Ecological Monitoring Soil and Vegetation Field Technician (Reno, NV)

The Great Basin Institute is an interdisciplinary field studies organization that promotes environmental research, education, and service through the west. The Institute’s mission is to advance applied science and ecological literacy through community engagement and agency partnerships, supporting national parks, forest, open spaces and public lands.

The Ecological Monitoring Program at GBI serves as an excellent professional development opportunity for natural resource professionals looking for experience in botanical, soil, and rangeland surveys. This Program is a component of our well-established Research Associate Program, which focuses on the conservation and management of natural, cultural, and recreation resources in the Intermountain West while providing emerging professionals opportunities to begin or enhance their careers.

GBI’s Ecological Monitoring Program is dedicated to providing college graduates and emerging professionals with hands-on survey, inventory, monitoring, and reporting experience in natural resource management. Extensive training and technical field skills development provides employees a unique opportunity to obtain valuable experience in executing monitoring protocols that will increase their employment success.

In one component of the Program, participants implement the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) strategy for terrestrial systems, targeted at collecting standardized ecological information and long-term vegetation data at multiple scales across western BLM districts. In some instances participants may perform supplemental protocols such as Habitat Assessment Framework (HAF) (to inform conservation approaches for sage-grouse). Supplemental sampling may also include collecting data on forb diversity, annual production and pollinators, among other indicators.

This video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LciTBPG2-Ss&feature=youtu.be) highlights the national BLM AIM strategy for landscape-scale data capture across western states.

Description:
GBI is recruiting Ecological Monitoring Soils and Vegetation Field Technicians to work with GBI and BLM staff. Each Field Tech will work with one other technician under the supervision of a Field Lead to characterize vegetation using the terrestrial AIM core methods. In some instances, Habitat Assessment Framework (HAF), and/or other supplemental protocols will be performed, for which training will be provided. Aside from core AIM sampling, any supplemental protocols implemented will vary by location.

Duties include following established field protocols to perform vegetation sampling and field data collection at new and existing sampling plots. Data will be used by resource specialists and land managers to inform decisions regarding land management at various temporal and spatial scales. During field work, car camping for 7 night “hitches” in remote locations will typically be required.

Depending on performance and completion of work term this position can qualify for Public Lands Corps (PLC) status given that the applicant is 30 years old or younger at the time of GBI employment. This certificate allows for non-competitive status for future federal job applications and will last two years from the end of GBI employment.

Field work will include:
• Maintaining safety awareness and practices;
• Extensive 4x4 driving on unmaintained roads;
• Navigating off-trail to sampling sites;
• Establishing sampling plots and transects;
• Identifying and describing soil horizons to help verify ecological site descriptions (ESDs);
• Collecting vegetation data (including species inventory, forb diversity, species abundance, sagebrush shape, foliar cover, canopy gap, and herbaceous and woody heights);
• Taking photo-points.

Additional duties include:
• Regular communication with GBI support staff and agency staff;
• Participation in GBI and agency trainings;
• Entering data into both Field Maps and Survey 123 software;
• Identifying plants to species using dichotomous keys; and
• Employing extensive QA/QC data checks.

Compensation:
Total approximate compensation: $2990/month before taxes (including benefits the approximate hourly equivalent: $18.69/hour), plus health insurance (monthly premiums fully paid by GBI) and paid time off.

• $15.50/hour
• $150 bi-weekly housing stipend*
• $15 per diem for every night camped in the field (up
to 7 units in an 8 day work week)
• Affordable Care Act Compliant Health insurance
including vision and dental provided at no cost to
the employee starting the first day of the month
following employment start date.
• Paid federal holidays
• Paid personal time off (amount dependent on contract
length)

*Housing stipend is untaxed and can be used at the discretion of the applicant. Housing is not provided. Applicants must be able to provide their own lodging.

Contract Timeline:
Locations and timelines listed below are tentative, some with potential for extension. Crews will be based out of either the Las Vegas or Reno GBI Offices but work in the following BLM Field Office (FO’s) areas:

California:

Northern California Project:
• Redding, Applegate and Eagle Lake Field Offices
• April 11th - September 30th
• 3-person soils and vegetation monitoring crew
Bishop Project:
• Bishop Field Office
• April 11th - September 2nd
• 3-person soils and vegetation monitoring crew

Nevada:

Nevada Statewide Project:
• Battle Mountain, Carson City, Elko, and Winnemucca District Offices
• April 11th -August 12th
• 3-person soils and vegetation monitoring crew

Elko ESR Project:
• Elko District Office
• April 11th -July 22nd
• 3-person vegetation monitoring crew with ~33% of points requiring soil sampling

Winnemucca ESR Project:
• Winnemucca District Office
• April 11th-August 5th
• 3-person vegetation monitoring crew with ~33% of points requiring soil sampling

Required Qualifications:

• Leadership experience, including supervising field crews and managing projects simultaneously.

