Botanical Field Biologist

POSITION

Several Botanical Field Biologist (Temporary Hourly) position is available with the Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (CEMML). Positions are assigned to the Natural Resources Office (NRO) at Pōhakuloa Training Area (PTA). NRO supports military training and land use through compliance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and botanical field biologists provide field labor to accomplish ESA mandates. Positions are for 8 weeks (approximately June 4 - July 27) with the potential for extension beyond initial term for up to 9 months. Apply by May 6, 2018.

ORGANIZATION

CEMML is a research, education and service unit within the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University (CSU). CEMML applies the latest and most appropriate science to promote the sustainable management of natural and cultural resources on Department of Defense and other public lands. We provide technical support, conduct applied research, and offer career development and learning opportunities to support resource stewardship. We collaborate with our sponsors and within CSU to resolve complex environmental issues, leaving a legacy of science-based decisions that sustain our resources for future generations.

LOCATION

Pōhakuloa Training Area (PTA) is located on the Island of Hawai‘i. PTA is a 133,000-acre Army training facility located at 2,500 – 8,000 feet elevation in the saddle region between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. PTA provides year-round training for the 25th Infantry Division Light and 3rd Marine Regiment, as well as other US services and foreign allies. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

The team member will implement natural resource management actions in the field such as plant surveys, monitoring, seed collection and outplanting of federally listed species, and vegetation control. Management actions are conducted repeatedly and under difficult field conditions. Team members must consistently and accurately record, enter, and edit field data. Maintain field gear, equipment, vehicles, and facilities.

PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS

Team members are expected to conduct field work daily while hiking continuously for 6-8 hours covering distances of 5-10 kilometers on extremely rough terrain. The hiking conditions are very arduous, requiring stamina and agility. In some areas the terrain is young volcanic substrates, which can shift suddenly underfoot. In other areas the vegetation is dense necessitating bending, crawling, climbing, and stooping to successfully maneuver through.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The successful candidate must demonstrate U.S. employment eligibility; CEMML will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

• Experience or education in botany, natural resource management, environmental science, or related natural science.
• Demonstrated knowledge of plant identification, especially species found in Hawai‘i, including common native, rare, federally listed, and non-native species.
• Skills in field navigation with maps and the Global Positioning System (GPS).
• Applicant must have a valid driver's license. Employment is contingent upon completion of a background check.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with dichotomous keys to identify plant species.
• Experience with surveying and monitoring of vegetation and rare plants.
• Experience in seed collection, propagation, and outplanting of threatened and endangered species.
• Experience in manual, mechanical, and chemical control of non-native plants.  
• Demonstrated ability to hike for 6-8 hours and up to 10 kilometers per day while carrying field pack.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team setting.
• Experience with computers and software including the Microsoft Office Suite.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The positions are part of a team primarily conducting management activities in the natural environment. The team members are directed by a Field Crew Leader or Section Leader and supervised by the Botanical Program Manager. The Botanical Program is 1 of 6 sub-programs comprising the NRO. 

The NRO is located on the PTA installation, which is remote and requires a 45-60 minute unpaid daily commute. The work week is Monday to Thursday from 6:00 am to 4:30 pm. With the commute time and the 10-hour work days, the daily time commitment can exceed 12 hours. In addition, work sites at PTA are remote and can be an hour or more drive from the office over rough 4-wheel drive roads followed by long hours of hiking. Team members are expected to conduct field work daily while hiking continuously for 6-8 hours covering distances of 5-10 kilometers on extremely rough terrain. The hiking conditions are very arduous, requiring stamina and agility. In some areas the terrain is young volcanic substrates, which can shift suddenly underfoot. In other areas the vegetation is dense necessitating bending, crawling, climbing, and stooping to successfully maneuver through. Office work is occasional and desk space and a computer are provided. The position requires flexibility in assignments as well as work schedules with occasional weekend and after-hours work. Camping at remote work sites for up to 4 days at a time is required. Working in high hazard and impact areas where unexplored ordnance may be present is required. 

BACKGROUND CHECK

Colorado State University is committed to providing a safe and productive learning and living community. To achieve that goal, we conduct background investigations for all final candidates being considered for employment. Background checks may include, but are not limited to, criminal history, national sex offender search, and motor vehicle history.

PAY RATE

Pay rate is $17.84 per hour. 

APPLICATION

Please email application materials to Steven A. Evans, evanssa@rams.colostate.edu. Apply by May 6, 2018. Please remove social security numbers and birthdates from application materials. A complete application consists of:

• Statement of Qualifications (letter addressing each of the minimum and desirable qualifications described in announcement)
• Resume
• Degree Conferral (copy of diploma if transcripts do not include confirmation that degree was awarded) if appropriate
• References (contact information for professional references, including at least 1 supervisor)

Colorado State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity or expression. Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce, and complies with all federal and Colorado state laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. The Office of Equal Opportunity is located in 101 Student Services.

Reflecting departmental and institutional values, candidates are expected to have the ability to advance the Department's commitment to diversity and inclusion.