[ECOLOG-L] Post-Doc: remote sensing and rangeland ecology in Fort Collins
Hello Ecolog, We are looking for a recent PhD graduate interested in remote sensing and rangeland ecology! This is a 2-year position. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Here is the job announcement link: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/519924500 Lauren M. Porensky Research Ecologist Rangeland Resources and Systems Research Unit USDA Agricultural Research Service 1701 Centre Ave Fort Collins, CO 80526 970-492-7139
[ECOLOG-L] Summer 2019 Research Assistant/Internship
Research assistant Location of work: Thunder Basin National Grassland, Bill, WY Hours of work: 40 hours per week (4 x 10 hour days per week) Salary: $2400 per month. Housing is provided. Three days of PTO and two holidays included. Dates: May 20 - August 15, 2019. Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis. Send application materials (cover letter, resume, references) and/or questions to: Dave Pellatz Executive Director Thunder Basin Grasslands Prairie Ecosystem Association 671 Steinle Rd Douglas, WY 82633 307-359-1328 d...@rswyoming.com and copy to: Lauren Porensky Research Ecologist Rangeland Resources Systems Research Unit USDA-ARS 1701 Centre Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80526 USA 970.492.7139 lauren.poren...@ars.usda.gov GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION Research assistant for the Thunder Basin Prairie Ecosystem Association (TBGPEA). TBGPEA is a non-profit organization established to provide private landowner leadership in developing a responsible, science-based approach to long-term management of the lands of its members. Over the last ten years the Association has focused its efforts on developing ecosystem-based conservation measures. These measures are designed to address the habitat needs of species of concern in northeastern Wyoming in balance with the need for sustainable economic and social activities and preservation of cultural values. TBGPEA is collaborating with the USDA-ARS Rangeland Resources Systems Research Unit (RRSRU) to develop new knowledge about ecological processes in Thunder Basin and apply this knowledge to improved management for production and conservation objectives. The Research Assistant will be supervised by the Board of TBGPEA with input from RRSRU scientists. The Assistant will be responsible for collecting scientific data from field experiments to evaluate how climate, fire, soils, grazing management, and global change affect ecological phases, states, transitions and thresholds in semi-arid rangeland ecosystems. If time permits, the Assistant may help evaluate Association member’s property as part of the Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances implementation. MAJOR DUTIES Collects soil and vegetation data and is responsible for quality assurance/quality control of data collected. Keeps exact, detailed records of experimental data. Provides data in an appropriate format for incorporation into computer spreadsheets. Makes and records observations of unusual happenings, phenomena or trends that might influence interpretation of plot or field data. Manages fieldwork program semi-autonomously; takes responsibility for solving problems and adapting to current conditions and events without constant supervision. Operates, maintains, cleans, repairs and constructs equipment used in plot and field experiments including, but not limited to, vehicles and field equipment. If time permits, the Assistant may participate in the development of livestock grazing management plans and may also collect ornithological or small mammal data. Ensures that all safety and environmental concerns are addressed to provide a safe work environment, and that activities in support of research in the Thunder Basin do not pose an environmental threat. KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS Technical knowledge of plant identification, structure and function of plant communities, and theory and practice of rangeland management, and a familiarity with the methods of biological sciences such as biology, chemistry, botany, etc, in order to participate responsibly in most phases of the experimental process. Experience with bird and/or small mammal wildlife survey techniques is beneficial. Ability to do efficient and high-quality work without direct supervision. Ability to proactively solve problems and manage tasks adaptively in order to get the job done on time. Skill in the use of personal computers to utilize software packages such as: word processing, data entry and manipulation in spreadsheets (e.g., Excel). Communication skills necessary to follow directions precisely and produce positive interactions with scientists, research personnel, and the