• Experience, education, or a combination of both in botany and/or range management to meet the following(Crew Leads should have education and experience with plants identification):

• Bachelor’s degree in botany, biology, ecology, or rangeland ecology or other natural resources.
• At least 9 semester hours in plant or biological sciences.

AND/OR

• Bachelor’s degree in plant or soil science or similar with at least 9 semester hours in soils or a minimum of 1 year of field data collection describing soils. Any of the 4 certifications from the Soil Science Society of America may substitute for education or experience.

*Some Projects require a relevant Bachelor’s Degree.

​

Technical requirements:
• Experience identifying plants in the field and using a dichotomous key;
• Experience conducting plant surveys using various monitoring protocols, including standard rangeland monitoring protocols, photo plots, and site observations;
• Experience in describing and identifying soil horizons; familiarity with NRCS soils databases and Ecological Site Descriptions concepts preferred;
• Experience conducting plant surveys using various monitoring protocols, photo plots, and site observations;
• Experience with data entry and management;
• Experience with technical writing and/or producing written project summary reports;
• Ability to read, interpret and navigate using topographic maps;
• Experience safely operating 4WD trucks on paved and unpaved roads, often in remote areas on unimproved roads;
• Experience navigating and collecting coordinates with hand-held GPS units;
• Experience creating maps and performing basic functions with GIS software (ArcMap);
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access); and
• Experience with Field Maps, Survey 123, and ArcGIS Online.

Additional requirements:
• Willingness and ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic setting, and to consistently enact high performance standards and a strong work and team ethic in support of the goals and objectives of the AIM program and the mission of GBI;
• Willingness to mentor and foster professional development for members of your crew;
• Valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record;
• Familiarity with native and invasive plants of the sampling area and associated natural resource issues preferred;
• Ability to work productively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals;
• Ability to work independently;
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members, agency staff, and a diverse public;
• Ability to accurately complete administrative tasks on time i.e. timesheet, paperwork, etc;
• Excellent organizational skills;
• Familiarity with best practices for field safety and Leave No Trace principles;
• Experience in and willingness to spend up to seven consecutive nights camping with no amenities in remote locations;
• Willingness to work irregular hours (e.g., early mornings, late nights); and
• Ability to work in harsh and rapidly changing environments, work in all types of weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, carry upwards of 40 pounds in a backpack, and otherwise maintain good physical condition.

Please indicate your availability and location/project preferences in your cover letter when applying. Application review will continue until all positions are filled. We encourage applying early to gain the best chance of getting top-choice locations. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.

Please apply at: https://www.vscyberhosting.com/greatbasin/careers.aspx?rf=ASPT&req=2021-AIM-016

Ecological Monitoring Soil and Vegetation Field Lead (Reno, NV)

The Great Basin Institute is an interdisciplinary field studies organization that promotes environmental research, education, and service through the west. The Institute’s mission is to advance applied science and ecological literacy through community engagement and agency partnerships, supporting national parks, forest, open spaces and public lands.

The Ecological Monitoring Program at GBI serves as an excellent professional development opportunity for natural resource professionals looking for experience in botanical, soil, and rangeland surveys. This Program is a component of our well-established Research Associate Program, which focuses on the conservation and management of natural, cultural, and recreation resources in the Intermountain West while providing emerging professionals opportunities to begin or enhance their careers.

GBI’s Ecological Monitoring Program is dedicated to providing college graduates and emerging professionals with hands-on survey, inventory, monitoring, and reporting experience in natural resource management. Extensive training and technical field skills development provides employees a unique opportunity to obtain valuable experience in executing monitoring protocols that will increase their employment success.

In one component of the Program, participants implement the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) strategy for terrestrial systems, targeted at collecting standardized ecological information and long-term vegetation data at multiple scales across western BLM districts. In some instances participants may perform supplemental protocols such as Habitat Assessment Framework (HAF) (to inform conservation approaches for sage-grouse). Supplemental sampling may also include collecting data on forb diversity, annual production and pollinators, among other indicators.

This video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LciTBPG2-Ss&feature=youtu.be) highlights the national BLM AIM strategy for landscape-scale data capture across western states.

