Description: We seek two full-time temporary technicians in fire, wildlife, and sagebrush ecology with the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon. The research project will occur at and around the Phillip W. Schneider Wildlife Area (PWSWA), near Dayville, OR. Daily work will primarily be vegetation surveys to quantify the changes following fire and post-fire restoration treatments in sagebrush communities, small mammal trapping, maintenance and observations for seed dispersal experiments, and data entry. Position is based out of OSU, but no housing is provided in Corvallis. However, transportation to field sites and primitive accommodations on site will be provided. Daily field conditions can be challenging, including varying weather and fire conditions, encounters with venomous reptiles, and remote and semi-primitive living conditions at base camp.
Hourly Wage: $12/hour
Dates of Employment: Preferred start date will be between May 1, 2017 and May 15, 2017. Preference will be given to applicants who can begin on or near May 1. Field season can be expected to last up to 10 weeks.
Minimum Qualifications: Education: Bachelor92s degree in progress in Fisheries and Wildlife, Biology, Ecology, Botany, or another related biological discipline. Ability/Knowledge/Skills: Basic knowledge of the principles of ecology and ecological data collection. Basic computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Excel. Willingness and ability to spend long days in the filed in hot, cold, wet, or dry conditions, hike up to several miles with a 30-pound pack, camp in a field setting on occasion, and be away from duty station (Corvallis, OR) for several weeks at a time. Ability to live and work effectively as a member of a team sharing a project base camp. Current driver’s license and ability to drive an ATV and 4-wheel drive vehicles. Driving record subject to OSU review for approval to drive university and agency vehicles. Willingness and commitment to completing required animal handling training modules prior to field season.
Desirable Qualifications: Experience collecting biological data in a field setting. Prior training and/or experience in ethical live trapping procedures as applied to small mammals. Organizational, communication, and leadership skills with an ability to independently manage multiple task simultaneously. Resourceful in developing practical solutions to daily challenges. Knowledge of sagebrush ecosystems. Experience with issues surrounding rangeland or fire. Experience using GIS tools.
Inquiries: Dr. Jake Dittel: Jacob.dittel@oregonstate.edu
Application: In a single .pdf file, send resume or CV with; (1) a cover letter detailing how you meet the minimum, and where applicable, desirable qualifications, (2) contact information for 3 references, and (3) academic transcripts (unofficial transcripts are fine) to Dr. Dittel. Applications are due March 1, 2017.
