate repeatability, resolution, accuracy, and functional properties of the minirhizotrons. • Develop additional tests as needed to further evaluate minirhizotron performance. (A series of initial tests have already been developed by NEON personnel, but we expect additional tests will be required). • Statistical analyses of the data and synthesize findings. • Archiving the data (and related metadata), so that additional analyses can be performed in the future if necessary. • Produce a written report that describes the tests and results that were performed, as well as the synthesized findings Required Experience: • Conducting experiments and managing data • Performing statistical analyses • Synthesizing findings and writing technical reports and/or scientific papers Education: • Undergraduate degree either ecology (ecophysiology, root ecology, soil ecology), or in engineering (electrical, mechanical, sensor technologies), or a related field • Preferred: Graduate degree either ecology (ecophysiology, root ecology, soil ecology), or in engineering (electrical, mechanical, sensor technologies), or a related field Preferred Experience: • Experience in sensor acquisition or measurement technologies • Using minirhizotrons and processing minirhizotron images • Experience using minirhizotrons in a variety of ecosystems and soil types • Experience linking minirhizotron data with other ecological measurements Skills and Abilities: • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise • Ability to work independently and as part of an active science team • Strong communication and interpersonal skills To Apply: go to www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON - Job Opportunity - Mammal Ecologist
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Coordinate and oversee data processing and analyses for field sampling associated with small mammal sampling, specifically deer mice. • Work with NEON disease ecologist to develop best methods for sampling for biodiversity, density, population dynamics, and disease. • Research and evaluate the appropriate methods and sample sizes to meet NEON science requirements. • Provide methods and scientific support to NEON permitting team for IACUC approval. • Coordinate data management between outsourced analytical facilities and NEON cyberinfrastructure team. • Work with NEON scientists to develop appropriate ways to maintain data and formats for public data access. • Coordinate information sharing with relevant communities • Work with collaborating laboratories and NEON scientists to facilitate publication of results, and collaborate with other NEON scientists to prepare reports and develop recommendations for best practices, future analyses and data processing. Education • PhD in ecology, evolutionary biology, or related field. Required Experience • Specific knowledge in small mammal field sampling for biodiversity and population dynamics. • 5 years experience or familiarity with planning surveillance schemes, analyzing data and refining approach based on results. Preferred Experience: • Experience working with Peromyscus species • Experience with Lyme disease and Hantavirus • Experience working in diverse habitats for mammal sampling Skills and Abilities: • Scientific writing and review • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise • Open to undertaking responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects • Ability to work independently and as part of an active science team • Problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges • Self-starter who can create new opportunities within this field and use novel methods, analyses and approaches to tackle continental-scale research Physical Abilities: • The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. Apply to:www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON- 6 Summer Field Technicians needed-Ordway Swisher Biological Station
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Position Summary Six temporary Field Technicians are needed to assist with field work at the Ordway-Swisher Biological Station (OSBS), part of the University of Florida located in Gainesville, FL. Field-based vegetation measurements will enable calibration of airborne spectrophotometric and LIDAR data that NEON will simultaneously acquire over Ordway-Swisher in late August. Together, the ground-based and airborne vegetation data will form the foundation of NEON’s ability to scale up site based measurements of plant biomass and carbon stocks to regional and continental scales. Timeline This temporary assignment is expected to run between the 9th – 20th of August, 2010. Work will be full days Monday through Friday both weeks during this period with 8-10h days anticipated, with periodic longer hours required. At times work will be starting at dawn through dusk. Project Duties Field technicians will be responsible for the following tasks over the two week period: 1) making measurements of leaf area index (LAI) with a hand- held analyzer in multiple forest types; 2) measuring diameter at breast height, canopy height and canopy width on trees and large shrubs; and 3) identifying trees and large shrubs to species. Training will be provided for all required instruments, and NEON will also instruct the field crew with regard to proper methodology for collecting measurements on vegetation physical structure. Required Qualifications • A valid, current driver's license • Proof of auto insurance • Must be at least 18 years of age • Must be US Citizen • Experience as a field technician Preferred Qualifications • Currently working toward BS, MS, Ph.D. degree in Forestry or Ecology or another related field • Previous experience leading field work, or acting in a lead capacity on a team • Experience with identifying local trees and shrubs • Prior experience with LAI analyzers • Experience with backcountry hiking and navigation (maps, compass, and GPS) • Experience leading hikes, or assisting nature societies with seasonal nature observations • Wildlife safety training course or another safety training course Skills and Abilities: • Ability to follow instructions, a strong work ethic, and enthusiasm • Able to supply personal gear (adequate clothing and boots, etc.) • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Proficient in MS Office including Excel and Word • Attention to detail and accuracy Physical Abilities • Ability to hike with packs up to 25 lbs (carrying field equipment) to field sites off-trail for distances of up to 3 miles • Ability to work in adverse weather conditions and in all types of terrain Compensation • $12-20 per hr, DOE, plus mileage reimbursement Apply online at www.neoninc.org Be sure to include your resume, cover letter and names of 3 references. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Aquatic Technician - NEON - one year assignment - Boulder, CO
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. The Aquatic Team will collect physical, chemical, and biological data on streams and small lakes across twenty domains in the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & the Caribbean. The Team will define measurements, train personnel, and perform QA/QC in order to produce high quality data products for the research, education, and decision making community. Term of Position This position is as a term (one year), full-time position on the NEON Aquatic science team. Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary: The Aquatic Technician will assist the Aquatic Team with gathering existing data and information on streams and ponds/lakes across the United States. This includes water chemistry; plant, insect, and fish species lists; aerial photographs; maps; and other historical information. This information is critical for the Team to prepare the sites for construction. The Technician will work independently searching for existing literature and data, and as part of the Team to develop data management tools. The Technician will also have the opportunity to gain experience in GIS, water chemistry analyses, and mapping of aquatic ecosystems. The Aquatic Technician is expected to produce reports of NEON site information and is encouraged to collaborate with the Staff to investigate other publications. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Independently seek published data and information from libraries, local NGOs, researchers, municipalities, Federal and State agencies • Seek unpublished data from local researchers and NGOs • Co-create data management system for historical site data: working in collaboration with Aquatic scientists and the NEON Computing team • Coordinate and compile disparate data and information for ease of analysis and retrieval • Work with NEON GIS to digitize and organize historical maps, images, and aerial photos of sites • Participate in the larger NEON science community Education: • Bachelor’s degree in aquatic ecology or related field. Required Experience: • Experience with university library research, including Web of Science • Ability to independently gather information from federal and state agencies’ online data portals • Ability to telephone interview researchers and scientists • Demonstrated ability to write technical documents Preferred Experience: • Ability to create and interpret stream hydrographs • Knowledge of freshwater water quality parameters • Knowledge of GIS preferred Skills and Abilities: • Literature and library research skills • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Technical writing • Ability to work independently, and as part of an active science team TO APPLY: www.neoninc.org Review of applications will begin 15 June 2010. Relocation and Housing is not provided. NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Post Doc opportunity - Infectious Disease Epidemiology- NEON - Boulder, CO
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.), headquartered in Boulder, CO, is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Term of Position This position will be funded for two years initially with the possibility of one year extension as deemed appropriate based on the success of the tasks performed during the first year. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Coordinate and oversee data processing and analyses for four zoonoses: both mammal-transmitted (Hantavirus + Lyme disease) and arboviruses (West Nile Virus and Dengue virus) • Research and evaluate the appropriate collection methods, handling procedures, and sample sizes to meet NEON science requirements. • Evaluate appropriate detection analyses for each disease of interest. • Coordinate data management between outsourced analytical facilities and NEON cyberinfrastructure team. • Work with NEON scientists to develop appropriate ways to maintain data and formats for public data access. • Coordinate information sharing with relevant communities (e.g. the Center for Disease Control and Prevention; Walter Reed) • Work with collaborating laboratories and NEON scientists to facilitate publication of results, and collaborate with the NEON insect and mammal ecologists to prepare reports and develop recommendations for best practices, future analyses and data processing. Education: • PhD in epidemiology, ecology, evolutionary biology, or related field. Required Experience: • Experience with mathematical modeling of infectious disease • 3 years experience in infectious disease epidemiology, disease modeling, biostatistics, research development and surveillance methods. • Experience with predictive modeling (e.g., disease spread) • Ability to design surveillance schemes, analyze data and refine approach based on results. • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise Skills and Abilities: • Scientific writing and review • Ability to work independently, but as part of an active science team with strong communication and interpersonal skills • Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects • Problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges. • Self-starter who can create new opportunities within this field and use novel methods, analyses and approaches to tackle continental-scale research. Documents Required to be submitted in order to be considered for the position include: CV, Cover Letter: In your cover letter, please include your experience with predictive modeling, disease testing, surveillance protocols, and any relevant field experience. Apply at: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON - Biometeorologist/Meteorologist QA QC Scientist Job Opportunity
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Position Summary The Fundamental Instrument Unit (FIU) consists of an automated suite of meteorological, atmospheric, soil and ecophysiological measurements. The Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) Scientist will support Science project development and management activities. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Design FIU data flow, data product algorithms and automated QA/QC procedures, • Develop FIU data quality assurance, quality control procedures, and uncertainty analyses, • Coordinate, design and execute analyses of dataflows, • Coordinate FIU dataflows with other related NEON groups, • Develop plans for evaluating and transferring data QA/QC activities into an operational basis Required Experience: • 1-3 years experience in meteorological-related work, • Knowledge of a wide range of meteorological related sensors, and measurement techniques and their associated data acquisition and analysis procedures, • Experience with quantitative uncertainty analyses and time-series analyses, • Experience delivering a final product from concept through testing to deployment, • Experience working in a collaborative scientific or engineering enterprise, and • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in written and oral forms Education: • Doctoral degree (or MS plus equivalent experience) in one of the environmental science fields (biometeorology, ecosystem science, micrometeorology etc) or a related Science field. • Recent PhD graduates may apply. Preferred Experience: • Working at the synoptic to local scale • Some work experience with production data flows • Design of data visualization tools, • Ability to develop the dataflow designs for different and contrasting data types. Skills and Abilities: • Critical thinking, scientific writing and review, • Ability to travel (infrequently), plus travel to conferences • Quantification of spatial and temporal variation of data quality properties and processes • Understanding of micrometeorological processes and associated modeling, • Demonstrated problem-solving and communication skills, and • Desired knowledge base of both instrument hardware and software development. To Apply: Documents to include, Curriculum Vitea and Cover Letter: In your cover letter, please include your experience with micrometeorological processes and associated modeling, and any relevant experience. Apply to www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON Inc - Director Education - Job Opportunity
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Summary Supervised by the Chief of Education and Public Engagement , the Education Director (ED) will be responsible for the development, planning and implementation of the NEON web portal including all content and design. The NEON web portal will be used to deliver NEON information to educators, scientists, decision makers, general public and citizen scientists.The ED will also work closely with the NEON Education Department personnel to develop and implement a comprehensive citizen science program that will be facilitated through the NEON web portal. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Manage content development from conceptualization through implementation that will meet NEON core objectives to provide online learning experiences to various interest groups. • Manage the design (i.e., organization, look and feel, functionality) of the NEON web portal and work closely with NEON software developers to implement the design. • Supervise a small team of graphic/multi-media/web designers and science educators to plan, research, develop and implement the NEON web portal. • Engage stakeholders in web portal development process including attending and speaking at conferences, meetings and events related to NEON education efforts • Communicate NEON activities to variety of stakeholders including scientists, educators, students, decision makers, politicians and the general public • Develop a feedback mechanism on the effectiveness of information provided in the web portal. • Coordinate multiple projects concurrently Education • Master’s degree in science field, science education, instructional design, environmental studies or related field Required Experience • 3+ years developing content for web portal • 7 + years developing science education learning resources • 5+ years managing complex projects • Previous experience developing and writing grant proposals • 7+ years experience on science education projects • 2+ years experience managing personnel • Experience using graphic design software Preferred Experience: • Developing science curriculum materials for K-12 audiences • Developing resources for informal science audiences such as citizen scientists • Using web content management systems • Designing web interface for sharing large datasets with scientists • Developing and leading professional development and training courses for educators, decision makers, scientists • Supervising educator and/or web design personnel Skills and Abilities: • Strong computer skills; proficient in MS Office products to include Word and Excel, experience with Adobe Creative Suite software and web site content management systems. • Demonstrated ability to develop web portal content and design • Familiarity with science learning theory • Excellent verbal and written communication skills • Proven ability to work cross-functionally to accomplish departmental goals • Ability to work in a team environment as both a leader and team member • Proven ability to manage a complex project from inception through to implementation • Ability to manage multiple tasks and successfully meet deadlines • Ability to solve problems independently while working in a fast paced, energetic environment Physical Abilities: • Ability to travel periodically Apply to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON - Biometeorologist/Meteorologist Airshed Analyst Post Doc
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. Term of Position This position will be funded for three years. Position Summary The Fundamental Instrument Unit (FIU) consists of an automated suite of meteorological, atmospheric, soil and ecophysiological measurements. The position will support Science project development and management activities. The FIU employs tower-based micrometeorological data products (incl. eddy covariance). Sources of uncertainties can be identified from flow statistics, topography, and land cover (source/sink strengths). To assure the data quality and control of these data, this position will develop procedures that will combine the traditional data quality assessment with topography, land cover, and analytic footprint modeling. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Coordinate, design and execute innovative airshed analyses, • Develop FIU data quality assurance, quality control procedures, and uncertainty analyses, • Coordinate FIU dataflows with other related NEON groups, • Develop plans for evaluating and transferring research-grade programming into an operational and production framework Required Experience: • 1-3 years experience in meteorological-related work, • Experience with quantitative uncertainty analyses and time-series analyses, • Experience delivering a final product from concept through testing to completion, • Experience in programming meteorological analyses with diverse types of datasets • Experience working in a collaborative scientific or engineering enterprise, and • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in written and oral forms Education: • Doctoral degree in an environmental science field (e.g., biometeorology, ecosystem science, micrometeorology) or a related field. • Recent PhD graduates may apply (post-doc position). Preferred Experience: • Working at the synoptic to local scale • Some work experience with production data flows • Knowledge of a wide range of meteorological related sensors, and measurement techniques and their associated data acquisition and analysis procedures, • Design of data visualization tools, • Ability to develop the dataflow designs for different and contrasting data types. Skills and Abilities: • Critical thinking, scientific writing and review, • Ability to travel (infrequently), plus travel to conferences • Quantification of spatial and temporal variation of data quality properties and processes • Understanding of micrometeorological processes and ecosystem modeling, • Demonstrated problem-solving and communication skills, and who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges, • One who can create new opportunities within this field and use novel methods, analyses and approaches to tackle continental-scale research. • Desired knowledge base of both instrument hardware and software development. To Apply: Documents to include, Curriculum Vitea and Cover Letter: In your cover letter, please include your experience with meteorological modeling, program testing, program languages, and any relevant field experience. Apply to www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON - Sr. Scientist - Visiting Appointment