Description:
GBI is recruiting Ecological Monitoring Soils and Vegetation Field Leads to work with GBI and BLM staff. Each Field Lead will coordinate a field crew (one Lead will supervise two Technicians) to characterize vegetation using the terrestrial AIM core methods. In some instances, Habitat Assessment Framework (HAF), and/or other supplemental protocols will be performed, for which training will be provided. Aside from core AIM sampling, any supplemental protocols implemented will vary by location.

Duties include following established field protocols to perform vegetation sampling and field data collection at new and existing sampling plots. Data will be used by resource specialists and land managers to inform decisions regarding land management at various temporal and spatial scales. During field work, car camping for 7 night “hitches” in remote locations will typically be required.

Depending on performance and completion of work term this position can qualify for Public Lands Corps (PLC) status given that the applicant is 30 years old or younger at the time of GBI employment. This certificate allows for non-competitive status for future federal job applications and will last two years from the end of GBI employment.

Field work will include:
• Maintaining safety awareness and practices;
• Extensive 4x4 driving on unmaintained roads;
• Navigating off-trail to sampling sites;
• Establishing sampling plots and transects;
• Identifying and describing soil horizons to help verify ecological site descriptions (ESDs);
• Collecting vegetation data (including species inventory, forb diversity, species abundance, sagebrush shape, foliar cover, canopy gap, and herbaceous and woody heights);
• Taking photo-points.

Additional duties include:
• Regular communication with GBI support staff and agency staff;
• Participation in GBI and agency trainings;
• Entering data into both Field Maps and Survey 123 software;
• Identifying plants to species using dichotomous keys; and
• Employing extensive QA/QC data checks.

Leadership:
• Supporting and managing a field crew;
• Coordinating field logistics and scheduling; and
• Report writing and completing administrative paperwork
​
Compensation:
Total approximate compensation: $3358.30/month before taxes (approximate hourly equivalent: $20.99), plus health insurance (monthly premiums fully paid by GBI), end of season bonus, and paid time off.

Breakdown:

• $1,408 biweekly salary
• $150 bi-weekly housing stipend*
• $15 per diem for every night camped in the field (up to 7 units in an 8 day work week)
• $32.30/month cell phone stipend
• Affordable Care Act Compliant Health insurance including vision and dental provided at no cost to the employee starting the first day of the month following employment start date.
• Paid federal holidays
• Paid personal time off (amount dependent on contract length)

*Housing stipend is untaxed and can be used at the discretion of the applicant. Housing is not provided. Applicants must be able to provide their own lodging.
Delete

Contract Timelines:
Locations and timelines listed below are tentative, some with potential for extension. Crews will be based out of either the Las Vegas or Reno GBI Offices but work in the following BLM Field Office (FO’s) areas:

California:

Northern California Project:
• Redding, Applegate and Eagle Lake Field Offices
• April 4th - September 30th
• 3-person soils and vegetation monitoring crew
Bishop Project:
• Bishop Field Office
• April 4th - September 2nd
• 3-person soils and vegetation monitoring crew

Nevada:

Nevada Statewide Project:
• Battle Mountain, Carson City, Elko, and Winnemucca District Offices
• April 4th -August 12th
• 3-person soils and vegetation monitoring crew

Elko ESR Project:
• Elko District Office
• April 4th -July 22nd
• 3-person vegetation monitoring crew with ~33% of points requiring soil sampling

Winnemucca ESR Project:
• Winnemucca District Office
• April 4th-August 5th
• 3-person vegetation monitoring crew with ~33% of points requiring soil sampling

Required Qualifications:

• Leadership experience, including supervising field crews and managing projects simultaneously.

• Experience, education, or a combination of both in botany and/or range management to meet the following(Crew Leads should have education and experience with plants identification):

• Bachelor’s degree in botany, biology, ecology, or rangeland ecology or other natural resources.
• At least 9 semester hours in plant or biological sciences.

AND/OR

• Bachelor’s degree in plant or soil science or similar with at least 9 semester hours in soils or a minimum of 1 year of field data collection describing soils. Any of the 4 certifications from the Soil Science Society of America may substitute for education or experience.

*Some Projects require a relevant Bachelor’s Degree.