general public. Knowledge of range science, soil science, general biology and ecology. Practical knowledge of general vehicle maintenance and repair. Knowledge of safe operating procedures when using equipment or vehicles. Knowledge of UTV operation and safety is beneficial. Practical knowledge of livestock management and nutrition for use in development of livestock grazing management plans. COMMUNICATION CONTACTS Personal contacts are broad including TBGPEA members; scientists, technicians and graduate students from other institutions or other federal agencies; action agencies; non-governmental organizations; vendors and contractors; state or local government entities; visitors and the general public. Personal contacts within the RRSRU involve support and assistance to scientists and support staff
[ECOLOG-L] Summer Jobs: Plant Ecology Research Assistants in Wyoming
Research assistants (2-3) Location of work: Thunder Basin National Grassland, Bill, WY Hours of work: 40 hours per week (4 x 10 hour days per week) Salary: $2400 per month. Housing is provided. Three days of PTO and two holidays included. Dates: May 21 - August 16, 2018. Applications received on or before February 9, 2018 will be considered. Send application materials (cover letter, resume, references) and/or questions to: Dave Pellatz Executive Director Thunder Basin Grasslands Prairie Ecosystem Association 671 Steinle Rd Douglas, WY 82633 307-359-1328 d...@rswyoming.com and copy to: Lauren Porensky Research Ecologist Rangeland Resources Systems Research Unit USDA-ARS 1701 Centre Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80526 USA 970.492.7139 lauren.poren...@ars.usda.gov GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION Research assistant for the Thunder Basin Prairie Ecosystem Association (TBGPEA). TBGPEA is a non-profit organization established to provide private landowner leadership in developing a responsible, science-based approach to long-term management of the lands of its members. Over the last ten years the Association has focused its efforts on developing ecosystem-based conservation measures. These measures are designed to address the habitat needs of species of concern in northeastern Wyoming in balance with the need for sustainable economic and social activities and preservation of cultural values. TBGPEA is collaborating with the USDA-ARS Rangeland Resources Systems Research Unit (RRSRU) to develop new knowledge about ecological processes in Thunder Basin and apply this knowledge to improved management for production and conservation objectives. The Research Assistant will be supervised by the Board of TBGPEA with input from RRSRU scientists. The Assistant will be responsible for collecting scientific data from field experiments to evaluate how climate, fire, soils, grazing management, and global change affect ecological phases, states, transitions and thresholds in semi-arid rangeland ecosystems. If time permits, the Assistant may help evaluate Association member’s property as part of the Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances implementation. MAJOR DUTIES Collects soil and vegetation data and is responsible for quality assurance/quality control of data collected. Keeps exact, detailed records of experimental data. Provides data in an appropriate format for incorporation into computer spreadsheets. Makes and records observations of unusual happenings, phenomena or trends that might influence interpretation of plot or field data. Manages fieldwork program semi-autonomously; takes responsibility for solving problems and adapting to current conditions and events without constant supervision. Operates, maintains, cleans, repairs and constructs equipment used in plot and field experiments including, but not limited to, vehicles and field equipment. If time permits, the Assistant may participate in the development of livestock grazing management plans and may also collect ornithological or small mammal data. Ensures that all safety and environmental concerns are addressed to provide a safe work environment, and that activities in support of research in the Thunder Basin do not pose an environmental threat. KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS Technical knowledge of plant identification, structure and function of plant communities, and theory and practice of rangeland management, and a familiarity with the methods of biological sciences such as biology, chemistry, botany, etc, in order to participate responsibly in most phases of the experimental process. Experience with bird and/or small mammal wildlife survey techniques is beneficial. Ability to do efficient and high-quality work without direct supervision. Ability to proactively solve problems and manage tasks adaptively in order to get