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. The observatory network will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales over multiple decades. The Fundamental Sentinel Unit of the Observatory (FSU) is responsible for measurement and sampling in organismal biology. Position Term/Location This position is a term position for 12-18 months. The position is located in Boulder, CO at NEON headquarters reporting to the FSU Manager. Position Summary NEON invites applications from established senior ecologists who are passionate about understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology on a continental scale to help develop scientific protocols and assist in acquiring resources for bio archives, chemical, genetic, isotopic and disease analyses. This is an active “hands-on” position and is an excellent opportunity for those who want to focus their efforts to work on big science in a project environment and assist with providing strategic advice, and collaborate with other scientists in academe, industry and the government. As the Sr. Visitor you will initiate and help design the scientific protocols development direction for a national observatory and facilitate external reviews of critical FSU protocols. You will play a key part in managing the process for external review of FSU protocols. You will also manage the design and implementation of external facility contracts (including Bioarchive, Chemical, Genetic, Isotopic, and Disease). Additionally, as a member of the FSU facility you will use your experience and expertise to provide advice to solve scientific principles and contribute to the design of field crew staffing, training and operations plans and be a key interface with the Field Operations group. Required Experience • MS (PhD preferred) in ecology or related field • At least 15 years experience in ecological research or natural resources management, or equivalent experience Preferred Experience: • Experience working with government agencies in the context of ecological research • Experience working with field crews and field stations • History of good communication experience among multiple partners (e.g., academic, government, private) • Experience with contract management Skills and Abilities: • Solid analytical skills and creative problem solver who can successfully apply experience and judgment to both short- and long-term challenges • Self-starter who can develop novel methods, analyses and approaches to enable continental-scale research • Demonstrated expert level communication skills to effectively explain requirements, present solutions, and influence management or external sponsors in area of expertise; and coach, mentor and counsel employees with a wide range of experience, skills and interests • Demonstrated interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with a broad wide range of scientific, technical, and management staff, stakeholders, and vendors • Experience working collaboratively and ability to develop appropriate responses to changing priorities and ability to meet deadlines • Occasional travel for meetings and conferences • Highly organized • Knowledge of field biology protocols and practices • Scientific writing and review • Open to undertaking responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects • Ability to work independently and as part of an active science team • Problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges Apply to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Biometeorologist/Meteorologist/Atmospheric Modeler: - NEON Post doc opportunity
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska and Puerto Rico. These observations and experiments will be monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. Position Summary The Fundamental Instrument Unit (FIU) consists of an automated suite of meteorological, atmospheric, soil and ecophysiological measurements. The position will support Science project development and management activities. The FIU employs tower-based micrometeorological data products (incl. eddy covariance). Sources of uncertainties can be identified from flow statistics, topography, and land cover (source/sink strengths). This position provides a unique opportunity to develop state of the art models into the NEON design, for example, combining the traditional data quality assessment with topography, land cover, and analytic footprint modeling. This position directly contributes in making NEON’s flux measurements part of a world-class observatory through state-of-the-art techniques. All NEON scientists are stewards of this global resource. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Coordinate, design and execute innovative airshed analyses, • Develop analytical procedures to quality assess micrometeorological processes through the spatial integration of variables, e.g., topography, land cover, and footprint modeling, and incorporate them into uncertainty analyses • Coordinate FIU dataflows with other related NEON groups, • Develop plans for evaluating and transferring research-grade programming into an operational and production framework Required Experience: • 1-5 years experience in meteorological-related work using physical and empirical models • Experience with quantitative uncertainty analyses and time-series analyses, • Experience delivering a final product from concept through testing to completion, • Experience in programming meteorological analyses with diverse types of datasets • Experience working in a collaborative scientific or engineering enterprise, and • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in written and oral forms Education: • Doctoral degree in an environmental science field (e.g., biometeorology, ecosystem science, micrometeorology, atmospheric modeling) or a related field. • Recent PhD graduates may apply (post-doc position). Preferred Experience: • Working at the synoptic to local scale • Some work experience with production data flows • Knowledge of a wide range of meteorological related sensors, and measurement techniques and their associated data acquisition and analysis procedures, • Design of data visualization tools, • Ability to develop the dataflow designs for different and contrasting data types. Skills and Abilities: • Critical thinking, scientific writing and review, • Ability to travel (infrequently), plus travel to conferences • Quantification of spatial and temporal variation of data quality properties and processes • Understanding of micrometeorological processes and ecosystem modeling, • Demonstrated problem-solving and communication skills, and who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges, • One who can create new opportunities within this field and use novel methods, analyses and approaches to tackle continental-scale research. • Desired knowledge base of both instrument hardware and software development. To Apply: go to www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] STREON Scientist - NEON job opportunity - Boulder, CO
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. The Observatory will also operate a long-term experiment - STREON: a chronic nutrient enrichment and predator exclusion experiment that will be operated at ten of the NEON Aquatic sites. Summary: The STREON Scientist will be part of an Aquatic/STREON Team that is responsible for developing a national program to assess physical, chemical, and biological changes in streams and lakes over 30 years. The Team will define measurements, document field and lab methods, train personnel, and perform QA/QC in order to produce high quality data products for the research, education, and decision making community. Specifically, the STREON Scientist is responsible for development, documentation and implementation of detailed sampling designs and analytical protocols of the STREON experiment. This position will require collaboration with the NEON Engineering Team for development and engineering-level documentation of the experiment components (nutrient addition station, in-situ baskets, recirculation chambers, flumes, predator-exclusion system). The position will co-develop and documents sampling designs and audit procedures for aquatic flora and fauna and freshwater chemistry, in conjunction with the Aquatic Team. As STREON is the first Observatory experiment, the STREON Scientist will play a key role in communications with the STREON Technical Working Group and the larger stream community. The STREON Scientist will work with an interdisciplinary team of ecologists, engineers, and other scientists to design, develop, test, and implement statistically valid protocols to produce data products that will enable researchers to investigate the impact of climate change, land-use change, invasive species, and unsustainable water use on freshwater ecosystems of North America. The STREON Scientist is expected to produce reports and publications of NEON procedures and protocols and is encouraged to collaborate with the research community to investigate continental scale ecology. This position requires a broad experience base in freshwater ecology, including experience and knowledge of biogeochemical cycles of streams, isotopic chemistry, biodiversity, foodweb response to nutrient enrichment, the role of microbes in detrital-based foodwebs, and regime and state shift theory in aquatic systems. The ideal candidate will have at least ten years of research and leadership experience beyond the PhD. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Develop and document experiment components of the STREON experiment • Develop a data collection and audit program for the STREON experiment, including experiment sampling protocols for algae, macrophytes, invertebrates, and fish. • Development and implementation of data QA/QC plan. • Develop training program for field crews. • Document the scientific rationale for STREON-related measurements and methods. • Co-develop detailed sampling designs for microbial communities and stream morphology. • Co-coordinate activities of the STREON Technical Working Group. • Collaborate with NEON engineers and scientists to define audit sampling procedures. • Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in independent research and collaborations and attending meetings/conferences. Education: • PhD in stream ecology or related field. Specialization in stream food-web structure and function, stream community ecology, or related ecology with emphasis on biological-chemical-physical linkages of stream ecosystems. • 10+ years experience beyond post-doctoral level in stream ecology or closely related field. Required Experience: • 15+ years research experience in freshwater stream ecology, with emphasis in the role of food-web structure and function, biogeochemistry, and microbial ecology. • Significant field experience working in streams of North America. • Significant experience communicating to
[ECOLOG-L] Data Products Team Lead - NEON Job Opportunity - Boulder, CO
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.), a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, has an immediate opening for a Data Products Team Lead. We are currently designing the NEON project – an observatory comprising more than 60 atmospheric, environmental and biological monitoring sites distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & the Caribbean, monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. The primary outputs of the NEON Observatory are ecological Data Products, including the measurements taken by NEON’s sensor infrastructure and the results of NEON biological samples, and higher-level integrated Data Products based upon the measurements and resulting from complex algorithms. The high level Data Products will translate NEON in situ and remote observations into continental-scale estimates and forecasts using simulation and statistical approaches. The Data Products Team Lead will lead a critical effort within NEON and should be an international leader in environmental science and modeling, and have broad knowledge of ecological modeling and data analysis. Location This position will be based in Boulder CO. Summary The DP Team Lead will be responsible for leading the development and publishing the NEON Observatory High Level Data Product algorithms, including defining, documenting and implementing the algorithms used to convert NEON’s environmental data into information that can be used by the scientific community and the general public. We are looking for a leading quantitative ecologist interested in playing a major role in the future of the field designing computational intensive, tera-scale data analyses within the NEON context. NEON High Level Data Products include biophysical, biogeochemical, geospatial, population/community and genomic/metagenomic variables. NEON data products will be developed by collaborative teams, including extensive interaction with the scientific community. This is an autonomous role, requiring an experienced highly-motivated individual who is flexible and enthusiastic. The person will be responsible for direct management, including technical leadership and supervision, of a group of scientists, and will regularly report to project management and stakeholders, and organize and participate in internal and external reviews. The Data Products Team Lead will report directly to the NEON Project Manager. A Data Products Oversight Committee (chaired by the NEON Director) will provide strategic and implementation advice to the Data Products Team Lead. The person will be encouraged to play a leading role in studies and related publications of new Observatory measurements and Data Products, in support of our mission. We are looking a problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges, and get the job done on-time and within-budget in a high-pressure environment. NEON data cover an extremely broad range of topics including microbial genomes, traditional organism based field measurements, instrumental measurements of atmospheric and aquatic physical and chemical environments, airborne remote sensing and satellite and census based geographic products. Therefore, we seek a scientist with a very broad experience in quantitative environmental science with a profound knowledge of at least one of the major NEON subject areas: modeling/analysis of biodiversity, biogeochemistry, invasive species, infectious disease, ecohydrology, climate and land use. The incumbent will represent NEON nationally and internationally in ecological and eco-informatics, and should be an effective speaker and writer. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Intellectual and operational leadership of the Data Products activity within NEON, and interacting with the broad scientific community regarding the state, improvement, extension and enhancement of the Data Products activity. • Selecting and developing talent to deliver NEON Observatory Data Products, organizing and managing data product team to develop data product algorithms. • Define requirements for, design and implementation of the algorithms supporting the conversion of NEON Observatory measurements into Data Products for the ecological community. • Plan and manage workflow components in support of the NEON project. • Support NEON Observatory operations, and participate in R&D projects to prepare for future programs and projects and Data Products. • Understand and where necessary define administrative and project management processes essential to the Data Products Team, including planning, tracking and reporting to assess project performance. • Interface with NEON science product teams and cyberinfras
[ECOLOG-L] NEON - STREON Scientist job - Revised Skill Requirements
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. The Observatory will also operate a long-term experiment - STREON: a chronic nutrient enrichment and predator exclusion experiment that will be operated at ten of the NEON Aquatic sites. Summary: The STREON Scientist will be part of an Aquatic/STREON Team that is responsible for developing a national program to assess physical, chemical, and biological changes in streams and lakes over 30 years. The Team will define measurements, document field and lab methods, train personnel, and perform QA/QC in order to produce high quality data products for the research, education, and decision making community. Specifically, the STREON Scientist is responsible for development, documentation and implementation of detailed sampling designs and analytical protocols of the STREON experiment. This position will require collaboration with the NEON Engineering Team for development and engineering-level documentation of the experiment components (nutrient addition station, in-situ baskets, recirculation chambers, flumes, predator-exclusion system). The position will co-develop and documents sampling designs and audit procedures for aquatic flora and fauna and freshwater chemistry, in conjunction with the Aquatic Team. As STREON is the first Observatory experiment, the STREON Scientist will play a key role in communications with the STREON Technical Working Group and the larger stream community. The STREON Scientist will work with an interdisciplinary team of ecologists, engineers, and other scientists to design, develop, test, and implement statistically valid protocols to produce data products that will enable researchers to investigate the impact of climate change, land-use change, invasive species, and unsustainable water use on freshwater ecosystems of North America. The STREON Scientist is expected to produce reports and publications of NEON procedures and protocols and is encouraged to collaborate with the research community to investigate continental scale ecology. This position requires a broad experience base in freshwater ecology, including experience and knowledge of biogeochemical cycles of streams, isotopic chemistry, biodiversity, foodweb response to nutrient enrichment, the role of microbes in detrital-based foodwebs, and regime and state shift theory in aquatic systems. The ideal candidate will have at least ten years of research and leadership experience beyond the PhD. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Develop and document experiment components of the STREON experiment • Develop a data collection and audit program for the STREON experiment, including experiment sampling protocols for algae, macrophytes, invertebrates, and fish. • Development and implementation of data QA/QC plan. • Develop training program for field crews. • Document the scientific rationale for STREON-related measurements and methods. • Co-develop detailed sampling designs for microbial communities and stream morphology. • Co-coordinate activities of the STREON Technical Working Group. • Collaborate with NEON engineers and scientists to define audit sampling procedures. • Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in independent research and collaborations and attending meetings/conferences. Education: • PhD in stream ecology or related field. Specialization in stream food-web structure and function, stream community ecology, or related ecology with emphasis on biological-chemical-physical linkages of stream ecosystems. • 5+ years experience beyond post-doctoral level in stream ecology or closely related field. Required Experience: • 5+ years research experience in freshwater stream ecology, with emphasis in the role of food-web structure and function, biogeochemistry, and microbial ecology. • Significant field experience working in streams of North America. • Significant experience communicating to th
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Biogeochemist
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Summary: The Biogeochemist will be responsible for the conceptual basis of the data products and development of the field and lab protocols, QA/QC, calibration and uncertainty tracking for these data products. These data products will be collected across the nation and over time, producing a unique time-space record of how biogeochemistry is changing, and how those changes reflect effects in climate, land use and species composition. The Biogeochemist will work with NEON scientists and other experts to develop appropriate data formats for public data access, coordinate information sharing with relevant communities, work with collaborating laboratories and NEON scientists to facilitate publication of results, and collaborate with other NEON scientists to prepare reports and develop recommendations for best practices, future analyses and data processing. The Biogeochemist will participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in independent research and collaborations and attending meetings and conferences to involve the broadest possible user community. The Biogeochemist will work closely with NEON’s entire science team, including aquatic biogeochemists, flux measurement experts, and NEON’s modeling group. While much of the Biogeochemist’s work will be defining procedures and protocols for data products, many of the applications of these data products will be in complex analyses and models, so a background in biogeochemical modeling is desirable. Education: • PhD in biogeochemistry, ecology, ecosystem science, evolutionary biology, or related field. • Specific knowledge in physiological ecology or ecosystem ecology. Required Experience: • Specific knowledge of biogeochemical analyses including stable isotopes. • 5 years experience or familiarity with planning surveillance schemes, analyzing data and refining approach based on results. Preferred Experience: • Experience working with chemical analyses of plants and/or soils. • Experience analyzing large scale biogeochemical datasets • Experience working with biogeochemical modeling Skills and Abilities: • Skilled at scientific writing and review • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise • Open to undertaking responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects • Ability to work independently and as part of an active science team • Problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges Physical Abilities: • The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. Apply to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Sr. Science Educator - Programs
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Summary: The Senior Science Educator- Programs is responsible for developing web- based educational content and a variety of programs for general public audiences, informal and formal educators, and citizen scientists. The NEON web portal will include content related to specific NEON science initiatives as well as resources for informal and formal K-12 educators, citizen scientists, and decision-makers . In addition, this position has primary responsibility for developing professional development programs for informal and formal K-12 educators, coordinating efforts to integrate NEON data into museum exhibits and programs, and working with the NEON citizen science team to develop resources and activities. As a member of the Education and Public Engagement team at NEON, this position will also help NEON build partnerships with local, regional and national organizations such as museums, teacher associations, and community organizations. The Chief of Education and Public Engagement will supervise this position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Research, develop and/or coordinate content for the NEON web portal, including general educational content related to continental-scale ecology and NEON science questions, activities for educators to use to engage their students with NEON data, and online learning experiences for general public, citizen science and decision-maker audiences. • Develop and prototype programs and activities that can be used by local informal and formal educators with their K-12 students • Develop and coordinate professional development opportunities for informal and formal K-12 educators • Develop and prototype a NEON museum/science center project in collaboration with partner institutions • Under the direction of the NEON Citizen Science Program Director, develop citizen science resources, activities and initiatives • Develop and coordinate workshops, seminars and online courses focused on NEON-related topics for educator, general public, and decision- maker audiences • Build partnerships with local, regional, and national organization and institutions (e.g, museums, professional societies, science/nature centers, national/state parks) to implement NEON programs • Participate in designing and implementing evaluation and assessment strategies for educational resources and programs • Participate in strategic planning activities for Education and Public Engagement division as well as NEON overall • Represent NEON at conferences, meetings and other appropriate events to network, share resources, and establish/maintain partnerships • Participate in other NEON activities as necessary Education: • Master’s degree in natural sciences, environmental science and/or science education with strong ecological background Required Experience: • 5+ years developing science-based programs and activities for general public, educators, citizen scientists and/or decision makers • 3+ years experience developing online educational resources and/or activities • 3+ years experience implementing science-based programs, online and in-person, with general public, educators, citizen scientists and/or decision makers Preferred Experience: • Experience working with and/or developing programs that target populations traditionally underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields • Basic familiarity in using Dreamweaver, InDesign, Photoshop and/or other design software • Ability to use current generation social networking tools (Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, etc.) to engage potential participants in desired activities • Experience using course management systems for online teaching such as Moodle or Blackboard • Experience developing and funding projects through grant proposals to federal agencies (e.g, NSF, NASA, NOAA), foundat