Technical requirements:
• Experience identifying plants in the field and using a dichotomous key;
• Experience conducting plant surveys using various monitoring protocols, including standard rangeland monitoring protocols, photo plots, and site observations;
• Experience in describing and identifying soil horizons; familiarity with NRCS soils databases and Ecological Site Descriptions concepts preferred;
• Experience conducting plant surveys using various monitoring protocols, photo plots, and site observations;
• Experience with data entry and management;
• Experience with technical writing and/or producing written project summary reports;
• Ability to read, interpret and navigate using topographic maps;
• Experience safely operating 4WD trucks on paved and unpaved roads, often in remote areas on unimproved roads;
• Experience navigating and collecting coordinates with hand-held GPS units;
• Experience creating maps and performing basic functions with GIS software (ArcMap);
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access); and
• Experience with Field Maps, Survey 123, and ArcGIS Online.

Additional requirements:
• Willingness and ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic setting, and to consistently enact high performance standards and a strong work and team ethic in support of the goals and objectives of the AIM program and the mission of GBI;
• Willingness to mentor and foster professional development for members of your crew;
• Valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record;
• Familiarity with native and invasive plants of the sampling area and associated natural resource issues preferred;
• Ability to work productively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals;
• Ability to work independently;
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members, agency staff, and a diverse public;
• Ability to accurately complete administrative tasks on time i.e. timesheet, paperwork, etc;
• Excellent organizational skills;
• Familiarity with best practices for field safety and Leave No Trace principles;
• Experience in and willingness to spend up to seven consecutive nights camping with no amenities in remote locations;
• Willingness to work irregular hours (e.g., early mornings, late nights); and
• Ability to work in harsh and rapidly changing environments, work in all types of weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, carry upwards of 40 pounds in a backpack, and otherwise maintain good physical condition.
​
Please indicate your availability and location/project preferences in your cover letter when applying. Application review will continue until all positions are filled. We encourage applying early to gain the best chance of getting top-choice locations. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.

Please apply at: https://www.vscyberhosting.com/greatbasin/careers.aspx?rf=ASPT&req=2021-AIM-015

Ecological Monitoring Soil Scientist (Las Vegas, Nevada)

The Great Basin Institute is an interdisciplinary field studies organization that promotes environmental research, education, and service through the west. The Institute’s mission is to advance applied science and ecological literacy through community engagement and agency partnerships, supporting national parks, forest, open spaces and public lands.

The Ecological Monitoring Program at GBI serves as an excellent professional development opportunity for natural resource professionals looking for experience in botanical, soil, and rangeland surveys. This Program is a component of our well-established Research Associate Program, which focuses on the conservation and management of natural, cultural, and recreation resources in the Intermountain West while providing emerging professionals opportunities to begin or enhance their careers.

GBI’s Ecological Monitoring Program is dedicated to providing college graduates and emerging professionals with hands-on survey, inventory, monitoring, and reporting experience in natural resource management. Extensive training and technical field skills development provides employees a unique opportunity to obtain valuable experience in executing monitoring protocols that will increase their employment success.

In one component of the Program, participants implement the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) strategy for terrestrial systems, targeted at collecting standardized ecological information and long-term vegetation data at multiple scales across western BLM districts. In some instances participants may perform supplemental protocols such as Habitat Assessment Framework (HAF) (to inform conservation approaches for sage-grouse). Supplemental sampling may also include collecting data on forb diversity, annual production and pollinators, among other indicators.

This video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LciTBPG2-Ss&feature=youtu.be) highlights the national BLM AIM strategy for landscape-scale data capture across western states.

This project is working within the BLM California Desert District (CDD) and in addition to collecting standard AIM data, this project will assist the NRCS with soil mapping and ecological site development at sites within the DRECP/CDD designs. The Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan (DRECP) is focused on 10.8 million acres of public lands in the desert regions of seven California counties – Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego. It is a landscape-level plan that streamlines renewable energy development while conserving unique and valuable desert ecosystems and providing outdoor recreation opportunities.

More information on the DRECP can be found here:
https://www.blm.gov/programs/planning-and-nepa/plans-in-development/california/desert-renewable-energy-conservation-plan​

Description:
GBI is recruiting two Ecological Monitoring Soil Scientists to work with GBI and BLM staff. Each Soil Scientist will coordinate a field crew (one Soil Scientist will supervise one Soil Technician). Each soil crew will collect a NASIS (National Soil Information System) quality Soil Pit Description. This is in effort to assist the NRCS (Natural Resource Conservation Service) with soil mapping and ecological site development in the hot deserts of California. Soil crews will complete a comprehensive soil pit description at each site, within the DRECP (Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan)/CDD (California Desert District) designs, using the NRCS Soil Pedon Description Form 232. This will be done at randomized sample locations across the DRECP/CDD areas where standard AIM data is also being collected by a separate dedicated vegetation crew.