the job done on time. Skill in the use of personal computers to utilize software packages such as: word processing, data entry and manipulation in spreadsheets (e.g., Excel). Communication skills necessary to follow directions precisely and produce positive interactions with scientists, research personnel, and the general public. Knowledge of range science, soil science, general biology and ecology. Practical knowledge of general vehicle maintenance and repair. Knowledge of safe operating procedures when using equipment or vehicles. Knowledge of UTV operation and safety is beneficial. Practical knowledge of livestock management and nutrition for use in development of livestock grazing management plans. COMMUNICATION CONTACTS Personal contacts are broad including TBGPEA members; scientists, technicians and graduate students from other institutions or other federal agencies; action agencies; non-governmental organizations; vendors and contractors; state or local government entities; visitors and the general public. Personal contacts within the RRSRU involve support and assistance
[ECOLOG-L] Summer Job in Northeast Wyoming
The Thunder Basin Grasslands Prairie Ecosystem Association is hiring for a summer field technician based in Northeast Wyoming! Weekend transportation to/from Fort Collins is available. Review of applications will begin February 6, 2017. Please see below for more information. Location of work: Thunder Basin National Grassland, Bill, WY Hours of work: 40 hours per week (4 x 10 hour days per week) Salary: $2250 to $2580 per month, depending on experience. Housing is provided. Dates: May 22 - August 17, 2017 Email application materials (cover letter, resume, references) and/or questions to: Dave Pellatz Executive Director Thunder Basin Grasslands Prairie Ecosystem Association 671 Steinle Rd Douglas, WY 82633 307-359-1328 d...@rswyoming.com and copy to: Lauren Porensky Research Ecologist Rangeland Resources Systems Research Unit USDA-ARS 1701 Centre Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80526 USA 970.492.7139 lauren.poren...@ars.usda.gov GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION Research assistant for the Thunder Basin Prairie Ecosystem Association (TBGPEA). TBGPEA is a non-profit organization established to provide private landowner leadership in developing a responsible, science-based approach to long-term management of the lands of its members. Over the last ten years the Association has focused its efforts on developing ecosystem-based conservation measures. These measures are designed to address the habitat needs of species of concern in northeastern Wyoming in balance with the need for sustainable economic and social activities and preservation of cultural values. TBGPEA is collaborating with the USDA-ARS Rangeland Resources and Systems Research Unit (RRSRU) to develop new knowledge about ecological processes in Thunder Basin and apply this knowledge to improved management for production and conservation objectives. The Research Assistant will be supervised by the Board of TBGPEA with input from RRSRU scientists. The Assistant will be responsible for collecting scientific data from field experiments to evaluate how climate, fire, soils, grazing management, and global change affect ecological phases, states, transitions and thresholds in semi-arid rangeland ecosystems. If time permits, the Assistant may help evaluate Association member’s property as part of the Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances implementation. MAJOR DUTIES Collects soil and vegetation data and is responsible for quality assurance/quality control of data collected. Keeps exact, detailed records of experimental data. Provides data in an appropriate format for incorporation into computer spreadsheets. Makes and records observations of unusual happenings, phenomena or trends that might influence interpretation of plot or field data. Manages fieldwork program semi-autonomously; takes responsibility for solving problems and adapting to current conditions and events without constant supervision. Operates, maintains, cleans, repairs and constructs equipment used in plot and field experiments including, but not limited to, vehicles and field equipment. If time permits, the Assistant may participate in the development of livestock grazing management plans and may also collect ornithological or small mammal data. Ensures that all safety and environmental concerns are addressed to provide a safe work environment, and that activities in support of research in the Thunder Basin do not pose an environmental threat. KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS Technical knowledge of plant identification, structure and function of plant communities, and theory and practice of rangeland