[ECOLOG-L] Sr. Science Educator - Universities
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Summary The Sr. Science Educator - Universities is responsible for developing web- based educational content and a variety of programs for college-level students and faculty. The NEON web portal will include content related to specific NEON science initiatives as well as activities for faculty to use to engage their students in working with NEON data. In addition, this position has primary responsibility for developing a NEON internship program, a research experience for undergraduates program, a graduate- level course focused in continental-scale ecology, workshops and seminars for scientists, and professional development opportunities for college faculty. As a member of the Education and Public Engagement team at NEON, this position will also help NEON build partnerships with universities, federal agencies and professional science organizations. The Chief of Education and Public Engagement will supervise this position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Research, develop and/or coordinate content for the NEON web portal, including general educational content related to continental-scale ecology and NEON science questions, activities for faculty to use to engage their students with NEON data, and online learning experiences for college-level audiences. • Develop and coordinate a program for undergraduate students to engage in research experiences that use NEON data under the direction of college and university faculty from throughout the research community. • Develop and prototype a NEON internship program that targets a diverse student population. • Develop and coordinate a graduate course focused on continental- scale ecology and using NEON resources (i.e., data products and infrastructure). • Develop and coordinate workshops, seminars and online courses focused on NEON-related topics for faculty and college students • Build partnerships with college/university faculty and other stakeholders to design, develop and implement NEON programs • Participate in designing and implementing evaluation and assessment strategies for educational resources and programs • Participate in strategic planning activities for Education and Public Engagement division as well as NEON overall • Represent NEON at conferences, meetings and other appropriate events to network, share resources, and establish/maintain partnerships • Participate in other NEON activities as necessary Education • Ph.D. in ecology, natural sciences, environmental science and/or science education with strong ecological background Required Experience • 5+ years developing science-based programs and activities for college-level students and faculty • 3+ years experience developing online educational resources and/or activities • 3+ years experience implementing science-based programs, online and in-person, with college-level students and faculty Preferred Experience: • Experience working with and/or developing programs that target populations traditionally underrepresented in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields • Basic familiarity in using Dreamweaver, InDesign, Photoshop and/or other design software • Ability to use current generation social networking tools (Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, etc.) to engage potential participants in desired activities • Experience using course management systems for online teaching such as Moodle or Blackboard • Experience developing and funding projects through grant proposals to federal agencies (e.g, NSF, NASA, NOAA), foundations and/or local/regional funding organizations Skills and Abilities: • Proven organizational and time-management skills • Ability to balance self-directed work while being an effective member of an interdisciplinary team • Ability to communicate effectively while working in a team environment • Ab
[ECOLOG-L] 2 job opportunities with NEON in Boulder, CO
2 positions Sr. Science Educator – focused on Universities Sr. Science Educator – focused on Programs for general public Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $430 million dollar observatory project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Summary: The Senior Science Educator- Programs is responsible for developing web- based educational content and a variety of programs for general public audiences, informal and formal educators, and citizen scientists. The Sr. Science Educator - Universities is responsible for developing web- based educational content and a variety of programs for college-level students and faculty. Location: Boulder, CO For full job descriptions on these two positions and to apply go to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - NEON Project Manager/NEON, Inc. Chief Operating Officer
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a $434 million dollar observatory project supported by the National Science Foundation, and dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will grow to 300+ personnel and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. A 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation NEON, Inc. is responsible for the construction and operation of the Observatory. Summary: Reporting to the NEON, Inc. Chief Executive Officer, the NEON Project Manager/Chief Operating Officer (PM/COO) is responsible for the day-to-day management, budgeting, scheduling and reporting responsibilities of the construction project and the transition to Observatory operations, and manages selected corporate function departments, including IT. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Lead the oversight and coordination of the organizational, technical, and administrative development of the NEON construction project, including budgeting and scheduling; assigning staff; allocating resources; assessing risk and its management; coordinating the various components which contribute to the project as a whole to ensure they are being delivered on time; ensuring that deadlines are met; and updating staff and keeping all interested parties in the project informed of progress and any issues which may arise. • Manage the NEON Project on a day-to-day basis to ensure progress towards project goals and schedules, and is responsible for all aspects of the project. • Control and be responsible for all aspects of the NEON construction budget and schedule, acting as a co-principal investigator on the construction and operations awards with the NEON CEO. • Coordinate corporate departmental operations, including functional support of the NEON construction project and Observatory operations, and related corporate activities. • Oversee development and implementation of an operations model for NEON, the review of an operations prototype, and the transition from construction to full operations. • Oversee the production and review of project performance information, and monitor that progress using standard parameters, ensuring cost, schedule and technical performance objectives are met. • Oversee the preparation of internal and external project reviews and reports, investigate and explain variances as needed. • Coordinate and support systems engineering management of interfaces between design, development and construction, and construction and operations. • Direct and manage projects from beginning to end. • Work with project controls to refine the project scope and communicate to the rest of the team. • Effectively communicate project expectations to team members. • Effectively communicate project status with clients. • Drive weekly meetings to verify goals are being met and setting new goals. • Review staffing requirements as needed with project leads. • Identify and resolve issues and conflicts with the project team. • Build, develop and grow any business relationships vital to the success of the project. • Implement best practices and tools for project execution and management. • Manage corporate IT and other operations activities. • Participate in corporate management and strategic planning for NEON, Inc. Education: • Advanced degree in a scientific, engineering, or project management discipline Required Experience: • 8-15 years experience as a Project Manager or planner for a large scale scientific or engineering project. • Familiarity with National Science Foundation MREFC project management and reporting requirements; previous experience with NSF construction projects. • Familiarity with standard project management software (schedule, budget, risk). • Experience in differing cultural worlds, such as business, academia, and/or science. • Experience working closely with senior management and Board of Directors. Skills and Abilities: • Strong leadership, organizational, and communications skills. • Highly proficient i
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Remote Sensing/Ecology - NEON - Boulder, CO
Overview: The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), Inc., is a $430 million dollar NSF-funded project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology and ecological processes. For the next three decades, NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 representative ecoclimatic domains. NEON will use multiple methods for data collection, including an airborne observation platform that will capture spectral and LiDAR data of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and aquatic data. Linking these observations is a stable and extensible cyberinfrastructure that will calibrate, store and publish this raw data, as well as support the production of derived science products that address NEON’s grand challenges. The Observatory will eventually employ up to 300 personnel nationwide and will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Position Summary: As a member of the Data Products Group (DPG), the Staff Scientist will be responsible for contributing to the development and generation of all data products that will be released by NEON to the community. This collaborative effort requires a broadly-trained scientist well-versed in and eager to learn the breadth of NEON scientific efforts, since the DPG works with the NEON’s science, cyberinfrastructure, and education teams, as well as the external community, to define and create the data products and manage their lifecycle. Specifically, this Staff Scientist position will act as the subject-matter expert supporting the development of NEON data products derived from and/or informed by waveform LiDAR and hyperspectral data collected by NEON’s Airborne Observation Platform (AOP). This position, within the Data Products Group, will work closely with the members of the AOP team. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Develop novel algorithms for processing LiDAR and hyperspectral data and producing related data products, in support of developing inferences related to ecological science; • Contribute to developing the science rationale for NEON data products, prototyping algorithms for their generation, and engaging all stakeholders in vetting the produced materials. The candidate will help to define NEON’s strategy to scale ecological data across multiple temporal and spatial scales in support of continental-scale ecological science; • Engage the user community through meetings, workshops, and working groups, to ensure the utility and veracity of NEON data products. Education: • PhD, ScD, or equivalent degree in atmospheric science, biogeochemistry, ecology, physics, or related fields is required. • Postdoctoral experience is preferred, but not required Required Experience: • Application of remote sensing theory to biological and/or physical systems • Expertise with common software packages (e.g., IDL/ENVI) • Experience building novel algorithms in support of LiDAR and/or hyperspectral data processing. • Experience integrating remote sensing data with a variety of ground-based data, including measurements of biophysical variables and observations of flora and fauna. • Familiarity with a variety of remote sensing platforms (e.g. MODIS, AVIRIS, Landsat) Preferred Experience: • Familiarity with data processing workflows in a production environment • Programming & analysis software experience (C/C++, Java, Python, MATLAB, IDL, R, etc.) • Teaching experience Skills and Abilities: • Skilled at scientific writing and review • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise • Open to undertaking responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects • Ability to work independently and as part of an active science team • Problem solver who can successfully apply experience, judgment, and creativity to both short- and long-term challenges, independently and within a larger team Apply to: www.neoninc.org NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] Job Opportunity - Field Validation Specialist - NEON - Boulder, CO
Overview The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. For the next three decades NEON will collect a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. NEON will use cutting edge technology including an airborne observation platform that will capture images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who will observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. A leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory will be the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. Term Appointment: Full-time one year term position Summary The technicians will validate the NEON terrestrial study design, and facilitate a significant plot validation campaign from NEON headquarters and the field. Activities will include data preparation, image analysis in a geospatial environment, data management, organizational logistics, and processing and analysis of data. Field work will require travel and efforts to ground-truth abiotic and biotic characterizations of specific sites across a variety of landscapes. Work at these field sites may include long workdays, sometimes under harsh environmental conditions. Typically, travel will occur during the workweek in 10 days up to 3 week blocks, but at times may include travel over weekends. Location Boulder, CO. Frequent travel to filed sites is anticipated. Field work will include sites in Virginia, Florida, Puerto Rico, Kansas, Tennessee, North Dakota, Texas, Utah, Arizona, California, and Alaska. Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Work as a member of a team to evaluate and validate the NEON study design for long-term monitoring of terrestrial organisms • Acquire and analyze digital imagery in a geospatial environment • Visit potential sample locations in the field at NEON study sites to ground-truth abiotic and biotic characterizations of specific sites across a variety of landscapes • Navigate a variety of wilderness and managed landscapes with safety, precision, and efficiency • Manage spatially-explicit photographs and data, including the transfer of data to and from a GPS unit to a computer • Organize material, workflows, logistics, and data for field validation • Extensive travel – approximately 40% of time will be spent traveling Required Experience • High School Diploma • Valid driver’s license – must be 21 to drive • Must be US Citizen • Proof of auto insurance • Extensive experience hiking in remote wilderness landscapes (maps, compass, GPS) away from roads and trails • Experience managing and working with large datasets • Experience working with Microsoft office products including Word & Excel • Experience working with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Preferred Experience • BS degree (or equivalent in work experience) in Ecology, Geography, or Biology or another related field; work towards a graduate degree highly desirable. • Experience as a field technician • Experience leading hikes, or assisting nature societies with seasonal nature observations • Emergency response/first aid training such as wilderness first aid or wilderness first responder • Wildlife safety training course • Leadership role in an extended field data collection effort • Proven history of organizing spatial and site-specific information • Experience working with vegetation maps and other ecological data • Experience with field validation or accuracy assessment of ecological models, soil, and vegetation maps • Experience working with GPS Pathfinder Office software • Experience managing spatial datasets in geographic information system (GIS) environments • Experience working with databases and/or geodatabases • Experience with interpretation of aerial photographs and geospatial digital imagery Skills and Abilities • Ability to follow instructions, a strong work ethic, and enthusiasm • Able to supply personal gear (adequate clothing and boots, etc.) • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Attention to detail and accuracy • Ability to successfully work through problems with minimal supervision • Strong communication and interpersonal skills • Ability to work independently and as a member of an active science team • Proven ability to work well as a member of team in challenging situations and environments Physical Abilities •
[ECOLOG-L] NEON Job Opening Plant Ecologist
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.) is a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. Currently under design is the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 environmental and biological monitoring locations distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & Puerto Rico. These observations and experiments will be monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. Responsibilities •Develop and oversee research to track diversity, phenology, demography, and productivity of plant communities. •Develop QA/QC protocols for field sampling and data processing •Develop the scientific rationale for scientific measurements and methods •Develop detailed sampling designs of plant communities for all of the 60 NEON sampling sites. •Oversee changes to the NEON design with the evolution of analyses used on NEON samples •Develop data products using NEON data •Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in independent research and collaborations Education/Experience •PhD in ecology, evolution, or related field •5 years research experience in plant ecology, including extensive field experience •Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise Specialized Skills •Scientific writing and review •Proficiency in analyses that correlate biological data with abiotic variables and ability to perform such analyses within a geospatial framework •Ability to work independently, but as part of an active Science team •Strong communication and interpersonal skills •Undertake responsibilities beyond those associated with individual research projects •The candidate may be exposed to conditions in the field, and therefore must be able to traverse uneven ground such as dirt banks, stream beds, and shallow ponds carrying equipment and materials up to 40 lbs. TO APPLY: •Please send your cover letter and CV/resume to care...@neoninc.org with Plant Ecologist in the subject line. •NEON Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, Minorities, Veterans and Disabled Persons are encouraged to apply.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON, Inc. and Sandia National Labs DNA Barcode Evaluation Postdoc
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON, Inc.), a nonprofit science corporation dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. We are currently planning the NEON project - an observatory comprising more than 60 atmospheric, environmental and biological monitoring experiments distributed throughout twenty domains across the United States, Hawaii, Alaska & the Caribbean, monitored and controlled in real-time from our headquarters in Boulder, Colorado. A leading-edge flexible cyberinfrastructure is being designed to support current and future needs of the Observatory. Summary: This NEON funded project is part of a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary team that is focused on the development of DNA barcode libraries to aid in species identification and developing technology for DNA analysis in the field. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 1.Species identification through traditional DNA barcoding. 2.Development of field instrumentation for DNA preparation and analysis. Scope: •The candidate will be hired by the FSU Manager, NEON, Inc. Boulder, CO. However, the candidate will predominantly work on site at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico under the supervision of Dr. Susan Brozik. Preferred Qualifications: •Experience in developing electrode arrays and microfluidcs for automated, field DNA analysis. •Experience in microelectronic or MEMS-based sensors, successful proposal development, and project leadership. Education: •Ph.D. in engineering, biology or a related field Experience: •Experience in electrochemical sensors, bio-electrochemical measurements, and DNA sequencing. •Research experience in electrochemistry, DNA assay and detection development, the design of electrochemical sensors, and their application to biological problems •A history of creative research, as evidenced by a strong publication record Skills and Abilities: •Strong written and verbal communication skills are expected. Physical Requirements: •Long periods of sitting and standing •Regularly reaches and grasps with arms and hands •Long periods of sitting and standing •Regularly reaches and grasps with arms and hands •Regularly stoops and bends •Regularly uses fine motor skills and manipulates small instruments while viewing through a microscope •Work involves possible exposure to malodorous vapors, acids, bases, detergents, mutagens, teratogens, carcinogens, flammables and solvents •Work involves possible exposure to ultraviolet, alpha, beta and gamma radiation emitters TO APPLY: Please send your cover letter, CV/resume and names of three references to care...@neoninc.org with DNA Barcode Evaluation Postdoc in the subject line. NEON Inc. and Sandia National Laboratories are Equal Opportunity Employers M/F/D/V. This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE)-granted security clearance and U.S. citizenship. Employee eligibility for clearance processing will be required at the time of hire. If you hold dual citizenship and you accept a job offer for a position that requires a DOE-granted security clearance, you may be asked by DOE to renounce your foreign citizenship and retain only your U.S. citizenship.