In addition, the soil crew will also collect soil sample voucher collections for three specified plots determined by the BLM.

Data will be used by resource specialists and land managers to inform decisions regarding land management at various temporal and spatial scales.

During field work, car camping for 7 night “hitches” in remote locations will typically be required.

Depending on performance and completion of work term this position can qualify for Public Lands Corps (PLC) status given that the applicant is 30 years old or younger at the time of GBI employment. This certificate allows for non-competitive status for future federal job applications and will last two years from the end of GBI employment.

Field work will include:
• Maintaining safety awareness and practices;
• Extensive 4x4 driving on unmaintained roads;
• Navigating off-trail to sampling sites;
• Digging a NASIS (National Soil Information System) Quality Soil Pit- minimum of 100cm and up to 200cm or contact with bedrock.
• Digging time can potentially take more than three hours.
• Completing NRCS Soil Pedon Descriptions using NRCS Form 232.
• Collecting traditional AIM soil data by identifying and describing soil horizons
• Digging soil pits, delineating soil horizons, identifying soil texture classes using the hand texturing method, and describing soil structure
• Collecting soil sample vouchers
• Taking photo-points

Additional duties include:
• Regular communication with GBI support staff and agency staff;
• Participation in GBI and agency trainings;
• Entering data into both Field Maps and Survey 123 software;
• Managing ArcGIS Online databases;
• Employing extensive QA/QC data checks; and
• Leadership:
• Supporting and managing a field crew;
• Coordinating field logistics and scheduling; and
• Report writing and completing administrative paperwork

Compensation:
• $1,800-2,120 bi-weekly salary (Depending on experience)
• $150 bi-weekly housing stipend*
• $15 per diem for every night camped in the field (up to 7 units in an 8-day work week)
• $32.30/month cell phone stipend
• Affordable Care Act Compliant Health insurance including vision and dental provided at no cost to the employee starting the first day of the month following employment start date.
• Paid federal holidays
• Paid personal time off (amount dependent on contract length)

*Housing stipend is untaxed and can be used at the discretion of the applicant. Housing is not provided. Applicants must be able to provide their own lodging.

Contract Timeline:

Locations and timelines listed below are tentative, some with potential for extension. Crews will be based out of the Las Vegas GBI Office but work in the following BLM Field Office (FO’s) areas.

California
Southern California Project:
• Southern California Desert District/ Bishop
Field Office;
• February 14th-July 8th
• 2-person soils monitoring only crews

Qualifications:

• Leadership experience, including supervising field crews and managing projects simultaneously. (preferred)
• Bachelor's degree with a major in soil science or a related discipline. The study must include 30 semester hours or equivalent in biological, physical, or earth science, including a minimum of 15 hours in such subjects as soil genesis, pedology, soil chemistry, soil physics, and soil fertility.

AND/OR

• Combination of education and experience-courses equivalent to a major in soil science or a related discipline that include at least 30 semester hours in the biological, physical, or earth sciences. At least 15 of these semester hours must be in the areas specified above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
• Certification: any of the 4 certifications from the Soil Science Society of America
• Familiarity and experience with the methods necessary for completing NRCS Form 232
• Familiarity with the USDA Soil classification Keys to Soil Taxonomy
• Familiarity of the primary soil orders found in the Mojave desert are the Aridisols, Inceptisols and Entisols.



Technical requirements:
• Familiarity with NRCS soils databases and Ecological Site Descriptions concepts
• Experience conducting soils surveys, digging soil pits, delineating soil horizons, identifying soil texture classes using the hand texturing method, and describing soil structure
• Experience with data entry and management;
• Experience with technical writing and/or producing written project summary reports;
• Ability to read, interpret and navigate using topographic maps;
• Experience safely operating 4WD trucks on paved and unpaved roads, often in remote areas on unimproved roads;
• Experience navigating and collecting coordinates with hand-held GPS units;
• Experience creating maps and performing basic functions with GIS software (ArcMap);
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access); and
• Experience with Field Maps, Survey 123, and ArcGIS Online.

Additional requirements:
• Willingness and ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic setting, and to consistently enact high performance standards and a strong work and team ethic in support of the goals and objectives of the AIM program and the mission of GBI;
• Willingness to mentor and foster professional development for members of your crew;
• Valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record;
• Familiarity with native and invasive plants of the sampling area and associated natural resource issues preferred;
• Ability to work productively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals;
• Ability to work independently;
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members, agency staff, and a diverse public;
• Ability to accurately complete administrative tasks on time i.e. timesheet, paperwork, etc;
• Excellent organizational skills;
• Familiarity with best practices for field safety and Leave No Trace principles;
• Experience in and willingness to spend up to seven consecutive nights camping with no amenities in remote locations;
• Willingness to work irregular hours (e.g., early mornings, late nights); and
• Ability to work in harsh and rapidly changing environments, work in all types of weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, carry upwards of 40 pounds in a backpack, and otherwise maintain good physical condition.