management, and a familiarity with the methods of biological sciences such as biology, chemistry, botany, etc, in order to participate responsibly in most phases of the experimental process. Experience with bird and/or small mammal wildlife survey techniques is beneficial. Ability to do efficient and high-quality work without direct supervision. Ability to proactively solve problems and manage tasks adaptively in order to get the job done on time. Skill in the use of personal computers to utilized software packages such as: word processing, data entry and manipulation in spreadsheets (e.g., Excel). Communication skills necessary to follow directions precisely and produce positive interactions with scientists, research personnel, and the general public. Knowledge of range science, soil science, general biology and ecology. Practical knowledge of general vehicle maintenance and repair. Knowledge of safe operating procedures when using equipment or vehicles. Knowledge of UTV operation and safety is beneficial. Practical knowledge of livestock management and nutrition for use in development of livestock grazing management plans. COMMUNICATION CONTACTS Personal contacts are broad including TBGPEA members; scientists, technicians and graduate students from other institutions or other federal agencies; action agencies; non-governmental organizations; vendors and contractors; state or local
[ECOLOG-L] JOB for Remote Sensing Specialist, Fort Collins, closes Thursday June 23
The Rangeland Resources Research Unit with USDA-ARS is hiring a Remote Sensing/GIS Specialist. The position will be based in Fort Collins, CO. This is a great opportunity for a spatial scientist with an ecological bent. The work will be varied and should provide some interesting challenges. Note that this position closes Thursday, June 23, 2016!! More details are on this website: https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/442026000 Lauren M. Porensky Research Ecologist Rangeland Resources Research Unit USDA-ARS 1701 Centre Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80526 USA 970.492.7139 lauren.poren...@ars.usda.gov
[ECOLOG-L] JOB: Paid Summer Internship focusing on plant and grazing ecology in Fort Collins
Are you looking for an opportunity to gain field and research experience related to the ecology and management of rangeland ecosystems? The Rangeland Resources Research Unit with USDA-ARS will be hiring a paid summer intern in 2016. The position will be based in Fort Collins, CO, and involve daily travel to the Central Plains Experimental Range to collect vegetation data from a novel agro-ecology experiment. This project will be managed primarily by the intern with active mentoring from Dr. Porensky. Interested applicants should email lauren.poren...@ars.usda.gov with a resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcript. More details are below and on this website: http://www.ars.usda.gov/Careers/docs.htm?docid=8536 Where: Fort Collins, Colorado, Rangeland Resources Research Unit Pay: $13.92/hour, full-time for 8 weeks. Start and end dates and schedule are somewhat flexible. Mentor Scientist: Dr. Lauren Porensky; lauren.poren...@ars.usda.gov Project Description: Since 2012, the Rangeland Resources Research Unit has led a multi-institution, interdisciplinary experiment focused on collaborative Adaptive Grazing Management (AGM) for semiarid rangelands. This project is part of the Long-Term Agro-ecosystem Research (LTAR) network and addresses decision-making by a diverse stakeholder group (ranchers; public and state land managers; and conservation/environmental non-government organizations). Cattle diet selection is a key influence on production and conservation objectives in this novel study. To complement ongoing measurements of cattle distribution patterns, diet quality and animal energy use, the college-level intern is needed to take direct measurements of cattle diet selectivity in different grazing management treatments by measuring tiller defoliation of key forage plants (such as western wheatgrass, a highly preferred grass) throughout the grazing season in permanently marked plots. Preferred/Required Experience/Education of Applicant: Must have at least one year of college. Some knowledge of principles of ecology and rangeland management are required. Skill in using computers for word processing and data entry is required. Communication skills to follow directions precisely and produce positive interactions with diverse stakeholders, research personnel, and the general public are required. Experience or coursework in plant ecology, plant identification, grazing management, and monitoring and assessment are preferred. Knowledge of semiarid rangeland ecosystems and livestock management and nutrition are preferred.