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory - Field Ecologist II job - Arizona
Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. The Field Ecologist II is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing, and will be the technical lead for performing routine maintenance and inventory management on all terrestrial sampling equipment. The Field Ecologist II will provide guidance to temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory. Instrumentation (tower) emphasis: • Test, troubleshoot and operate instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. • Assist the NEON Project Systems Engineering Product Team with instrument installation and testing (approximately the first 6 months). • Record activities, completed work and trouble tickets according to Field Operations protocol. Location: Tuscon, AZ Status: Fulltime Required: o Bachelor’s Degree in ecology, environmental sciences or related scientific discipline. o Three (3) or more years’ of related experience. To see full job description and to apply go to: http://www.neonscience.org/ Must have permanent authorization for US employment. Battelle Ecology, Inc. will not provide any kind of visa sponsorship. Employment is contingent on background screen, drug screen, motor vehicle records check and physical. Must possess a current and valid State issued driver’s license with insurable Department of Motor vehicle record (parking violations, minor driving offenses excluded) as determined by Battelle Ecology Inc.’s insurance provider. This position offers competitive total rewards including 401(k), health, vision and dental insurance, paid time off and the opportunity to work at an organization with a great mission. Battelle Ecology, Inc. provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, or disability. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle Ecology, Inc.
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory - Field Ecologist I - Tennessee
Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. We are currently recruiting for Field Ecologist I - Aquatics - Oak Ridge, TN Domain. The Field Ecologist I is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing. Seasonal field sampling is conducted with the assistance of temporary field crews under the guidance of the Field Ecologist. Limnology emphasis: • Monitor and sample aquatic sites for water quality, biological indicators, physical properties of site (e.g. gaging streams, geomorphic mapping, etc.), and leading field crews to perform the aforementioned items. • Test, troubleshoot and operate instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain aquatic sensors, gear and equipment. • Assist the NEON Project Systems Engineering Product Team with instrument installation and testing (approximately the first 6 months). • Perform aquatic vegetation diversity and primary productivity measurements. • Sample for aquatic invertebrate and fish diversity and abundance. Required: o Bachelor’s degree in ecology, environmental sciences or related scientific discipline. o One (1) or more years’ of related experience. To see the full job description and to apply go to: http://www.neonscience.org/. Must have permanent authorization for US employment. Battelle Ecology, Inc. will not provide any kind of visa sponsorship. Employment is contingent on background screen, drug screen, motor vehicle records check and physical. Must possess a current and valid State issued driver’s license with insurable Department of Motor vehicle record (parking violations, minor driving offenses excluded) as determined by Battelle Ecology Inc.’s insurance provider. This position offers competitive total rewards including 401(k), health, vision and dental insurance, paid time off and the opportunity to work at an organization with a great mission. Battelle Ecology, Inc. provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, or disability. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle Ecology, Inc.
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory - Field Ecologist II - Alabama
Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY Field Ecologists reports to the Field Operations Manager. • Field Ecologist II - The Field Ecologist II is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing, and will be the technical lead for performing routine maintenance and inventory management on all terrestrial sampling equipment. The Field Ecologist II will provide guidance to temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory. LOCATION The NEON Domain 8 support facility is based in Tuscaloosa, home to the University of Alabama. This relatively small town has all the atmosphere, sports and entertainment options you would expect to find as the host of a top university. Birmingham is less than an hour’s drive away, with Atlanta and New Orleans both a four-hour drive away, making weekend trips to these great cities very doable. Tuscaloosa receives an abundance of sunlight with short moderate winters, while summers are very hot, humid, long and punctuated by inland storms and tropical events. High levels of heat and moisture can also produce volatile weather patterns, such as convective storms which generate lightning, often resulting in wildfires. Our Core Site in the Oakmulgee District of the Talladega National Forest is characterized as a fire dependent, longleaf pine ecosystem. The role of riverine flooding is also fundamental to all our seasonal monitoring and sampling efforts which are conducted directly within the swamps and bottomland hardwood forests. The Black Warrior and Tombigbee River watersheds are the primary aquatic focus for this domain. While conducting all terrestrial and aquatic sampling, teams consistently travel into three diverse landscapes with frequent overnight stays. Days and work-weeks are long, with the majority of activities conducted outside but generally balanced with laboratory time. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Botany emphasis: • Lead, perform and coordinate plant phenology, diversity, biogeochemistry and productivity measurements. • Identify local flora to species using techniques including: general observation, field references, dichotomous key, comparison with identified specimens, or other identification methods. Local species identification skills are used to complete activities such as plant diversity observations, classification of phenological stages of local flora, and sorting of plants and debris into functional group or category. • Collect and process samples for activities such as clip harvest, biomass, canopy foliage and leaf area index measurements as well as vegetation structure measurements. • Map and measure structural metrics of free-standing woody stems. General duties include: • Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols. • Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment. • Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH meter, microscope, and muffle furnace). • Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel. • Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel. • Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and marking plots. • Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office. • Follow NEON Project safety and Field Operations policy and procedures. Field activities may include: • Follow established, standardized field protocols for sample collection and handling; r
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory - Seasonal Techs needed for UT, CA, FL
Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manage and operate the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology. We are currently seeking Temporary Field Technicians for the following locations. Salt Lake City, UT – term beginning of June – end of Sept Gainesville, FL – term May/June – Nov/Dec Fresno, CA – term end of May – end of Oct JOB SUMMARY Temporary Field Technicians perform seasonal and periodic sampling of physical, chemical and biological data at one (1)-five (5) field sites, while exercising good judgement and decision-making abilities to interpret protocol requirements. Temporary Field Technicians are assigned an area of primary responsibility within the scope of data collection: botany, entomology, mammalogy (except Puerto Rico and Hawaii), or limnology (except Hawaii). Field observations and collection are conducted using approximately 30 different protocols and multiple Standard Operating Procedures with varying schedule requirements based on local ecosystem and current field conditions. Daily and weekly work schedules will fluctuate. Workdays can be up to twelve hours long and may be split with both morning and evening work, with work, at times, beginning at dawn and going through to dusk. Workweeks can include weekends and occasionally may be up to 12 consecutive days. Individuals are responsible for their own housing and transportation to primary work location, and must have permanent authorization for US employment. To see full job description for each of these positions and to apply go to: www.neonscience.org Must have permanent authorization for US employment. Battelle Ecology, Inc. will not provide any kind of visa sponsorship. Employment is contingent on background screen, drug screen, motor vehicle records check and physical. Must possess a current and valid state issued driver’s license with insurable Department of Motor Vehicle Record (parking violations, minor driving offenses excluded) as determined by BEI’s insurance provider. Battelle Ecology, Inc. provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, or disability. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle Ecology, Inc.
[ECOLOG-L] Battelle - NEON Project - Domain Manager Hawaii job opportunity
Battelle is guided by a founding mission. We invest our knowledge, talents and resources, helping our customers achieve their most important goals. We apply scientific rigor and creativity, succeeding where others may fail and we invest in our communities, making the world better for generations to come. All of us share a common purpose: to solve the greatest challenges of today and tomorrow. Our 22,000 employees work at the forefront of scientific innovation to tackle critical challenges in security, human health, manufacturing, energy and environmental management. Battelle’s work is grounded in the belief that science, technology and a passion for excellence can make industries more competitive and the world a better place. The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) Program is currently seeking a Field Operations Manager. This position is located in Hilo, HI and manages NEON operations at Pu'u Maka'ala Natural Area Reserve.. Occasional travel outside the region will be required. NEON is a continental-scale ecological observation facility sponsored by the National Science Foundation that gathers and synthesizes data on the impacts of climate change, land use change and invasive species on natural resources and biodiversity. The observatory is designed to collect high-quality, standardized data from field sites across the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. JOB DESCRIPTION This position manages a broad scope of scientific inquiry, managing a multi-disciplinary team of field scientists who collect measurements related to botany, invertebrates, soils, micrometeorology, and eddy flux at one NEON site in Domain 20 - Hawaii (Pacific Tropical). MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES • Plan, schedule, conduct and ensure accurate execution, within NEON scientific parameters and annual budget, of all maintenance, repair and field sampling activities for 1 NEON field site. o Coordination for instrument maintenance is required for approximately 40 different sensors, data acquisition system, power distribution system and supporting infrastructure (i.e. tower, instrument hut, boardwalks). o Coordination for field observations and collection are conducted using approximately 15 different protocols and multiple SOP’s with varying schedule requirements based on local ecosystem and current field conditions. • Recruit, train and manage all regular and temporary personnel supporting field office, lab and field site tasks. • Act as liaison between regional stakeholders, including educational and research organizations, local property owners and the general public and NEON Headquarters. • Communicate NEON status and activities, local activities and partnerships, and regional issues and concerns to appropriate regional stakeholders and NEON staff. Work with regional stakeholders to resolve issues or concerns. • Plan and participate in local/regional community engagement activities (i.e. local/regional conferences or meetings, invited talks). • Ensure compliance with NEON safety policy and procedures. • Ensure appropriate equipment, materials and supplies are available to support required field activities. Ensure accuracy and efficient use of funds within assigned region. THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • Bachelors’ Degree in life science field. • 5 years previous experience supervising personnel including participating in hiring, training, and evaluating performance. • Previous experience developing and managing budgets and schedules. • Previous experience performing ecology related lab and field activities and/or maintaining scientific instrumentation (e.g. meteorological and aquatic sensors). • Previous experience communicating with external stakeholders such as customers, funding agencies, regulatory agencies, etc. • Requires critical human relation skills to understand, select, develop and motivate others. • Permanent U.S. Work Authorization required THE FOLLOWING IS DESIRED, BUT NOT REQUIRED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • Previous experience managing a technical field operations group. • Graduate study in biology, ecology, environmental science or related field. • Previous experience leading or participating in outdoor activities in remote areas. Apply at: https://performancemanager8.successfactors.com/sfcareer/jobreqcareer? jobId=65202&company=battelle&username= Or you can go to Battelle.org BENEFITS Battelle’s competitive benefits program includes comprehensive medical and dental care, matching 401K, paid time off, flexible spending accounts, disability coverage, and other benefits that help provide financial protection for you and your family. “Battelle provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, w
[ECOLOG-L] NEON Project - Field Ecologist II Instrumentation - Jamestown, North Dakota
Field Ecologist II Instrumentation COMPANY OVERVIEW Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY Field Ecologists reports to the Field Operations Manager. • Field Ecologist II (Sr. Technician C6047B) - The Field Ecologist II is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing, and will be the technical lead for performing routine maintenance and inventory management on all terrestrial sampling equipment. The Field Ecologist II will provide guidance to temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory. LOCATION The NEON Project’s Domain 09 encompasses all of North Dakota, and parts of South Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, and Montana. We work in central North Dakota, near Jamestown and in Mandan. The topography is rolling prairie pothole and Missouri River breaks. This area is the breeding ground and migration corridor for many species of waterfowl, as well as shorebirds and grassland nesting birds. White tailed deer are common, and it is possible to see moose, badger, beaver, fox and coyote. The climate is continental, meaning the summers are often quite warm with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and winters are very cold and windy. Mosquitoes and ticks are numerous and omnipresent. The domain office is located in Jamestown, North Dakota. Jamestown is a small town with access to fishing, hiking and biking trails and terrific birding opportunities. Fargo and Bismarck are larger cities both an hour and a half drive. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Instrumentation (tower) emphasis: • Test, troubleshoot and operate instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. • Assist the NEON Project Systems Engineering Product Team with instrument installation and testing (approximately the first 6 months). • Record activities, completed work and trouble tickets according to Field Operations protocol. General duties include: • Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols. • Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment. • Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH meter, microscope, and muffle furnace). • Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel. • Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel. • Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and marking plots. • Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office. • Follow NEON Project safety and Field Operations policy and procedures. Field activities may include: • Follow established, standardized field protocols for sample collection and handling; record and verify accuracy of data from sample collections; process samples in the laboratory; send samples to external analytical labs. Train and lead field crews performing the aforementioned items. • Perform other field sampling activities as assigned including: ground beetle collection (pitfall trapping), mosquito collection (CO2 light traps, tick collection (dragging and flagging) and soil core collection. • Test, troubleshoot and operate tower, soil and aquatic instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. • Monitor and sample aquatic sites
