Temporary Plant Ecology Field Technician - CA/OR

Essential Job Duties The Sheth evolutionary ecology lab in the Department of Plant and Microbial Biology at North Carolina State University (Raleigh, North Carolina; USA) and the Angert Lab in the Departments of Botany and Zoology at the University of British Columbia (Vancouver, British Columbia; Canada) are looking for two enthusiastic people to work as a team collecting demographic data during our annual range-wide survey of the riparian plant, scarlet monkeyflower. The project aims to understand how plant population dynamics vary along latitudinal and elevational gradients; how populations recover from extreme climatic events; and how rapid evolution increases population persistence under climate change. The data collection team will work with Drs. Sheth and Angert for one week, beginning mid/late August (exact date TBD), to become proficient in site relocation and data collection methods across a representative sample of sites. Upon completion of training, the team will continue to complete data collection independently across all remaining sites (21 in total, from southern California to central Oregon). Duties include: relocating sites and plots from written descriptions, photos, and GPS records; censusing survival of previously recorded plants; measuring size and reproduction of marked individual plants; mapping and tagging new recruits; maintaining plot markers and updating plot notes; and collecting fruits off-plot. The position is expected to run for approximately six weeks, beginning in mid/late August and concluding in late September or early October. Exact start and end dates may vary depending on project needs and field conditions. Additional Information All application materials will be reviewed by Dr. Seema Sheth and Dr. Amy Angert. Exact start and end dates are flexible and may be adjusted based on candidate availability and project needs. Project-related campground fees and occasional motel lodging will be fully covered. Field technicians will be provided with a rental vehicle for project travel and will be reimbursed for approved fuel expenses incurred during fieldwork. We are committed to maintaining a safe, professional, and respectful work environment for all crew members. A comprehensive field safety plan has been developed for this project, and all technicians will be required to review, understand, and adhere to established safety protocols and procedures throughout the duration of their employment. Field technicians will be provided with a Garmin inReach device, a GPS-enabled satellite communication and emergency response system designed for use in remote locations. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age by the start date of employment due to rental vehicle requirements associated with this position. Work Schedule Working hours can range from 7 AM to 7 PM, 5-6 days per week (not always Monday – Friday), with a typical field day lasting 8-10 hours depending on site access and plot conditions. Days off are scheduled according to the team’s needs and preferences, in consultation with the PIs. Minimum Experience/Education An upper undergraduate student or recent graduate who has taken at least one ecology course Department Required Skills Previous field experience Experience in extended remote camping and driving on 4WD roads Positive attitude, great work ethic, and strong communication skills for collaborative teamwork and problem solving Strong work ethic and willingness to sustain a fast-paced work schedule Excited to participate in field ecological research Ability to complete repetitive tasks and work outside for long periods of time in potentially adverse conditions (e.g., in high or low temperatures, with poison oak and blackberry bramble, and traveling off-trail with slippery or uneven footing) Ability to work away from home and be on the road from ~ late August until data collection is complete (late September or early October) Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education Familiarity with plant identification Wilderness safety training Required License or Certification Valid driver’s license Benefits Health Insurance for Temporary Employees Enhance your career with LEAD courses Attend non-revenue generating sporting events for free EEO NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact View phone number on click.appcast.io to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr NC State University