[ECOLOG-L] JOBS: Rangeland Restoration Interns and Crew Leader, Nevada and Arizona
Rangeland Restoration Research Job Titles: Research Assistants and Research Crew Leader Locations: North Kaibab Plateau, AZ; Dunphy, NV; Reno, NV Position Description: We are seeking highly motivated interns and one crew leader to join our research team for Summer 2016 (mid-May through early August). The possibility exists for one applicant to start as early as mid-March or early April. Millions of hectares in the western United States have been negatively impacted by cheatgrass invasion, which transforms high-diversity ecosystems providing many ecosystem services into low-diversity ecosystems providing few services. Once invasion begins, cheatgrass rapidly causes increased wildfire frequency and extent. Burned sites have reduced soil quality, low plant biodiversity, little forage for livestock and wildlife, and simplified habitat structure. Moreover, burned sites are highly susceptible to further cheatgrass invasion. This project is investigating innovative techniques for reducing fire size and return interval in cheatgrass-invaded landscapes. Our goals are to determine how best to combine seed enhancement technologies, greenstripping, and targeted grazing within the framework of integrated cheatgrass control in the Western US, as well as determine how moderate grazing influences the effectiveness of greenstrips. We hope that a combination of fuel breaks and targeted grazing may be able to prevent the spread of cheatgrass into uninvaded areas and improve the success of restoration projects on already invaded sites. Project collaborators include the University of Nevada, Reno, the USDA-ARS Rangeland Resources Research Unit (RRRU), the Grand Canyon Trust, the Kaibab National Forest, Arizona Game and Fish Department, and others. The position involves considerable travel to some beautiful parts of the western US; research sites are located in remote areas of northern Nevada and northern Arizona. Selected applicants will collect soil and vegetation data in the field and be responsible for quality assurance/quality control of data collected. They will keep exact, detailed records of experimental data, enter data into computer spreadsheets, and record observations of unusual happenings, phenomena or trends that might influence interpretation of plot or field data. Applicants will be supervised by Elizabeth Leger (University of Nevada, Reno) with field and logistical support from Lauren Porensky (USDA-ARS) and Ed Grumbine (Grand Canyon Trust). Lodging at the field sites will be provided. The job includes field trips to remote areas. The work environment is about 50% in the field and 50% in the lab or office. The work involves regular and recurring moderate risks and discomforts associated with working outdoors. Throughout the year, the person may encounter snakes, livestock, insects, dust and extremes of weather. Qualifications: --Applicants with a background in environmental science, natural resources, rangeland ecology, botany, or a related discipline are preferred. --Ability to do efficient and high-quality work without direct supervision. Ability to proactively solve problems, manage tasks adaptively in order to get the job done on time, and provide suggestions for conducting future research projects. Self-motivated, hard-working, and detail oriented applicants are preferred. --Technical knowledge of plant taxonomy, structure and function of plant communities. Experience with plant field sampling techniques such as visual cover estimation, line intercept, and line point intercept. --Plant identification skills and knowledge of Nevada and Arizona plants are highly preferred. --Communication skills necessary to follow directions precisely and produce positive interactions with scientists, research personnel, and the general public. --Skill in the use of personal computers to utilized software packages such as: word processing, data entry and manipulation in spreadsheets (e.g., MS Excel and Word). --Practical knowledge of general vehicle maintenance and repair. Knowledge of safe operating procedures when using equipment or vehicles. A valid driver’s license is required. --The work requires standing, walking, bending and lifting of objects weighing as much as 50 pounds. Certain phases of the work require extended (such as most of a work day) periods of standing, sitting, squatting/kneeling or walking while accomplishing detailed experimental procedures. Some procedures require stamina and endurance. Salary and Housing: $12 to $16/hr depending on experience and/or education. Workweek is typically 40 to 50 hrs. Job duration is 12-13 weeks. Housing and utilities are provided at field sites. USDA-ARS is an AA/EOE. To Apply: Review of applications will begin on February 22. Send letter of interest, resume, three letters of reference, and unofficial transcript by email to Elizabeth Leger and Lauren Porensky with the subject line “Rangeland Restoration Research Internship Application