[ECOLOG-L] NEON Operations Project Manager - job opportunity
Battelle operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB DESCRIPTION: The NEON Operations Project Manager will serve as part of the Battelle leadership team responsible for the successful day-to-day performance/operation of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). This position will support the NEON Observatory Director/Chief Scientist regarding execution and management of NEON Operations project scope, cost and schedule performance. The NEON Operations Project Manager will oversee a complex, multi-year project in a requiring coordination of geographically dispersed teams, operation of a continental network of sensor with associated communications systems, and provisioning of observatory data through a Cyber infrastructure with a public facing data portal. Collaboration will be required in the performance of these functions with the NEON Chief Scientist/Observatory Director, who is responsible for leading and setting the Observatory direction through close coordination with the ecological science community and ensuring that the Observatory fulfills its scientific and educational mission. This will include strategic project planning consistent with client (NSF) and the Ecological research community’s expectations for operations, development and implementation of project execution plans, and management of project cost, schedule and performance. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: • Serves as a member of the Battelle leadership team to advocate, support, and ensure the scientific and educational objectives of the Observatory, through efficient and responsive Operations management and execution of the Observatory Collections plan, are being met. • Represents Battelle in engagements with NSF, other Federal Agencies, Congress and other key external stakeholders in order to communicate status and other details concerning Observatory Operations. • Directs utilization of Battelle policies, processes and procedures to collect and review financial and performance information to determine NEON Operations project status, identify significant variances, and initiate corrective actions to achieve project objectives. • Ensures key deliverables (monthly and annual reports, project execution plan, CONOPS, etc) are developed, completed and submitted to the client in accordance with required submittal dates. • Assesses impacts of scope, schedule and budget change requests and ensures that the requisite action is taken. Ensures that the NEON Operations project is maintained within the scope, budget and schedule of the baseline agreement and changes the baseline when appropriate client-directed changes are approved. • Proactively communicates with clients to ensure they are an integral part of the NEON Operations project for clarification of requirements and regular assessment of implementation progress. Builds client relationships to sustain and expand business opportunities. Influences client opinion on future project direction. Influences customer’s plans and priorities as related to the project. Identifies value opportunities for Battelle with the client and establishes opportunity development capture plans. Positions Battelle to win all such opportunities. • Actively contributes to business development and proposal activities including the formulation of win and bid strategies. Establishes review procedures to ensure that proposed technical work can be accomplished as described within proposed cost, time and quality constraints. Coordinates the efforts of the proposal team to formulate an offering that persuasively presents the technical and management approach that meets the client needs and documents the value created. • Guides project and task managers and staff in using configuration management and control processes to manage NEON Operations project change. Establishes
[ECOLOG-L] Battelle - NEON Project - Airborne Imaging Spectrometer Calibration Scientist
Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading-edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. LOCATION: Boulder, CO JOB SUMMARY The Remote Sensing Team within NEON operates three Airborne Observation Platform (AOP) payloads as an integral part of the observatory infrastructure. Each payload consists of advanced remote sensing instrumentation, including a high-fidelity imaging spectrometer, a waveform-LiDAR and a high-resolution digital camera, in order to provide long-term, quantitative information on land use, vegetation structure and canopy chemistry over the NEON sites locations and other sites of opportunity. The Remote Sensing Team is currently seeking a calibration scientist who will be responsible for the instrument calibration and data quality assessment of three airborne NEON Imaging Spectrometer (NIS) systems. The position is located in Boulder, CO, and will report to the Remote Sensing Team Lead. The Calibration Scientist will lead the laboratory- based radiometric and spectral calibration, and field-based calibration validation of the NIS systems. This includes quantifying the calibration uncertainty and developing improvements to the calibration equipment and protocols. The Calibration Scientist will also work closely with the Remote Sensing Science Team to refine procedures for verifying the quality of Level-0 NIS data, develop novel algorithms to support the calibration and production of NIS data products, and assist in routine processing of NIS data products. The successful candidate will produce reports and publications of NEON designs, procedures, and protocols and is highly encouraged to collaborate with NEON staff and the research community in the application of airborne remote sensing to continental-scale ecology. The ideal candidate should have considerable knowledge and experience with the fundamental principles and calibration of airborne and/or spaceborne hyperspectral imaging systems. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Perform the spectral and radiometric calibration of three airborne hyperspectral imaging systems that were built by NASA JPL and are equivalent to the AVIRIS-NextGen spectrometers. • Conduct calibration validation fieldwork. • Collaborate with calibration experts to quantify the uncertainty of the current calibration protocols, and subsequently develop improvements to the calibration methodology. • Define, procure, and develop specialized equipment for spectral and radiometric calibration. • Support continued development of collection protocols of calibration data and lead algorithmic enhancements for improving quality of calibration results. • Assess the quality of NIS-derived data products and contribute to their improvement. • Collaborate with the Remote Sensing Systems Team to ensure NIS functionality and readiness ahead of flight campaigns. • Collaborate with the Remote Sensing Science Team to generate data products derived from multiple sensors. • Collaborate with the Flight Operations Team to direct NIS flight calibration activities and advise on flight collection standards and protocols. • Maintain the calibration equipment in a clean and organized fashion. • Generate internal NEON documents describing the calibration procedures and uncertainty. • Participate in routine processing of NIS data. • Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in collaborations with the external research community and attending meetings/conferences. REQUIRED: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS • Bachelor’s Degree in optics, physics, engineering, or equimalent discipline and minimum 5 years related experience. OR • Master’s Degree in optics, physics, engineering, or equimalent discipline and minimum 2 years related experience. OR • PhD Degree
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory - Senior Field Ecologist - Alaska
Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY Field Ecologists reports to the Field Operations Manager. • Senior Field Ecologist - The Senior Field Ecologist is the shift lead performing and supervising seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing, and will have primary responsibility for coordinating sampling and laboratory activities at terrestrial sampling sites. The Senior Field Ecologist will have additional roles and responsibilities assisting the Field Operations Manager with management of the Domain Support Facility, hiring and training seasonal field staff, and acting as manager in the absence of the Field Operations Manager. Instrumentation (tower) emphasis: • Test, troubleshoot and operate instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. • Record activities, completed work and trouble tickets according to Field Operations protocol. General duties include: • Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols. • Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment. • Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH meter, microscope, and muffle furnace). • Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel. • Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel. • Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and marking plots. • Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office. • Follow NEON Project safety and Field Operations policy and procedures. Field activities may include: • Follow established, standardized field protocols for sample collection and handling; record and verify accuracy of data from sample collections; process samples in the laboratory; send samples to external analytical labs. Train and lead field crews performing the aforementioned items. • Perform other field sampling activities as assigned including: ground beetle collection (pitfall trapping), mosquito collection (CO2 light traps, tick collection (dragging and flagging) and soil core collection. • Test, troubleshoot and operate tower, soil and aquatic instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. • Monitor and sample aquatic sites for water quality, biological indicators and physical properties of site (e.g. gaging streams, geomorphic mapping). Physical demands: The work is physical and involves walking, hiking, prolonged standing, walking and bending. Heavy items (e.g. equipment and packs up to 40 pounds) must be lifted and carried on a routine basis. Work environment: Fieldwork includes exposure to extreme weather conditions and terrain, pesticides, poisonous plants, biting insects, and wild animals. Tower work involves performing work on instrument towers ranging in height from 24 feet to 300 feet, which will include ascending and descending multiple flights of stairs. REQUIRED: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS The NEON Project will be selecting a Field Ecologist I, II or Senior Field Ecologist. Equivalent education and experience may be considered. • Senior Field Ecologist o Bachelor’s Degree in ecology, environmental sciences or related scientific discipline. o Five (5) or more years’ related experience. o Pr
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory - Asst. Domain Manager - Montana
Battelle operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY The NEON Field Operations Assistant Manager is responsible for supervision of personnel and activities coordinated from the assigned field office. Field office activities include (1) preventative and corrective maintenance of scientific instrumentation, field infrastructure and equipment, office and laboratory equipment, (2) field observations, (3) specimen collection, handling, preparation and shipment according to NEON scientific protocols. Performs personnel management that includes (1) selecting, (2) training, (3) scheduling, and (4) performance management for 2 regular full-time field technicians and 8-12 seasonal field technicians according to Battelle/NEON Policies and Procedures under the supervision of the Field Operations Manager. LOCATION The Domain 12/15 Assistant Manager Field Operations primary work location is in Bozeman, MT. This position supports sites in the Northern Rockies Domain primarily as well as assisting in overseeing sites in the Great Basin Domain. The Northern Rockies site is located in Yellowstone National Park and the Great Basin sites are located in Utah. This position will be based out of Bozeman, MT with occasional travel to Utah. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Supervise regular and seasonal field personnel supporting field office, lab and collection sites. • Perform and oversee the recruitment and training of regular and seasonal field personnel as assigned within a domain. • Ensure that safety policies, procedures, and practices are followed within their area of authority. • Reinforce positive attitudes toward safety and sets the example for staff by enabling compliance with safety requirements. • Coordinate logistics and schedules, within NEON scientific parameters, for all maintenance, repair and field activities. • Perform and oversee maintenance, repair and field activities according to NEON scientific protocols for assigned sites within a domain. • Assist with administering the operation of the office and laboratory. Assists in overseeing maintenance of office and lab areas including lab equipment and coordinates necessary repair or replacement. • Act as liaison between regional stakeholders, including educational and research organizations, local property owners and the general public and Battelle. • Communicate NEON status and activities, local activities and partnerships, and regional issues and concerns to appropriate regional stakeholders and Battelle staff. Work with Manager of Field Operations and regional stakeholders to resolve issues or concerns. • Assist in the preparation of annual operating budget for assigned office and ensures NEON funds are used appropriately and within budget in collaboration with the Manager of Field Operations. • Record activities and completed work according to protocol. • Perform field assignments in a variety of conditions (e.g., weather, terrain, diverse assigned biomes). • May carry, move and lift field supplies (pack weighing up to 40 lbs.) to assigned field site (diverse and uneven terrain). • Follow and ensure all policies and procedures including administrative, safety, and financial requirements for field station operations are followed. REQUIRED: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS • Bachelor’s Degree biology, ecology, environmental science or related field. Equivalent education and work experience may be considered. • Eight (8) or more years’ of related experience. • Leadership: o Effective leadership skills and the ability to motivate others. o Effective problem solving skills and the ability to determine and act on changing priorities in a fast paced dynamic environment. o Ability to organize and execute multiple activities and priorities.