Please apply at: https://www.vscyberhosting.com/greatbasin/careers.aspx?rf=TAM&req=2021-AIM-007

Ecological Monitoring Soil Technicians (Las Vegas, NV)

The Great Basin Institute is an interdisciplinary field studies organization that promotes environmental research, education, and service through the west. The Institute’s mission is to advance applied science and ecological literacy through community engagement and agency partnerships, supporting national parks, forest, open spaces and public lands.


The Ecological Monitoring Program at GBI serves as an excellent professional development opportunity for natural resource professionals looking for experience in botanical, soil, and rangeland surveys. This Program is a component of our well-established Research Associate Program, which focuses on the conservation and management of natural, cultural, and recreation resources in the Intermountain West while providing emerging professionals opportunities to begin or enhance their careers.


GBI’s Ecological Monitoring Program is dedicated to providing college graduates and emerging professionals with hands-on survey, inventory, monitoring, and reporting experience in natural resource management. Extensive training and technical field skills development provides employees a unique opportunity to obtain valuable experience in executing monitoring protocols that will increase their employment success.

In one component of the Program, participants implement the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) strategy for terrestrial systems, targeted at collecting standardized ecological information and long-term vegetation data at multiple scales across western BLM districts. In some instances participants may perform supplemental protocols such as Habitat Assessment Framework (HAF) (to inform conservation approaches for sage-grouse). Supplemental sampling may also include collecting data on forb diversity and pollinators, among other indicators. Select locations will apply AIM sampling to post-wildfire Emergency Stabilization and Rehabilitation (ESR) monitoring.

This video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LciTBPG2-Ss&feature=youtu.be) highlights the national BLM AIM strategy for landscape-scale data capture across western states.

Southern California Soil Crew Specific Information:
This project is working within the BLM California Desert District (CDD) and in addition to collecting standard AIM data, this project will assist the NRCS with soil mapping and ecological site development at sites within the DRECP/CDD designs. The Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan (DRECP) is focused on 10.8 million acres of public lands in the desert regions of seven California counties – Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego. It is a landscape-level plan that streamlines renewable energy development while conserving unique and valuable desert ecosystems and providing outdoor recreation opportunities.

More information on the DRECP can be found here:
https://www.blm.gov/programs/planning-and-nepa/plans-in-development/california/desert-renewable-energy-conservation-plan​
GBI is recruiting six Ecological Monitoring Soil Technicians to work with GBI and BLM staff. There are two different projects GBI is recruiting soil technicians for; two soil crews working in the California Desert District and two crews working in Southern Nevada.

Southern California Soil Crew:
Each Soil Technician will work on a 2 person field crew under the supervision of an Ecological Monitoring Soil Scientist. Each soil crew will collect a NASIS (National Soil Information System) quality Soil Pit Description. This in an effort to assist the NRCS (Natural Resource Conservation Service) with soil mapping and ecological site development in the hot deserts of California. Sites within the DRECP (Desert Renewable Energy Conservation Plan)/CDD (California Desert District) designs will be completing NRCS Soil Pedon Descriptions. A comprehensive soil pit description will be completed at each site using the NRCS Soil Pedon Description Form 232. This will be done at randomized sample locations across the DRECP/CDD areas where standard AIM data is also being collected by a separate crew. This crew will be a dedicated soils crew. In addition, the soil crew will also collect soil sample voucher collections for three specified plots determined by the BLM.

Nevada:
Each Field Tech will work with one other technician under the supervision of a Field Lead to characterize vegetation using the terrestrial AIM core methods. In some instances, Habitat Assessment Framework (HAF), and/or other supplemental protocols will be performed, for which training will be provided. Aside from core AIM sampling, any supplemental protocols implemented will vary by location.

Data will be used by resource specialists and land managers to inform decisions regarding land management at various temporal and spatial scales.

During field work, car camping for 7 night “hitches” in remote locations will typically be required.

Depending on performance and completion of work term this position can qualify for Public Lands Corps (PLC) status given that the applicant is 30 years old or younger at the time of GBI employment. This certificate allows for non-competitive status for future federal job applications and will last two years from the end of GBI employment.

