Biological Science Technician: Various Locations, NV

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Agency

Great Basin Institute

Location

Various Locations, NV

Job Category

Temporary/Seasonal Positions

Salary

$840 biweekly

Last Date to Apply

06/30/2022

Website

https://www.vscyberhosting.com/greatbasin/careers.aspx?rf=TAM&req=2022-ACI-007

Description

Invasive plants have been identified as a major threat to the biological diversity and ecological integrity in and near the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest (HTNF). Invasive plants displace native plants; reduce habitat and forage for wildlife and livestock; diminish populations of threatened, endangered, and sensitive species; alter soil properties and productivity; change the intensity and frequency of wildfires; and impact recreation opportunities. The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, is recruiting ten AmeriCorps Biological Science Technicians to participate in invasive non-native plant treatment, monitoring, and management projects for the forest's statewide noxious weed control program. The primary focus of this position will be the mechanical and chemical treatment of invasive and noxious weeds. Most of this work is conducted using backpack sprayers, UTV’s, and large 4WD spray vehicles traveling on remote 4WD roads. Appropriate personal protective equipment will be supplied by the Forest Service and utilized by Technicians at all times. A tablet with ArcCollector, Avenza Maps, and EDDMapS Pro, as well as a Garmin InReach device, will be used to record plant populations. Primary duties: - Treat invasive plant infestations (Treatments primarily involve using herbicides, but may also be accomplished by hand-pulling and/or using hand tools, power tools, mowers, and other standardized control methods); - Identify non-native plant species using various field guides and survey methods for target plants; - Collect data on infestation location and status; - Accurately and legibly record data related to invasive plant treatments according to specific protocols; and - Perform basic mathematical calculations related to herbicide mixing and applications. Additional Experience Opportunities: - Participating in range and ecology vegetation surveying. - Assistance with federal resume building and navigating USAjobs. Although a small portion of time may be dedicated to data entry and other office tasks, this is primarily a field-based position which requires physical labor and daily hiking. Technicians will often navigate using global positioning systems, topographic maps, and/or compass to remote locations in rugged terrain under possible adverse weather conditions. A training session including plant identification, herbicide safety, use of tablets and associated software, UTV operation, trailer towing, and first aid will be provided at the beginning of the field season. Great Basin Institute, founded at the University of Nevada Reno in 1998, is a mission-driven non-profit organization headquartered in the eastern foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. GBI has been a leader in the conservation stewardship field for over two decades, supporting thousands of individuals each pursuing a career in public land management or advancing their academic standing. Partnering with federal, state and local governments, as well as other NGOs and researchers, GBI supports projects in eleven western states ranging from Alaska to New Mexico, and southern California to northwestern Wyoming.

Qualifications

Technical requirements: - Knowledge and interest in botany and plant identification - prior experience with invasive plant management preferred; - Willingness to utilize chemical herbicide treatment methods, and ability to pass Nevada State Applicator exam (training and study time will be provided prior to the exam); - Experience utilizing hand-held GPS units or tablets for navigation and/or data collections preferred, along with basic computer skills; - Ability to carry backpack sprayer or up to 40 pounds in a backpack, and otherwise maintain good physical condition; - Experience operating 4WD trucks on and off-road, including mountainous forest roads, preferred; - Knowledge and experience in operating off highway vehicles such as Utility Terrain Vehicles (UTV) desirable; and - Experience with towing and backing-up a trailer, desirable. Additional requirements: - Ability to self-direct and self-motivate; - Possess good organizational skills; - Tolerant of working in variable weather conditions, willing and able to work outdoors in adverse weather conditions, and able to hike 2-5+ miles daily on uneven terrain; - Ability to work productively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals and follow safe working practices; - Communicate effectively with a diverse public; - Possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record; and - The successful applicant(s) must complete the following background checks: (1) AmeriCorps Criminal History Check (state and federal), (2) National Sex Offender registry check, and (3) USDA Forest Service background investigation.

Contact Person

Emily Daybell

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