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory - Field Ecologist II - California
Battelle manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. LOCATION The NEON Project's Domain 17-CA primary work location is in Fresno, CA. This position supports sites in the Pacific Southwest Domain, which covers most of CA. Pacific Southwest sites are located at the San Joaquin Experimental Range and on the High Sierra Ranger District of the Sierra National Forest near Fresno, CA. These sites are distributed along an elevation gradient from the Sierra foothills to about 9000’ in the Sierras. Vegetation ranges from oak savannah and scrub at the lower elevations, coniferous forest (including giant Sequoias) and granite domes in the mid to upper elevations, and alpine vegetation and barren peaks at the highest elevations. The office is located less than 3 hours from Yosemite and Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Parks, the Pacific Coast, and the San Francisco area. JOB SUMMARY Field Ecologists reports to the Field Operations Manager. • Field Ecologist II - The Field Ecologist II is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing, and will be the technical lead for performing routine maintenance and inventory management on all terrestrial sampling equipment. The Field Ecologist II will provide guidance to temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Botany emphasis: • Lead, perform and coordinate plant phenology, diversity, biogeochemistry and productivity measurements. • Identify local flora to species using techniques including: general observation, field references, dichotomous key, comparison with identified specimens, or other identification methods. Local species identification skills are used to complete activities such as plant diversity observations, classification of phenological stages of local flora, and sorting of plants and debris into functional group or category. • Collect and process samples for activities such as clip harvest, biomass, canopy foliage and leaf area index measurements as well as vegetation structure measurements. • Map and measure structural metrics of free-standing woody stems. General duties include: • Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols. • Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment. • Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH meter, microscope, and muffle furnace). • Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel. • Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel. • Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and marking plots. • Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office. • Follow NEON Project safety and Field Operations policy and procedures. Field activities may include: • Follow established, standardized field protocols for sample collection and handling; record and verify accuracy of data from sample collections; process samples in the laboratory; send samples to external analytical labs. Train and lead field crews performing the aforementioned items. • Perform other field sampling activities as assigned including: ground beetle collection (pitfall trapping), mosquito collection (CO2 light traps, tick collection (dragging and flagging) and soil core collection. • Test, troubleshoot and operate tower, soil and aquatic instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and ins
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory - Aquatic Instrumentation Scientist
Battelle manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. We are currently seeking Aquatic Instrumentation Scientist. This position is located in Boulder, CO. POSITION SUMMARY: The Aquatic Instrumentation Scientist will be part of an Aquatic Team that is responsible for operating, maintaining, and improving a national program to assess physical, chemical, and biological changes in lakes, rivers, and streams over 30 years. The Team currently documents field and lab methods, maintains and improves algorithms for data QA/QC and uncertainty estimates, and trains personnel in order to produce high quality data products for the research, education, and decision-making community. Specifically, the Aquatic Instrumentation Scientist will work with an interdisciplinary team of ecologists, engineers, and other scientists to develop, test, and implement statistically valid quality control and assurance procedures for data products that will enable researchers to investigate the impact of climate change, land-use change, invasive species, and unsustainable water use on freshwater ecosystems of North America. The Aquatic Instrumentation Scientist is responsible for evaluating, updating, and maintaining detailed sampling designs and analytical protocols for the aquatic instrumented subsystem (AIS) of the NEON project. This position will require collaboration with the NEON Engineering Team for development of engineering-level documentation of the AIS components, including AIS infrastructure redesign efforts. The position will develop data analysis packages to monitor, evaluate and test sensor data across a nationally distributed sensor network, and update algorithm theoretical basis documents, command, configuration, and control documents for sensor installations, and update the scientific rationale for the NEON AIS, as needed. The Staff Scientist will define and improve approaches for quantifying and tracking uncertainty, calculating error budgets, and developing models for trend detection. The position will develop, document, and analyze data for data comparison, availability, and validation tests for NEON AIS data products. Ultimately, the position will develop automated procedures for detecting fluctuations or erratic readings that may indicate a problem due to sensor installation or field conditions that require attention. This position will play a key role in communications with the aquatic Technical Working Groups and the larger aquatic science community. In collaboration with the Aquatic Sciences Manager, this position will help identify and propose new initiatives to further Battelle business opportunities. This position requires a broad experience base in freshwater ecology, with a specific focus on experience and knowledge of monitoring instrumentation in aquatic systems. Further, experience in programming languages such as R or Python is strongly preferred. The ideal candidate will have at least five years of research experience. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: • Lead the development and implementation of data QA/QC plans and algorithms for the Aquatic Instrumented Subsystem (AIS). Code data processing and testing procedures and write sensor-related quality assurance and algorithm basis documents. • Update the command, configuration, and control documents for aquatic sensors and data generating devices. • Assist in training program for field based crews for instrumentation installation, maintenance and procedure plans, and optimization. • Document and support the scientific rationale for the NEON AIS, validate decisions against that design. • Participates in the larger NEON science community (e.g., attending conferences and working groups), supporting the active engagement between the Observatory and the broader science community to promote scientific advancements in continental- scale eco
[ECOLOG-L] Hydrologist Job Opportunity with the National Ecological Observatory Network
Hydrologist Location: Boulder, CO, US COMPANY OVERVIEW Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEONTM)project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY The hydrologist will manage the maintenance and implementation of detailed observational sampling designs and analytical protocols for the hydrologic and geomorphologic data products, including stream discharge dynamics and stream morphology maps. Additional responsibilities will include: overseeing construction of shallow, subsurface water quality monitoring wells (e.g. groundwater wells), designed to define and track regional flowpaths and water quality at NEON Aquatic site, as well as developing and documenting sensor related data processing (e.g. sensor drift statistics; data QA, gap-filling and correction). The Hydrologist will work with an interdisciplinary team of ecologists, mechanical and electrical engineers, software developers, and other scientists to design, develop, test, and implement statistically valid protocols to produce data products that will enable researchers to investigate the impact of climate change, land-use change, invasive species, and unsustainable water use on freshwater ecosystems of North America. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Maintain and revise, as needed, procedures for hydrologic and geomorphology data in freshwater streams • Co-develop algorithms for automated data processing of observational and instrumental data streams • Coordinate and oversee all aspects of construction of groundwater wells for the remaining NEON Aquatic sites • Document sensor maintenance standard operating procedures (SOPs) for an in situ sensors • Collaborate with the NEON Calibration (CVAL) Team to define sensor field and lab calibration procedures • Co-develop and implement data QA/QC, gap-filling, and algorithms for high level data products • Travel to NEON sites to oversee construction efforts • Co-develop sampling and sensor maintenance training program for field crews • Participate in the larger NEON science community, including participating in research and collaborations and attending meetings/conferences REQUIRED: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS • MSc in hydrology or related field AND 5+ years of experience in hydrology or hydrogeology Or BSc in hydrology or related field AND 8+ years of experience in hydrology or hydrogeology • Specialization in a hydrology with emphasis on environmental monitoring of freshwater systems, hydrogeology, geomorphology, or the role of groundwater in surface water chemistry • Field-based experience maintaining and calibrating sensors used in freshwater ecosystems. • Demonstrated experience quality checking, correcting, and verifying data from in-situ sensors, including defining and correcting sensor drift • Significant field experience working in streams • Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative scientific and engineering enterprise • Experience communicating in oral and demonstrated ability to write technical and scientific documents PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS • Demonstrated experience working in freshwater ecosystems of North America. • Experience designing and constructing groundwater well installations • Experience with sensor installations in large, navigable rivers and in small lakes • Working knowledge of aquatic ecological function and/or geomorphology of freshwater ecosystems • Experience working with federal and state agencies and NGO’s. Apply to: www.neonscience.org This position offers competitive total rewards including 401(k), health, vision and dental insurance, paid time off and the opportunity to work at an organization with a great mission. Battelle Ecology, Inc.
[ECOLOG-L] Manager Field Operations job opportunity with NEON
Battelle is guided by a founding mission. We invest our knowledge, talents and resources, helping our customers achieve their most important goals. We apply scientific rigor and creativity, succeeding where others may fail and we invest in our communities, making the world better for generations to come. All of us share a common purpose: to solve the greatest challenges of today and tomorrow. Our 22,000 employees work at the forefront of scientific innovation to tackle critical challenges in security, human health, manufacturing, energy and environmental management. Battelle’s work is grounded in the belief that science, technology and a passion for excellence can make industries more competitive and the world a better place. The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) Program is currently seeking a Field Operations Manager. This position is located in Tuscaloosa, AL and manages NEON operations in Talladega National Forest (Brent, AL), Dead Lake (Demopolis, AL) and Lenoir Landing/Choctaw National Wildlife Refuge (Coffeeville, AL). Occasional travel outside the region will be required. NEON is a continental-scale ecological observation facility sponsored by the National Science Foundation that gathers and synthesizes data on the impacts of climate change, land use change and invasive species on natural resources and biodiversity. The observatory is designed to collect high-quality, standardized data from field sites across the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Tuscaloosa, AL is located along the banks of the Black Warrior River in west-central Alabama. Home to University of Alabama and the Crimson Tide, Tuscaloosa (http://visittuscaloosa.com/) serves as a regional center for business, education and healthcare in West Alabama and offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities from performing arts to tailgating. Nearby Lake Lurleen State Park offers camping, picnicking, fishing piers, boat rentals and a boat launch. JOB DESCRIPTION This position manages a broad scope of scientific inquiry, managing a multi-disciplinary team of field scientists who collect measurements related to botany, mammalogy, limnology, micrometeorology, eddy flux and water quality at six NEON sites in Domain 08-Ozarks Complex. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES • Plan, schedule and ensure accurate execution, within NEON scientific parameters and annual budget, of all maintenance, repair and field sampling activities for 6 NEON field sites. o Coordination for instrument maintenance is required for approximately 40 different sensors, data acquisition system, power distribution system and supporting infrastructure (i.e. tower, instrument hut, boardwalks). o Coordination for field observations and collection are conducted using approximately 30 different protocols and multiple SOP’s with varying schedule requirements based on local ecosystem and current field conditions. • Recruit, train and manage all regular and temporary personnel supporting field office, lab and field site tasks. • Act as liaison between regional stakeholders, including educational and research organizations, local property owners and the general public and NEON Headquarters. • Communicate NEON status and activities, local activities and partnerships, and regional issues and concerns to appropriate regional stakeholders and NEON staff. Work with regional stakeholders to resolve issues or concerns. • Plan and participate in local/regional community engagement activities (i.e. local/regional conferences or meetings, invited talks). • Ensure compliance with NEON safety policy and procedures. • Ensure appropriate equipment, materials and supplies are available to support required field activities. Ensure accuracy and efficient use of funds within assigned region. THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • Bachelors’ Degree in life science field or equivalent work experience. • 5 years previous experience supervising personnel including participating in hiring, training, and evaluating performance. • Previous experience developing and managing budgets and schedules. • Previous experience performing ecology related lab and field activities and/or maintaining scientific instrumentation (e.g. meteorological and aquatic sensors). • Previous experience communicating with external stakeholders such as customers, funding agencies, regulatory agencies, etc. • Requires critical human relation skills to understand, select, develop and motivate others. • Permanent U.S. Work Authorization required THE FOLLOWING IS DESIRED, BUT NOT REQUIRED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • Previous experience managing a technical field operations group. • Graduate study in biology, ecology, environmental science or related field. • Previous experience leadin
[ECOLOG-L] Aquatic Instrumentation and Oceanography Manager job with NEON
Battelle is guided by a founding mission. We invest our knowledge, talents and resources, helping our customers achieve their most important goals. We apply scientific rigor and creativity, succeeding where others may fail and we invest in our communities, making the world better for generations to come. All of us share a common purpose: to solve the greatest challenges of today and tomorrow. Our 22,000 employees work at the forefront of scientific innovation to tackle critical challenges in security, human health, manufacturing, energy and environmental management. Battelle’s work is grounded in the belief that science, technology and a passion for excellence can make industries more competitive and the world a better place. Battelle’s Ecology Business is seeking an Aquatic Instrumentation and Oceanography Manager, located in Boulder, CO. Battelle’s Ecology Business supports the broader mission of the Infrastructure and Environment Business Unit, with management operations located in Columbus, OH. JOB DESCRIPTION Reporting to the Director of Science, the Manager is primarily responsible for directly managing staff within the Aquatic Instrumentation and Oceanography team and the technical activities of projects/programs. The Ecology Business predominately serves the National Science Foundation as Managing Organization to complete the construction, commissioning, and initial operations of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). NEON will enable scientists to understand and forecast interactions between life and the environment, including changes in climate, land use and invasive species, throughout the United States. In this capacity, the Manager will lead technical activities and provide technical and scientific expertise in multiple natural science fields such as ecology, civil engineering, hydrology, and water quality for the construction and operations of NEON’s Aquatic Instrumented Systems that are deployed at wadeable streams, non-wadeable streams and rivers, and lakes. • Develops and manages schedule, budget, risks, and documentation. • Identifies risks to meeting scheduled activities, and implements solutions to mitigate risk and meet timelines. • Responsible for efficient project management practices and leading teams within a professional work environment, including coordinating a variety of simultaneous tasks. • Provides strategic, scientific rationale for aquatic components of the NEON project • Assists in the development and oversight of aquatic site infrastructure deployments. • Serves as the point of contact to resolve operations issues related to implementation of aquatic instrumentation • Manages the documentation of maintenance plans, equipment design and data collection, verifying that all activities are documented. • Contributes to training material and field manuals for field and lab procedures. • Collaborates with the NEON Data Products and Cyberinfrastructure teams and other science staff to develop algorithms to deliver data products and specifications for data ingest and publication formats associated with the collection of instrumented aquatic data. • Supports active engagement between the Observatory and the broader science community and promotes scientific advancements in continental-scale ecology relevant to the observatory mission. • Establishes staff goals and objectives and prepares and delivers performance reviews. • The manager will also contribute to the development of an externally funded research program and other new business opportunities, particularly those in the aquatic sciences. THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • B.S. in Ecology, Hydrology, Oceanography, Biology, or related field. • Five (5) years’ experience with methods in aquatic ecology. • Experience with instrumented sampling methods in aquatic systems. • Supervisory/leadership experience, sufficient to demonstrate the ability to manage a diverse group of engineers, scientists, and technicians. • Experience in managing budgets and schedules for a large scale scientific project. • Demonstrated experience in scientific writing and review. • Highly effective communication and interpersonal skills. THE FOLLOWING IS DESIRED, BUT NOT REQUIRED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • MS and 10+ years of expereince in Ecology, Hydrology, Oceanography, Biology, or related field. • Experience with both freshwater and oceanic aquatic systems. • Experience working with groups involved in terrestrial and aquatic ecological environments. • Experience working in a collaborative scientific enterprise. • Demonstrated success in obtaining external funding. Apply to: www.neonscience.org BENEFITS Battelle’s competitive benefits program includes comprehensive medical and den
[ECOLOG-L] Staff Scientist - Data Products job with the National Ecological Observatory Network