Field work will include:
• Maintaining safety awareness and practices;
• Extensive 4x4 driving on unmaintained roads;
• Navigating off-trail to sampling sites;
• Establishing sampling plots and transects;
• Identifying and describing soil horizons to help verify ecological site descriptions (ESDs);
• Collecting vegetation data (including species inventory, forb diversity, species abundance, sagebrush shape, foliar cover, canopy gap, and herbaceous and woody heights);
• Taking photo-points.

Southern California Soil Crew specific duties:
• Maintaining safety awareness and practices;
• Extensive 4x4 driving on unmaintained roads;
• Navigating off-trail to sampling sites;
• Identifying and describing soil horizons to help verify ecological site descriptions (ESDs);
• Digging a NASIS (National Soil Information System) Quality Soil Pit- minimum of 100cm and up to 200cm or contact with bedrock. Digging time potentially takes more than three hours.
• Completing NRCS Soil Pedon Descriptions using NRCS Form 232.
• Collecting soil sample vouchers
• Taking photo-points.


Additional duties include:
• Regular communication with GBI support staff and agency staff;
• Participation in GBI and agency trainings;
• Entering data into both Field Maps and Survey 123 software;
• Identifying plants to species using dichotomous keys; and
• Employing extensive QA/QC data checks.

Compensation:
Total approximate compensation: $2990/month before taxes (Including benefits the approximate hourly equivalent: $18.69/hour), plus health insurance (monthly premiums fully paid by GBI) and paid time off.

Breakdown:
• $15.50/hour
• $150 bi-weekly housing stipend*
• $15 per diem for every night camped in the field (up
to 7 units in an 8 day work week)
• Affordable Care Act Compliant Health insurance
including vision and dental provided at no cost to
the employee starting the first day of the month
following employment start date.
• Paid federal holidays
• Paid personal time off (amount dependent on contract
length)

*Housing stipend is untaxed and can be used at the discretion of the applicant. Housing is not provided. Applicants must be able to provide their own lodging
​
Contract Timeline:

Locations and timelines listed below are tentative, some with potential for extension. Crews will be based out of the Las Vegas GBI Office but work in the following BLM Field Office (FO’s) areas.

Please indicate your availability and project preference in your cover letter when applying. Application review will continue until all positions are filled. We encourage applying early to gain the best chance of getting top-choice locations. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.

California
Southern California Project:
• Southern California Desert District/ Bishop Field Office;
• February 21st-July 8th
• 2-person soils monitoring only crews

Nevada
Nevada Statewide Project:
• Ely BLM District, Southern Nevada District
• February 21st -June 17th
• 3-person vegetation and soils monitoring crews

Required Qualifications:

Experience, education, or a combination of the two in natural resources and field data collection to meet one or both of the following:

• B.A./B.S in a natural resource field such as soil science, geosciences, environmental science, ecology, biology, natural resource management, or a closely related field
• At least 9 semester hours in soil science classes.

AND/OR

• A minimum of 1 year field data collection describing soils.
• Any of the 4 certifications from the Soil Science Society of America may substitute for education or experience.
​


Technical requirements:
• Experience conducting soils surveys, digging soil pits, delineating soil horizons, identifying soil texture classes using the hand texturing method, and describing soil structure preferred
• Familiarity with NRCS soils databases and Ecological Site Descriptions concepts
• Experience with data entry and management;
• Ability to read, interpret and navigate using topographic maps;
• Experience safely operating 4WD trucks on paved and unpaved roads, often in remote areas on unimproved roads;
• Experience navigating and collecting coordinates with hand-held GPS units;
• Experience creating maps and performing basic functions with GIS software (ArcMap), preferred;
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access); and
• Experience with Field Maps, Survey 123, and ArcGIS Online.

Additional requirements:
• Willingness and ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic setting, and to consistently enact high performance standards and a strong work and team ethic in support of the goals and objectives of the AIM program and the mission of GBI;
• Valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record;
• Familiarity with native and invasive plants of the sampling area and associated natural resource issues preferred;
• Ability to work productively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals;
• Ability to work independently;
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members, agency staff, and a diverse public;
• Excellent organizational skills;
• Familiarity with best practices for field safety and Leave No Trace principles;
• Experience in and willingness to spend multiple days camping in the field;
• Flexibility with position location within field district offices
• Willingness to work irregular hours (e.g., early mornings, late nights); and
• Ability to work in harsh and rapidly changing environments, work in all types of weather conditions, traverse uneven terrain, carry upwards of 40 pounds in a backpack, and otherwise maintain good physical condition.

