Natural Reserves Field Researcher - Wildlife Monitoring

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INITIAL REVIEW DATE (IRD)

Application materials submitted by 11:59 pm on the IRD will be routed to the hiring unit for consideration. Materials submitted after the IRD will ONLY be forwarded at the request of the hiring unit. To ensure your application is routed for consideration, submit your materials before 11:59 p.m. on the IRD.  Talent Acquisition cannot accept application materials outside of the jobs portal, and is unable to update submitted applications on an applicant's behalf, or forward communications to the hiring units. For more information about the IRD and the applicant review process, view this link .

The IRD for this job is: 03-06-2024

ABOUT UC SANTA CRUZ

UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It's known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation is part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The mission of the Natural Reserve System is to contribute to the understanding and wise management of the Earth and its natural systems by supporting university-level teaching, research, and public service at protected natural areas throughout California.

JOB SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) Campus Reserve Manager, the Field Researcher assists with implementation and design of field research projects and monitoring of wildlife, invertebrate populations, and plants at the UCSC Natural Reserves and natural areas. In addition to these tasks, they support research and teaching efforts by overseeing interns, working closely with faculty and staff, and facilitating class field trips through a variety of logistical specialized support (e.g. driving vans, providing expertise on specific taxonomic groups, etc.).

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

Budgeted Salary: $27.16 - $32.04/hour.  Salary commensurate with skills, qualifications and experience.
Under California law, the University of California, Santa Cruz is required to post a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. The salary shown above is the budgeted amount the University reasonably expects to pay and the salary extended should not exceed this posted amount.

Benefits Level Eligibility: Core benefits

Schedule Information:

• Part-time, Variable
• Percentage of Time: 60%, 24 Hours per Week
• Days of the Week: Any day of the week, schedule to be set up with supervisor
• Shift Includes: Day, Weekend

Employee Classification: Limited appointment 

Job End Date: 06-28-2024, with possibility of extension

Work Location: UC Santa Cruz Main Campus

Union Representation: Non-Represented

Job Code Classification: 005190 (FIELD RESEARCHER 2)

Travel: Up to 25% of the time

JOB DUTIES

60% - Data Collection

• Collects data for projects at Natural Reserves and other natural areas. Has experience surveying for California Red-legged Frog and Ohlone Tiger Beetle. Trains/oversees volunteers and students to ensure proper data collection protocols are in place (e.g. cover board surveys, invertebrate surveys, amphibian surveys, etc.).

20% - Research and Teaching Ambassador

• Serves as a research ambassador to interpret research projects for classes and other members of the public that visit Natural Reserves. Also, contacts agencies and research partners as needed to coordinate planning and supports class logistics as needed.

10% - Data Input and Reporting

• Compiles data and user information in written and electronic format into reports for regulatory agencies. Uses kaleidoscope to analyze acoustic data to determine California Red-legged Frog presence.

5% - Policies

• Assists with assessing and monitoring policies and procedures for remote field sites and / or research studies. Evaluates and investigates opportunities for improvement.

5% - Training

• Participates in training activities on research methods and measurement to research partners.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience and / or training.
• Working knowledge of research discipline, principles, concepts, analysis and / or operations being conducted at field / remote sites.
• Demonstrates ability to work independently and with a team, and to meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrates attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Demonstrates ability to work in ambiguous conditions and take relevant responsible action as required.
• Proficient research and analytical skills.
• Strong communication skills with research partners and project team members.
• Experience with field sampling and specimen preparation.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Working knowledge of operations at field sites.
• Demonstrates ability to develop and maintain relationships and partnerships with research partners.
• Working knowledge of safety, legal, cultural and regulatory requirements relative to field research responsibility.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Selected candidate will be required to pass a pre-employment criminal history background check.
• Must possess a valid license to drive in the state of California.
• Ability to work long periods of time at a computer with or without accommodation.
• Ability to perform work in a rugged physical environment and inclement weather with challenging infrastructure requirements.
• Ability to walk to and work in remote areas with rugged terrain, heavy brush, biting and stinging insects, bears and mountain lions.
• Poison Oak is present. Incumbent must be willing to take the measures required to work in contact with and cut/remove poison oak.
• Ability to conduct outdoor site visits, including use of required personal protective equipment, as required to conduct investigations, inspections, or view work in place.
• The selected candidate will be required to work all scheduled hours on-site.
• Ability to work overtime including evenings, nights, weekends and holidays to meet operational needs, and work an alternate work schedule shift as required.
• Selected candidate will be required to complete training within established time frames as directed including UC compliance training.
• Ability to travel to multiple work locations on and off campus.
• The University of California has implemented a Vaccination Policy covering all employees. Employees, including new hires, are required to comply with any applicable policies relating to the University of California vaccine program.
• Per the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA), this position has been identified as a Mandated Reporter. The selected candidate will be required to report known or suspected child abuse or neglect as defined by CANRA and will be required to sign a Statement Acknowledging Requirement to Report Child Abuse prior to commencing employment. CANRA Penal Codes, and related definitions, requirements, and responsibilities may be obtained here .

SAFETY STATEMENT

All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.

EEO/AA

The University of California is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. UC Santa Cruz is committed to excellence through diversity and strives to establish a climate that welcomes, celebrates, and promotes respect for the contributions of all students and employees.