COMPANY OVERVIEW Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manage and operate the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales Location: Boulder, Colorado JOB SUMMARY The Staff Scientist – Data Products will manage the efforts for developing and delivering the micrometeorology data product through an internal working group (working Integrated Product Team - wIPT) responsible for delivering Eddy-Covariance data products. Responsibilities include: ensuring delivery of data products and associated documentation, including design, specification, implementation, testing, and publication. This position requires understanding Battelle Ecology, Inc.’s data and sample acquisition systems and their scientific design and goals, and assessing and realizing the utility of algorithms necessary to enable community use of the products. The Staff Scientist will also be expected to interact with external working groups and advisory panels, liaising with the larger ecological modeling and micrometeorology communities to ensure Battelle Ecology, Inc.’s chosen approaches are appropriate. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Support the development of Battelle Ecology, Inc.’s eddy covariance data products, including managing cost and schedule. • Provide technical guidance on the development of Battelle Ecology, Inc. data products, particularly eddy covariance data products. • Coordinate porting/testing/validation of all Micrometeorology science code into operational cyberinfrastructure, including development of standardized plans for transferring science code into the cyberinfrastructure • Coordinate implementation, dataflow and data formats for public access • Support working groups and product teams (internally and externally) to address cross-cutting science issues associated with sensor and algorithm deployment, implementation, maintenance and QA/QC • Provide expertise and feedback in designing, developing, and implementing state-of-the-art tools for manipulating, processing, and analyzing Battelle Ecology, Inc. wide variety of data. REQUIRED: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS • Ph.D. with applicable experience in an environmental science field, such as community land modeling, micrometeorology, biometeorology, ecosystem science, or atmospheric sciences • Two or more years’ experience (may be postdoctoral) • Sound understanding of a wide range of sensors and measurement techniques, and their associated data acquisition and analysis procedures • In-depth knowledge of quantitative uncertainty analyses, time- domain, frequency-domain and QA/QC procedures Experience with combining data of different types and from multiple spatial & temporal scales • Proficiency in one or more programming languages, such as Fortran90+, Java, Python, C/C++ • Experience with common statistics packages, such as R or SAS PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS • Demonstrated experience leading teams • Demonstrated experience working with interdisciplinary teams • Knowledge of soil, tower, and airborne sensors and measurement techniques and their associated data acquisition and analysis procedures. • Demonstrated experience working at the micro- to meso- meteorological scale • Ability to develop dataflow designs for different and contrasting types of data • Experience in operationalizing science code and working with large, complex data sets • Design of data visualization tools • Demonstrable knowledge of two or more ecological sciences relevant to Battelle Ecology, Inc. • Peer-reviewed journal publications and a record of professional accomplishment related to the Battelle Ecology, Inc. mission Apply to: www.neonscience.org Battelle Ecology, Inc. provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, a
[ECOLOG-L] Field Technician II and III Instrumentation job opportunities with NEON
COMPANY OVERVIEW Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON™) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY The Field Technicians reports to the Field Operations Manager. Field Technician II - The Field Technician II is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing. The Field Technician II will be the technical lead for performing routine maintenance and inventory management on all terrestrial sampling equipment. The Field Technician II will provide guidance to temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory. Field Technician III - The Field Technician III is the shift lead performing and supervising seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing. The Field Technician III will have primary responsibility for coordinating sampling and laboratory activities at terrestrial sampling sites. The Field Technician III will have additional roles and responsibilities assisting the Field Operations Manager with management of the Domain Support Facility, hiring and training seasonal field staff, and acting as manager in the absence of the Field Operations Manager. LOCATION The Domain 06 Field Technician’s primary work location is near Manhattan, KS. This position supports sites in the Prairie Peninsula Domain. Prairie Peninsula candidate sites are located at Konza Prairie Biological Station near Manhattan, KS and at the University of Kansas Field Station near Lawrence, KS. The Prairie Peninsula Domain includes parts of Kansas, Nebraska, southern Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, southern Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Instrumentation (tower) emphasis: Test, troubleshoot and operate instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. Assist the NEON Systems Engineering Product Team with instrument installation and testing (approximately the first 6 months). Record activities, completed work and trouble tickets according to Field Operations protocol. REQUIRED: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS All Technician Levels: Ability to work in a team environment. Experience should include performing scientific data entry and data management. Ability to hike off-trail to assigned field site for long distances carrying field equipment (pack weighing up to 40 lbs.) for extended periods of time. Ability and willingness to travel overnight frequently (e.g. semi- monthly for 3-4 nights). Equivalent education and experience may be considered. Field Technician II Bachelor’s Degree in ecology, environmental sciences or related scientific discipline. Three (3) or more years’ of related experience. Field Technician III Bachelor’s Degree in ecology, environmental sciences or related scientific discipline. Five (5) or more years’ of related experience. Previous experience in scheduling, training, leading and auditing the performance of field crews required. To see full job descriptions and to apply go to: www.neonscience.org Must possess a current and valid State issued driver’s license with insurable Department of Motor vehicle record (parking violations, minor driving offenses excluded) as determined by Battelle Ecology Inc.’s insurance provider. Must have permanent authorization for US employment. Battelle Ecology, Inc. will not provide any kind of visa sponsorship. This position offers competitive total rewards including 401(k), health, vision and dental insurance, paid time off and the opportunity to work at an organization with a great mission. Battelle Ecology, Inc. provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation,
[ECOLOG-L] Field Technician II and III Limnology job opportunities with NEON
COMPANY OVERVIEW Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON™) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY The Field Technician positions report to the Field Operations Manager. Field Technician II - The Field Technician II is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing. The Field Technician II will be the technical lead for performing routine maintenance and inventory management on all terrestrial sampling equipment. The Field Technician II will provide guidance to temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory. Field Technician III - The Field Technician III is the shift lead performing and supervising seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing. The Field Technician III will have primary responsibility for coordinating sampling and laboratory activities at terrestrial sampling sites. The Field Technician III will have additional roles and responsibilities assisting the Field Operations Manager with management of the Domain Support Facility, hiring and training seasonal field staff, and acting as manager in the absence of the Field Operations Manager. LOCATION The Domain 06 Field Technician’s primary work location is near Manhattan, KS. This position supports sites in the Prairie Peninsula Domain. Prairie Peninsula candidate sites are located at Konza Prairie Biological Station near Manhattan, KS and at the University of Kansas Field Station near Lawrence, KS. The Prairie Peninsula Domain includes parts of Kansas, Nebraska, southern Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, southern Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES. Limnology Emphasis: Monitor and sample aquatic sites for water quality, biological indicators, physical properties of site (e.g. gaging streams, geomorphic mapping, etc.), and leading field crews to perform the aforementioned items. Test, troubleshoot and operate instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. Inspect and maintain aquatic sensors, gear and equipment. Assist the NEON Systems Engineering Product Team with instrument installation and testing (approximately the first 6 months). Perform aquatic vegetation diversity and primary productivity measurements. Sample for aquatic invertebrate and fish diversity and abundance. REQUIRED: EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS All Technician Levels: Ability to work in a team environment. Experience should include performing scientific data entry and data management. Ability to hike off-trail to assigned field site for long distances carrying field equipment (pack weighing up to 40 lbs.) for extended periods of time. Ability and willingness to travel overnight frequently (e.g. semi- monthly for 3-4 nights). Equivalent education and experience may be considered. Field Technician II Bachelor’s Degree in ecology, environmental sciences or related scientific discipline. Three (3) or more years’ of related experience. Field Technician III Bachelor’s Degree in ecology, environmental sciences or related scientific discipline. Five (5) or more years’ of related experience. Previous experience in scheduling, training, leading and auditing the performance of field crews required. To see full job descriptions and to apply go to: www.neonscience.org Must possess a current and valid State issued driver’s license with insurable Department of Motor vehicle record (parking violations, minor driving offenses excluded) as determined by Battelle Ecology Inc.’s insurance provider. Must have permanent authorization for US employment. Battelle Ecology, Inc. will not provide any kind of visa sponsorship. This position offers competitive total rewards including 401(k), health, vision and dental insurance, paid time off and the opportunity to work at an organization with a great mission. Battelle Ecology, Inc. provid
[ECOLOG-L] NEON D14 AZ Field Technician III job Limnology primary Instrumentation secondary
Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manage and operate the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY The Field Technician reports to the Field Operations Manager and will be hired at a Field Technician III level. • Field Technician III - The Field Technician III is the shift lead performing and supervising seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing. The Field Technician III will have primary responsibility for coordinating sampling and laboratory activities at terrestrial sampling sites. The Field Technician III will have additional roles and responsibilities assisting the Field Operations Manager with management of the Domain Support Facility, hiring and training seasonal field staff, and acting as manager in the absence of the Field Operations Manager. LOCATION The Domain 14 Field Technician’s primary work location is near Tucson, AZ. This position supports sites in the Desert Southwest Domain. Desert Southwest sites are located at Santa Rita Experimental Range near Tucson, Jornada LTER near Las Cruces, NM and near Phoenix, AZ. The Desert Southwest Domain includes western Texas, southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, southern Nevada, and Southern California. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The primary responsibility for the position will be to lead aquatics sampling efforts at Sycamore Creek. This site will present a unique set of scheduling and sampling challenges due to flash flooding and seasonally dry conditions. As the only full-time aquatics hire in this domain, the ideal candidate will have experience carrying out standardized biological sampling protocols, maintaining aquatic instrumentation. The position will additionally require taking part in terrestrial sampling and tower maintenance activities at Santa Rita and Jornada Experimental Ranges. Limnology primary emphasis: • Monitor and sample aquatic sites for water quality, biological indicators, physical properties of site (e.g. gaging streams, geomorphic mapping, etc.), and leading field crews to perform the aforementioned items. • Test, troubleshoot and operate instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain aquatic sensors, gear and equipment. • Assist the NEON Systems Engineering Product Team with instrument installation and testing (approximately the first 6 months). • Perform aquatic vegetation diversity and primary productivity measurements. • Sample for aquatic invertebrate and fish diversity and abundance. Instrumentation (tower) secondary emphasis: • Test, troubleshoot and operate instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. • Assist the NEON Project Systems Engineering Product Team with instrument installation and testing (approximately the first 6 months). • Record activities, completed work and trouble tickets according to Field Operations protocol. General duties include: • Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols. • Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment. • Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH meter, microscope, and muffle furnace). • Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel. • Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel. • Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and marking plots. • Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office.
[ECOLOG-L] Aquatic Instrumentation and Oceanography Manager job Battelle/NEON Project
Battelle is guided by a founding mission. We invest our knowledge, talents and resources, helping our customers achieve their most important goals. We apply scientific rigor and creativity, succeeding where others may fail and we invest in our communities, making the world better for generations to come. All of us share a common purpose: to solve the greatest challenges of today and tomorrow. Our 22,000 employees work at the forefront of scientific innovation to tackle critical challenges in security, human health, manufacturing, energy and environmental management. Battelle’s work is grounded in the belief that science, technology and a passion for excellence can make industries more competitive and the world a better place. Battelle’s Ecology Business is seeking an Aquatic Instrumentation and Oceanography Manager, located in Boulder, CO. Battelle’s Ecology Business supports the broader mission of the Infrastructure and Environment Business Unit, with management operations located in Columbus, OH. JOB DESCRIPTION Reporting to the Director of Science, the Manager is primarily responsible for directly managing staff within the Aquatic Instrumentation and Oceanography team and the technical activities of projects/programs. The Ecology Business predominately serves the National Science Foundation as Managing Organization to complete the construction, commissioning, and initial operations of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). NEON will enable scientists to understand and forecast interactions between life and the environment, including changes in climate, land use and invasive species, throughout the United States. In this capacity, the Manager will lead technical activities and provide technical and scientific expertise in multiple natural science fields such as ecology, civil engineering, hydrology, and water quality for the construction and operations of NEON’s Aquatic Instrumented Systems that are deployed at wadeable streams, non-wadeable streams and rivers, and lakes. • Develops and manages schedule, budget, risks, and documentation. • Identifies risks to meeting scheduled activities, and implements solutions to mitigate risk and meet timelines. • Responsible for efficient project management practices and leading teams within a professional work environment, including coordinating a variety of simultaneous tasks. • Provides strategic, scientific rationale for aquatic components of the NEON project • Assists in the development and oversight of aquatic site infrastructure deployments. • Serves as the point of contact to resolve operations issues related to implementation of aquatic instrumentation • Manages the documentation of maintenance plans, equipment design and data collection, verifying that all activities are documented. • Contributes to training material and field manuals for field and lab procedures. • Collaborates with the NEON Data Products and Cyberinfrastructure teams and other science staff to develop algorithms to deliver data products and specifications for data ingest and publication formats associated with the collection of instrumented aquatic data. • Supports active engagement between the Observatory and the broader science community and promotes scientific advancements in continental-scale ecology relevant to the observatory mission. • Establishes staff goals and objectives and prepares and delivers performance reviews. • The manager will also contribute to the development of an externally funded research program and other new business opportunities, particularly those in the aquatic sciences. THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • PhD in Ecology, Hydrology, Oceanography, Biology, or related field and 1 year of experience with methods in aquatic ecology, OR equivalent Combination of degree and experience. • MS in Ecology, Hydrology, Oceanography, Biology, or related field and 3 years of experience with methods in aquatic ecology. • Experience with instrumented sampling methods in aquatic systems. • Supervisory/leadership experience, sufficient to demonstrate the ability to manage a diverse group of engineers, scientists, and technicians. • Experience in managing budgets and schedules for a large scale scientific project. • Demonstrated experience in scientific writing and review. • Highly effective communication and interpersonal skills. THE FOLLOWING IS DESIRED, BUT NOT REQUIRED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • PhD in Ecology, Hydrology, Oceanography, Biology, or related field and 5 or more years of experience with methods in aquatic ecology. • MS in Ecology, Hydrology, Oceanography, Biology, or related field and 8 or more years of experience with methods in aquatic ecology. • Experience with both freshwater and oceanic aquatic s
[ECOLOG-L] NEON Field Technician II - Botany job opportunity in Alaska
COMPANY OVERVIEW Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manages and operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. JOB SUMMARY The Field Technician reports to the Field Operations Manager and will be hired as a Field Technician II level. • Field Technician II - The Field Technician II is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing. The Field Technician II will be the technical lead for performing routine maintenance and inventory management on all terrestrial sampling equipment. The Field Technician II will provide guidance to temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory. LOCATION The Domain 18/19 Field Technician’s primary work location is in Fairbanks, AK. This position supports sites in the Taiga and Tundra Domains. Taiga Domain candidate sites are located at the Caribou-Poker Creeks Research Watershed near Chatanika, AK, south of Delta Junction, AK and near Healy, AK. Tundra Domain candidates sites are located at Toolik Field Station south of Prudhoe Bay and at Barrow Environmental Observatory. The Taiga and Tundra domains include most of Alaska. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Botany emphasis: • Lead, perform and coordinate plant phenology, diversity, biogeochemistry and productivity measurements. • Identify local flora to species using techniques including: general observation, field references, dichotomous key, comparison with identified specimens, or other identification methods. Local species identification skills are used to complete activities such as plant diversity observations, classification of phenological stages of local flora, and sorting of plants and debris into functional group or category. • Collect and process samples for activities such as clip harvest, biomass, canopy foliage and leaf area index measurements as well as vegetation structure measurements. • Map and measure structural metrics of free-standing woody stems. General duties include: • Report activities, completed work, and sampling problems according to Field Operations protocols. • Inspect, maintain and operate field, safety and laboratory equipment. • Operate laboratory equipment (e.g. Wiley Mill, drying oven, analytical balance, centrifugal mill, pH meter, microscope, and muffle furnace). • Assist the Field Operations Manager with recruiting and training of seasonal field personnel. • Provide instruction and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel. • Perform plot establishment by locating plots with GPS navigation as well as measuring and marking plots. • Assist the Field Operations Manager with materials planning, inventory and ordering as well as day-to-day oversight of personnel and scheduling of activities coordinated from the field office. • Follow Battelle Ecology, Inc. safety and Field Operations policy and procedures. Field activities may include: • Follow established, standardized field protocols for sample collection and handling; record and verify accuracy of data from sample collections; process samples in the laboratory; send samples to external analytical labs. Train and lead field crews performing the aforementioned items. • Perform other field sampling activities as assigned including: ground beetle collection (pitfall trapping), mosquito collection (CO2 light traps, tick collection (dragging and flagging) and soil core collection. • Test, troubleshoot and operate tower, soil and aquatic instruments, calibration equipment and test fixtures. • Inspect and maintain civil infrastructure including boom arms, sensor mounts, towers, boardwalks and instrument huts. • Monitor and sample aquatic sites for water quality, biological indicators and physical properties of site (e.g. gaging streams, geomorphic mapping). Physical dema
[ECOLOG-L] Data Science (Education) Lead - job opportunity Battelle/NEON Project