[ECOLOG-L] Summer Job in Wyoming
GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION Research assistant for the Thunder Basin Prairie Ecosystem Association (TBGPEA). TBGPEA is a non-profit organization established to provide private landowner leadership in developing a responsible, science-based approach to long-term management of the lands of its members. Over the last ten years the Association has focused its efforts on developing ecosystem-based conservation measures. These measures are designed to address the habitat needs of species of concern in northeastern Wyoming in balance with the need for sustainable economic and social activities and preservation of cultural values. TBGPEA is collaborating with the USDA-ARS Rangeland Resources Research Unit (RRRU) to develop new knowledge about ecological processes in Thunder Basin and apply this knowledge to improved management for production and conservation objectives. The Research Assistant will be supervised by the Board of TBGPEA with input from RRRU scientists. The Assistant will be responsible for collecting scientific data from field experiments to evaluate how climate, fire, soils, grazing management, and global change affect ecological phases, states, transitions and thresholds in semi-arid rangeland ecosystems. If time permits, the Assistant may help evaluate Association member’s property as part of the Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances implementation. Location of work: Thunder Basin National Grassland, Bill, WY Hours of work: 40 hours per week (4 x 10 hour days per week) Salary: $2,400 per month, housing is provided Dates: May 23 - August 19, 2016 Send application materials (cover letter, resume, references) and/or questions to: Dave Pellatz Executive Director Thunder Basin Grasslands Prairie Ecosystem Association 671 Steinle Rd Douglas, WY 82633 307-359-1328 d...@rswyoming.com and copy to: Lauren Porensky Research Ecologist Rangeland Resources Research Unit USDA-ARS 1701 Centre Ave. Fort Collins, CO 80526 USA 970.492.7139 lauren.poren...@ars.usda.gov MAJOR DUTIES Collects soil, vegetation, and ornithological data and is responsible for quality assurance/quality control of data collected. Keeps exact, detailed records of experimental data. Provides data in an appropriate format for incorporation into computer spreadsheets. Makes and records observations of unusual happenings, phenomena or trends that might influence interpretation of plot or field data. Manages fieldwork program semi-autonomously; takes responsibility for solving problems and adapting to current conditions and events without constant supervision. Operates, maintains, cleans, repairs and constructs equipment used in plot and field experiments including, but not limited to, vehicles and field equipment. If time permits, the Assistant may participate in the development of livestock grazing management plans and may also collect small mammal data as part of the Association’s focus on black-tailed prairie dog and potential black-footed ferret habitat. Ensures that all safety and environmental concerns are addressed to provide a safe work environment, and that activities in support of research in the Thunder Basin do not pose an environmental threat. KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS Technical knowledge of plant taxonomy, structure and function of plant communities, and theory and practice of rangeland management, and a familiarity with the methods of biological sciences such as biology, chemistry, botany, etc, in order to participate responsibly in most phases of the experimental process. Experience with bird and/or small mammal wildlife survey techniques is beneficial. Ability to do efficient and high-quality work without direct supervision. Ability to proactively solve problems and manage tasks adaptively in order to get the job done on time. Skill in the use of personal computers to utilized software packages such as: word processing, data entry and manipulation in spreadsheets (e.g., Excel). Communication skills necessary to follow directions precisely and produce positive interactions with scientists, research personnel, and the general public. Knowledge of range science, soil science, general biology and ecology. Practical knowledge of general vehicle maintenance and repair. Knowledge of safe operating procedures when using equipment or vehicles. Knowledge of UTV operation and safety is beneficial. Practical knowledge of livestock management and nutrition for use in development of livestock grazing management plans. COMMUNICATION CONTACTS Personal contacts are broad including TBGPEA members; scientists, technicians and graduate students from other institutions or other federal agencies; action agencies; non-governmental organizations; vendors and contractors; state or local government entities; visitors and the general public. Personal contacts within the RRRU involve support and assistance to scientists and support staff. The purpose of personal contacts is to mutually accomplish technical and support
