Botany Technicians and Crew leaders Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP) Missouri Department of Conservation/University of Missouri
Dates: May 17 August 19, 2010(a little earlier and later for crew leaders) Pay Rate: Ten crew members: $9.32/hr. Two crew leaders: $10.73/hr. Housing provided. Hours: 40 hrs/week (4 ten-hour work days) Positions to be filled: 10 crew members, 2 crew leaders. (8 in Ellington, MO; 4 at Peck Ranch near Winona) Duties: Botany technicians identify over 500 plants to species level(often small and vegetative), estimate plant coverage, canopy closure and count soft mast fruits. Data are entered electronically into Trimble Ranger/Nomad electronic data collectors. Crews navigate to plots using Garmin GPS units and topographical maps. In addition to all of these tasks,crew leaders supervise the crews, download data from the electronic data collectors, check data for accuracy, and make daily assignments. Qualifications: College coursework toward a degree in natural resources: coursework in botany, taxonomy, ecology and forestry preferred. Bachelors degree required for crew leaders. Valid drivers license required. Preference will be given to candidates who have completed a field botany and/or taxonomy class and/or exhibit strong botanical skills. Intensive botanical training will be provided, but basic taxonomic knowledge is a prerequisite for the training. Successful applicants will be detail- oriented, able to communicate effectively, and able to cheerfully endure harsh field conditions (heat, humidity, ticks, chiggers, gnats, spiders, snakes, briars and steep terrain). If you love learning about plants and natural communities, this is your job! The Missouri Ozark Forest Ecosystem Project (MOFEP) is a nationally- renowned, long-term study of the effects of forest management on multiple aspects of the ecosystem. Many natural resource professionals have begun their career working on this project over the last 19 years. Understanding plants gives you an important competitive edge when applying for most natural resource professions. You will learn to identify hundreds of forest, woodland and glade plant species. This position is a great opportunity to hone your botany skills, learn about forest ecology and natural communities, and to interact with other students and professionals in the natural resources field. We are centered in the heart of the beautiful Ozark Mountains, providing ample opportunities for botanizing and hiking, and swimming and canoeing in the stunningly beautiful Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. Housing is provided and is located on conservation land. APPLCATION DEADLINE:February 8, 2010 For more information and application instructions, contact: Susan Farrington 551 Joe Jones Blvd. West Plains MO 65775 susan.farring...@mdc.mo.gov Phone (417) 255-9561 ext. 307Fax (417) 256-0429