Battelle is guided by a founding mission. We invest our knowledge, talents and resources, helping our customers achieve their most important goals. We apply scientific rigor and creativity, succeeding where others may fail and we invest in our communities, making the world better for generations to come. All of us share a common purpose: to solve the greatest challenges of today and tomorrow. Our 22,000 employees work at the forefront of scientific innovation to tackle critical challenges in security, human health, manufacturing, energy and environmental management. Battelle’s work is grounded in the belief that science, technology and a passion for excellence can make industries more competitive and the world a better place. The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project is focused on building and operating an NSF-sponsored Observatory that that gathers and synthesizes data on the impacts of climate change, land use change and invasive species on natural resources and biodiversity. We are currently seeking a Data Science Lead. This position located in Boulder, CO at the NEON project headquarters. JOB DESCRIPTION The Data Science Lead is responsible for developing web-based, data science tutorials, informational resources, and tools for helping scientists and students use large, ecological datasets (NEON and NEON- like data), including online data management and analysis tools, subsets of large datasets, and algorithms/code to process and visualize data. In addition, the Data Science Lead will develop and lead workshops, courses and seminars for scientists, faculty and students focused on using large, ecological datasets for scientific research and teaching. He/she will work closely with Battelle/NEON project research scientists, science community, and university faculty to develop resources that support the use of diverse ecological datasets, including NEON data, for research and student learning. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: • Research, develop and/or oversee content for the NEON Data Skills web portal (neondataskills.org), including content related to o continental-scale ecology, o NEON and NEON-like data, o activities that teach key data management and analysis skills using data subsets, code and GUI-based data analysis tools. • Identify key data products (including both NEON and external datasets) and science topics to be used as part of online data science activities, in collaboration with Battelle/NEON project research scientists and science community at-large. • Develop, test and implement algorithms/code and tools that can be used to analyze NEON data and/or subsets of NEON-like data to support online resources and tools as well as workshops and courses. • Lead, develop, teach and coordinate data science workshops, webinars and online courses focused on NEON-related topics and/or ecological data for scientists, students and faculty • Build partnerships with college/university faculty, researchers and other stakeholders to design, develop and implement data science content • Participate in designing and implementing evaluation and assessment strategies for data resources and programs • Support/assist in developing and implementing strategic plans for business development in data science/skills area • Prepare technical sections of proposals; may manage proposals or major sections of large proposals • Lead and/or oversee project teams developing data science tutorials, informational resources, and tools for helping scientists and students use large, ecological datasets • Participate in scientific conferences, peer review panels, meetings and other appropriate events to network, share resources, and establish/maintain partnerships THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • Ph.D. in ecology, natural sciences, environmental science, data science or related area and 0-3 years of experience OR equivalent combination of education and experience. • Experience working with key data analysis tools needed to work with large, ecological datasets such as R, Python, Octave, QGIS, ArcGIS, etc. • Experience working with large scientific datasets • Experience developing online resources and/or activities focused on using big data in scientific analyses • Experience developing and implementing data science-based programs, online and in-person, with college-level students and faculty • Demonstrated ability to understand and translate complex data science topics to a variety of audiences • Demonstrated skills in data management and data analysis of a variety of data types • Ability to speak in public to a diversity of audiences including scientists, science educators, college/university faculty, college-level students, and funding agency (NSF) program directors • Strong
[ECOLOG-L] Manager Field Operations - Florida
Battelle is guided by a founding mission. We invest our knowledge, talents and resources, helping our customers achieve their most important goals. We apply scientific rigor and creativity, succeeding where others may fail and we invest in our communities, making the world better for generations to come. All of us share a common purpose: to solve the greatest challenges of today and tomorrow. Our 22,000 employees work at the forefront of scientific innovation to tackle critical challenges in security, human health, manufacturing, energy and environmental management. Battelle’s work is grounded in the belief that science, technology and a passion for excellence can make industries more competitive and the world a better place. The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) Program is currently seeking a Field Operations Manager. This position is located in Gainesville, FL and manages NEON operations at Ordway-Swisher Biological Station (Gainesville, FL), Disney Wilderness Preserve (Poinciana, FL), and Jones Ecological Research Center (Newton, GA). Occasional travel outside the region will be required. NEON is a continental-scale ecological observation facility sponsored by the National Science Foundation that gathers and synthesizes data on the impacts of climate change, land use change and invasive species on natural resources and biodiversity. The observatory is designed to collect high-quality, standardized data from field sites across the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Gainesville, FL is home to the University of Florida and Santa Fe College. Located in north-central Florida, Gainesville (http://www.visitgainesville.com/) is 2 hours from both the Atlantic and Gulf Coast. Gainesville boasts world-class fishing, snorkeling, canoeing, diving and kayaking and offers plenty of opportunity to enjoy the unique natural environment of the Florida peninsula. JOB DESCRIPTION This position manages a broad scope of scientific inquiry, managing a multi-disciplinary team of field scientists who collect measurements related to botany, mammalogy, limnology, micrometeorology, eddy flux and water quality at three NEON sites in Domain 03-Florida (Southeast). MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES • Plan, schedule and ensure accurate execution, within NEON scientific parameters and annual budget, of all maintenance, repair and field sampling activities for 3 NEON field sites. o Coordination for instrument maintenance is required for approximately 40 different sensors, data acquisition system, power distribution system and supporting infrastructure (i.e. tower, instrument hut, boardwalks). o Coordination for field observations and collection are conducted using approximately 30 different protocols and multiple SOP’s with varying schedule requirements based on local ecosystem and current field conditions. • Recruit, train and manage all regular and temporary personnel supporting field office, lab and field site tasks. • Act as liaison between regional stakeholders, including educational and research organizations, local property owners and the general public and NEON Headquarters. • Communicate NEON status and activities, local activities and partnerships, and regional issues and concerns to appropriate regional stakeholders and NEON staff. Work with regional stakeholders to resolve issues or concerns. • Plan and participate in local/regional community engagement activities (i.e. local/regional conferences or meetings, invited talks). • Ensure compliance with NEON safety policy and procedures. • Ensure appropriate equipment, materials and supplies are available to support required field activities. Ensure accuracy and efficient use of funds within assigned region. THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • Bachelors’ Degree in life science field. • 5 years previous experience supervising personnel including participating in hiring, training, and evaluating performance. • Previous experience developing and managing budgets and schedules. • Previous experience performing ecology related lab and field activities and/or maintaining scientific instrumentation (e.g. meteorological and aquatic sensors). • Previous experience communicating with external stakeholders such as customers, funding agencies, regulatory agencies, etc. • Requires critical human relation skills to understand, select, develop and motivate others. • Permanent U.S. Work Authorization required THE FOLLOWING IS DESIRED, BUT NOT REQUIRED TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • Previous experience managing a technical field operations group. • Graduate study in biology, ecology, environmental science or related field. • Previous experience leading or participating in outdoor activities in remote areas. Apply: https://jobs.battelle.org/Sh
[ECOLOG-L] NEON Observatory Director.Chief Scientist job opportunity Boulder, CO
Battelle operates the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. NEON is a 30+ year project designed to provide data for scientists to better understand and forecast the impacts of climate change, land use change and invasive species on continental scale ecology. NEON collects data and samples using a combination of field sampling, sensors, and airborne remote sensing measurements across the US. The NEON Observatory Director/Chief Scientist will serve as the scientific lead of the Observatory and is responsible for facilitating community-led transformative research using the Observatory platform. This position will lead the Observatory science program through close coordination with the ecological science community and ensure that the Observatory fulfills its scientific and educational mission. In addition, this position will build impactful external activities with collaborators nationally and internationally. Candidates must have a Ph.D. with at least 15 years of experience and an established record of outstanding scholarly achievement in ecology, advancing ecological thought and managing complex research programs. To see the full job description and to submit your resume/CV and cover letter to: battelle.org/careers Battelle provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, or disability.
[ECOLOG-L] NEON Project Manager, Operations - Boulder, CO
The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a shared-use, continental scale research platform for ecological research, consisting of geographically distributed networked infrastructure. Networks of sensors coupled to a network of human observers and airborne observations, will be linked to computational, analytical and modeling capabilities. Battelle, under multiple Cooperative Support Agreements awarded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), is in the midst of executing a program requiring completion of Observatory Construction, and transition of completed sites to Operations. The completed Observatory is expected to be in initial operations in 2018, and full operations in 2019. JOB DESCRIPTION: The NEON Project Manager, Operations will serve as the Battelle authority responsible for the successful day-to-day performance/operation of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). This position will be the primary POC and interface to the NSF regarding execution of NEON Operations project scope, cost and schedule performance, and similarly, to Battelle senior management. The NEON Project Manager, Operations will manage a complex, multi-year project in a matrix organization, requiring coordination of geographically dispersed teams. This will include strategic project planning consistent with client (NSF) expectations for operations, development and implementation of project execution plans, and management of project cost, schedule and performance. The NEON Project Manager, Operations will perform these functions collaboratively with the NEON Program Manager, until Observatory Construction has been completed and a sufficient transition to Operations has occurred, at which time the NEON Program Manager position will be eliminated. Further collaboration will be required in the performance of these functions with the NEON Chief Scientist/Observatory Director, who is responsible for leading the Observatory science program through close coordination with the ecological science community and ensuring that the Observatory fulfills its scientific and educational mission. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: • Serves as a member of the Battelle leadership team to advocate, support, and ensure the scientific and educational objectives of the Observatory, through efficient and responsive Operations management and execution of the Observatory Collections plan, are being met. • Represents Battelle in engagements with NSF, other Federal Agencies, Congress and other key external stakeholders in order to communicate status and other details concerning Observatory Operations. • Directs utilization of Battelle policies, processes and procedures to collect and review financial and performance information to determine NEON Operations project status, identify significant variances, and initiate corrective actions to achieve project objectives. • Ensures key deliverables (monthly and annual reports, project execution plan, CONOPS, etc) are developed, completed and submitted to the client in accordance with required submittal dates. • Assesses impacts of scope, schedule and budget change requests and ensures that the requisite action is taken. Ensures that the NEON Operations project is maintained within the scope, budget and schedule of the baseline agreement and changes the baseline when appropriate client-directed changes are approved. • Proactively communicates with clients to ensure they are an integral part of the NEON Operations project for clarification of requirements and regular assessment of implementation progress. Builds client relationships to sustain and expand business opportunities. Influences client opinion on future project direction. Influences customer’s plans and priorities as related to the project. Identifies value opportunities for Battelle with the client and establishes opportunity development capture plans. Positions Battelle to win all such opportunities. • Actively contributes to business development and proposal activities including the formulation of win and bid strategies. Establishes review procedures to ensure that proposed technical work can be accomplished as described within proposed cost, time and quality constraints. Coordinates the efforts of the proposal team to formulate an offering that persuasively presents the technical and management approach that meets the client needs and documents the value created. • Guides project and task managers and staff in using configuration management and control processes to manage NEON Operations project change. Establishes strategies for using cost and schedule performance data analysis in making project decisions to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of specified services and products. Ensures change management policies and processes to evaluate changes, examine options, and make responsible decisions
[ECOLOG-L] National Ecological Observatory Network - Temporary Field and Lead Technician job opportunities
COMPANY OVERVIEW Battelle and its affiliate, Battelle Ecology, Inc. manage and operate the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project, which is solely funded by the National Science Foundation. A 30+ year project dedicated to understanding how changes in climate, land use and invasive species impact ecology, the observatory’s scientists and engineers are collecting a comprehensive range of ecological data on a continental scale across 20 eco-climatic domains representing US ecosystems. Our teams use cutting-edge technology, including an airborne observation platform that captures images of regional landscapes and vegetation; mobile, relocatable, and fixed data collection sites with automated ground sensors to monitor soil and atmosphere; and trained field crews who observe and sample populations of diverse organisms and collect soil and water data. Once structures are completed, a leading edge cyberinfrastructure will calibrate, store and publish this information. The Observatory includes more than 500+ personnel and is the first of its kind designed to detect and enable forecasting of ecological change at continental scales. We are currently seeking multiple Temporary Field Technicians and Temporary Lead Field Technicians. Locations: Across the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. JOB SUMMARY – Temporary Field Technician Temporary Field Technicians perform seasonal and periodic sampling of physical, chemical and biological data at one (1)-five (5) field sites, while exercising good judgement and decision-making abilities to interpret protocol requirements. JOB SUMMARY – Temporary Lead Field Technician Lead Temporary Field Technicians perform and supervise seasonal and periodic sampling of physical, chemical and biological data at one (1)- five (5) field sites, while exercising good judgement and decision- making abilities to interpret protocol requirements. Apply: To see the full job description and to apply go to: http://www.neonscience.org Battelle Ecology, Inc. provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, or disability. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle Ecology, Inc.
[ECOLOG-L] Battelle - Air Quality Scientist - job opportunity
Battelle is guided by a founding mission. We invest our knowledge, talents and resources, helping our customers achieve their most important goals. We apply scientific rigor and creativity, succeeding where others may fail and we invest in our communities, making the world better for generations to come. All of us share a common purpose: to solve the greatest challenges of today and tomorrow. Our 22,000 employees work at the forefront of scientific innovation to tackle critical challenges in security, human health, manufacturing, energy and environmental management. Battelle’s work is grounded in the belief that science, technology and a passion for excellence can make industries more competitive and the world a better place. We are currently seeking an Air Quality Scientist to fill a role in the Environmental Business Line. This position is located in Columbus, OH. JOB DESCRIPTION • Manage and support environmental projects specifically related to air quality sampling and analysis. • Conduct technical work and produce quality results in a timely manner. Prepare in-depth technical reports and PowerPoint presentations in support of air quality projects. • Design and conduct field and laboratory experiments, including preparing sampling and test plans, required to address client’s needs. • Lead air sampling and air quality audits to ensure client compliance with specific state and federal ambient air quality standards. • Provide technical advice (internally and externally) to ensure project execution at the highest quality. • Develop and implement internal research and development projects that enhance capability and/or support the development of new technical approaches. • Participate with an air assessment team to increase company visibility and scientific credibility by presenting work in client meetings, scientific forums, conferences and in publications. • Lead and support the development of proposals to government and industrial clients. THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION: • U.S. Citizenship • A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in chemistry or related field and at least 8 years of experience in the field of air assessment/air quality, or M.S. in chemistry or related field and 4 years of experience, or a PhD in chemistry or related field. • Ability to demonstrate a broad familiarity with air sampling and analysis instrumentation for the collection and measurement of criteria pollutants, VOCs, carbonyls, SVOCs such as PAHs, and particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5, speciated PM, UFP, etc.) • Experienced with the preparation of QAPPs, SOPs, TADs, other quality systems and technical guidance documents that govern and describe air monitoring and sample analysis activities. • A demonstrated background in analytical chemistry methods development and the design, planning, execution, and interpretation of the results from air monitoring field studies and projects. • Expertise in data visualization and analysis with programs such as IGOR, MatLab, and/or R. • Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision. • Excellent writing, communication, interpersonal skills, analytical, and leadership skills, as demonstrated by technical reports, published papers, theses, and the like. • Desire to meet with clients and present Battelle’s air assessment capabilities and services. • Ability to travel domestically, including participating in field work, approximately one week per month. THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS ARE DESIRABLE FOR THIS POSITION: • Experience in conducting onsite technical systems audits of air monitoring laboratories and sites, such as those in the NCore, SLAMS, CSN, NATTS, and PAMS national networks. Apply to: www.battelle.org/careers BENEFITS Battelle’s competitive benefits program includes comprehensive medical and dental care, matching 401K, paid time off, flexible spending accounts, disability coverage, and other benefits that help provide financial protection for you and your family. “Battelle provides employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, or disability. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.”