[ECOLOG-L] Job Announcement for Summer 2015
Rangeland Restoration Research Science Aid Location: Eastern Oregon Agricultural Research Center, Burns, Oregon Position Description: We are seeking two highly motivated interns to join our rangeland research team for Summer 2015. Millions of hectares in the western United States have been negatively impacted by cheatgrass invasion, which transforms high-diversity ecosystems providing many ecosystem services into low-diversity ecosystems providing few services. Once invasion begins, cheatgrass rapidly causes increased wildfire frequency and extent. Burned sites have reduced soil quality, low plant biodiversity, little forage for livestock and wildlife, and simplified habitat structure. Moreover, burned sites are highly susceptible to further cheatgrass invasion. This project is investigating innovative techniques for reducing fire size and return interval in cheatgrass-invaded landscapes. Our goals are to determine how best to combine seed enhancement technologies, greenstripping, and targeted grazing within the framework of integrated cheatgrass control in the Western US, as well as determine how moderate grazing influences the effectiveness of greenstrips. We hope that a combination of fuel breaks and targeted grazing may be able to weaken the feedback between fire and cheatgrass invasion by reducing fire size and fire frequency, preventing the spread of cheatgrass into uninvaded areas and improving the success of restoration projects on already invaded sites. Project collaborators include the University of Nevada, Reno, the USDA-ARS Rangeland Resources Research Unit (RRRU), the Grand Canyon Trust, the Kaibab National Forest, Arizona Game and Fish Department, and others. The position involves considerable travel to some beautiful parts of the western US; research sites are located in northern Nevada, northern Arizona, and eastern Oregon. Selected applicants will help develop and evaluate new seed enhancement technologies that are designed for overcoming the limiting factors impairing rangeland reseeding success. We are currently designing seed enhancement formulations that will 1) improve seed soil contact, 2) optimize the timing of seed germination, 3) facilitate seedling emergence, 4) increase moisture availability and plant survival, and 5) and other new and innovative technologies. Research will be conducted within growth chamber, greenhouse, and field experiments. Selected applicants will also collect soil and vegetation data in the field and be responsible for quality assurance/quality control of data collected. They will keep exact, detailed records of experimental data, enter data into computer spreadsheets, and record observations of unusual happenings, phenomena or trends that might influence interpretation of plot or field data. Applicants will be supervised by Matthew Madsen (USDA-ARS) with field and logistical support from Lauren Porensky (USDA-ARS), Elizabeth Leger (University of Nevada, Reno) and Ed Grumbine (Grand Canyon Trust). Lodging at the field sites will be provided. The job includes field trips to remote areas. The work environment is about 50% in the field and 50% in the lab or office. The work involves regular and recurring moderate risks and discomforts associated with working outdoors. Throughout the year, the person may encounter snakes, livestock, insects, dust and extremes of weather. Qualifications: --Applicants with a background in environmental science, natural resources, rangeland ecology, botany, or a related discipline are preferred. --Ability to do efficient and high-quality work without direct supervision. Ability to proactively solve problems, manage tasks adaptively in order to get the job done on time, and provide suggestions for conducting future research projects. Self-motivated, hard-working, and detail oriented applicants are preferred. --Technical knowledge of plant taxonomy, structure and function of plant communities. Experience with plant field sampling techniques. Plant identification skills and knowledge of Nevada and Arizona plants are preferred. --Communication skills necessary to follow directions precisely and produce positive interactions with scientists, research personnel, and the general public. --Skill in the use of personal computers to utilized software packages such as: word processing, data entry and manipulation in spreadsheets (e.g., MS Excel and Word). --Practical knowledge of general vehicle maintenance and repair. Knowledge of safe operating procedures when using equipment or vehicles. A valid driver’s license is required. --The work requires standing, walking, bending and lifting of objects weighing as much as 50 pounds. Certain phases of the work require extended (such as most of a work day) periods of standing, sitting, squatting/kneeling or walking while accomplishing detailed experimental procedures. Some procedures require stamina and endurance. Salary and Housing: $12.07 to $15.15/hr depending