Please apply at:
https://www.vscyberhosting.com/greatbasin/careers.aspx?rf=TAM&req=2021-AIM-008

Database Analyst - Oklahoma State University

The Department of Plant Biology, Ecology, and Evolution at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater (http://plantbio.okstate.edu) seeks a full-time Database Analyst to begin January 2022 with an annual renewal contingent on satisfactory performance through August 2023. The Data Analyst will serve as Data Manager for the NSF-funded herbarium digitization project “American Crossroads: Digitizing the Vascular Flora of the South-Central United States” (https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=1902085). This manager will maintain the project’s centralized database, oversee data synchronization with project portals and repositories, provide overall quality control of images and crowdsourced data, ensure that workflows and data management protocols meet project standards for data preservation and data quality, work with contracted technical developers, and conduct training workshops on data management. The manager will work closely with the project’s Technological Innovator and Project Manager (at the lead institution, Botanical Research Institute of Texas) on data-related tasks and will report to Dr. Mark Fishbein at Oklahoma State University. The project is an inter-institutional collaboration (TORCH: Texas Oklahoma Regional Consortium of Herbaria) among Oklahoma State University, Botanical Research Institute of Texas, University of Texas at Austin, University of Oklahoma, and Texas A&M University. The position is currently classified as based in Stillwater, Oklahoma, though it is possible that it could be converted to a remote position to accommodate the constraints of a very strong applicant.

Specific responsibilities include: 1) manage user accounts; 2) assist the Project Manager in creating workflow documentation; 3) monitor and ensure data and image quality; 4) provide workflow training (online and in person) to project participants; 5) provide technical support to project participants; 6) assist with importing existing specimen data and images into the TORCH web portal; 7) integrate data and images with external aggregators (e.g., iDigBio, GBIF, JSTOR); 8) assist the Project Manager in generating reports; 9) travel to participating herbaria for training sessions and to periodic meetings of senior project personnel.

Required competencies: written and oral communication, problem solving, organization, working on teams with different skill levels and learning curves, working with team members from diverse backgrounds and social groups, knowledge of data management procedures including familiarity with SQL.

Desired skills: data cleaning (OpenRefine, etc); scripting (e.g., Python, PHP); Linux; Darwin Core and related data standards; cross-walking data between different standards; image processing software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom); familiar with tools for syncing files (e.g., rsync, Dropbox); georeferencing. 

Minimum Qualifications: B.S. in Computer Science, Museum Science, or related field. 

Desired qualifications: M.S. in Computer Science, Museum Science, or related field; one year of experience in data management for natural history collections.

All applications should be submitted online at jobs.okstate.edu referencing reqID req10546. Include 1) cover letter, 2) résumé or curriculum vitae, 3) names and contact information for three references, 4) transcripts. Candidates from groups underrepresented in science and academia are especially encouraged to apply. Review of applications will begin December 17, 2021 and continue until position is filled. Contact information: Mark Fishbein, mark.fishbein@okstate.edu, 405-744-2544. Position is contingent upon available funding.

Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, visit https:///eeo.okstate.edu.

Biological Field Technician and Lead Biological Field Technician

NatureServe is a 501(C)3 organization that supports biodiversity conservation at the local, national and international levels through our network of member programs and other institutional alliances. NatureServe is recruiting seasonal biological field technicians to collect data in support of vegetation community sampling in dry sagebrush and woodland habitats in northeastern California and northwestern Nevada. The project involves field data collection of terrestrial Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) information on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands in the Redding, Applegate and Eagle Lake districts in northern California and adjacent Nevada, with supplemental data collection in support of ongoing fire rehabilitation monitoring.

NatureServe is seeking to fill up to four full-time, seasonal field biological technicians and up to four lead field biological technicians to conduct field sampling. The field season is expected to occur from late March to early August. The work will include following established vegetation and soil sampling methods on new or existing ecological monitoring sites, including plot and line-based sampling, identification of plants to the species level, digging soil pits, and analyzing soils. Knowledge of native plants, the flora of northeastern California and northwestern Nevada, ecological field monitoring methods, field sampling and project management needed. Availability for participation in a BLM Terrestrial AIM training near Susanville, CA the first week of April is strongly preferred.

Lead Technician position includes responsibility for supporting crew safety in the field, coordinating sampling logistics and scheduling, and organization and quality control of paper and electronic field data.

Must be able to work 10-hour days for 8 days at a time (followed by 6 days off), while working and camping in remote locations.