Hydrology Assistant (26 Weeks) - AmeriCorps

Hydrology Assistant - AmeriCorps Conservation Legacy Program

This position will contribute directly to natural resource management issues in the park related to biological and physical sciences, specifically hydrology and water resources. The member will also assist staff with public communication and educational outreach programming. They will be offered the opportunity to participate in other park activities, including geological research and dark skies programming. Since the park takes an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to natural resource management, the member may also assist with archaeological surveys related to ground water testing and monitoring by the USGS. They might also be asked to assist with cataloging museum collection specimens and providing visitor interpretation related to natural resources topics. All the activities will have a strong tie to the park's natural resources and related management issues.

Hydrologic Technician: The member's primary responsibilities will be to calibrate, maintain, and use multiparameter meters for the measurement of temperature, pH, specific conductance, dissolved oxygen, and acid neutralizing capacity at 32 hot springs. Secondary responsibilities will include sampling and flushing for Legionella bacteria, monitoring surface waters in the park, the development of printed and digital interpretive material, and the creation and presentation of formal interpretive programming about the park's hydrogeology and other natural resources. Other duties may include assistance with other natural or cultural resource management projects such as wildlife and plant surveys, GIS training, cross-training with other park divisions, and archival research.

Deliverables include a comprehensive scientific report of data collected, a well-organized database of water quality data, and interpretive programming for the public.

Applicants must be United States citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent resident aliens. They must have received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate or agree to obtain one prior to using the education award. They must also agree to complete a National Service Criminal History Check and a government security background check. The applicant must be available to participate for the entire 26 weeks in order to be considered.

Preferred qualifications include at least 60 hours of undergraduate coursework in the physical sciences or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Courses in geology, chemistry, and hydrology are desired. Well qualified applicants will have a bachelor's degree or at least 120 hours towards a bachelor's degree in the physical or life sciences or a closely related field. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Master's and PhD. students are welcome to apply. Experience with YSI multi-parameter probes, IDEXX bacteria processing equipment, and data entry/database maintenance is preferred. Applicants should also have strong communication skills, both verbally and in writing. Interpretive experience, especially with digital media and publications, is desired. Basic computer skills are required.

The position is subject to a federal background investigation clearance.

Natural environment: Hot Springs National Park is within the Zig Zag range of the Ouachita Mountains, and the terrain of the park is narrow valleys and steeply inclined slopes topped with novaculite outcrops. Winters in central Arkansas are characterized by mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and minimal snowfall. Biting insects and other wildlife, poison ivy, and sunburn are likely field activities risks, even in the winter. Participant will be expected to complete many physically challenging tasks in the conditions described. A set of steel toe boots and hiking boots are required for this position. The participant office space is within the Lamar Bathhouse, near the south end of Bathhouse Row, a National Historic Landmark District. The member will be provided with individual space, which will include a desk, desk chair, computer, and lockable storage.

Park housing is not available. The participant will be responsible for finding housing in the nearby area. There may be opportunities for sharing rental housing with seasonal staff in the Interpretation division, depending on when they start/end. The rental market in Hot Springs shows a range of prices, with average rents falling between $678 and $1,173 depending on location and amenities. A one-bedroom apartment typically rents for $807 on average.

Applicant must have a valid driver's license to drive a government vehicle. A personal vehicle is not required for this position.

Stewards Individual Placements and Conservation Legacy are committed to the full consideration of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential job functions. This position is expected to serve full time each week, but exact service schedules may vary based on project needs. Lunch breaks and days off will not be counted towards AmeriCorps service hours. Member will receive pertinent project and site training from the host site throughout the term. Member will receive an orientation that includes training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities. Access to free professional development webinars led by Conservation Legacy staff.

Performance will be evaluated on whether the member has completed the required number of minimum AmeriCorps hours, the member has satisfactorily completed assignments, and if the member has met other performance criteria that were clearly communicated at the beginning of the term of service. Reporting requirements include, but are not limited to, bi-weekly timesheets, monthly accomplishment tracking, a mid-term report, and a final report.