Senior Scientific Specialist, Field Ecology
Illinois Natural History Survey
Prairie Research Institute
The Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS) investigates and documents the biological resources of Illinois and other areas and acquires and provides natural history information that can be used to promote the common understanding, conservation, and management of these resources. INHS is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, which is centrally located between Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis. To learn more visit https://go.illinois.edu/PRIjobs
The Illinois Natural History Survey is seeking a Field Ecologist to conduct basic and applied research assisting with ongoing surveys for amphibians, reptiles, freshwater mollusks, fishes, birds, pollinators, and noctuid moths that are threatened, endangered, and Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN). This position will also involve assisting with planning, data collection, QA/QC, and analysis to support and undertake research studies associated with the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority. This position will be based in Champaign, Illinois, and will require the individual to be on-site.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Assist taxonomic experts with surveys for amphibians, reptiles, freshwater mollusks, fishes, birds, pollinators, and noctuid moths.
- Periodically conduct large-scale freshwater turtle trapping in the Des Plaines River Valley.
- Coordinate and collaborate with other lab experts on related projects.
- Conduct seasonal overnight fieldwork.
- Plan overnight fieldwork to be cost and logistically-effective.
- Secure appropriate approvals and permits to conduct fieldwork.
- Create and maintain working relationships with State, Federal, and University partners.
- Have an understanding and ability to conduct aquatic eDNA studies.
- Ability to pin, spread, and properly voucher insect specimens (predominantly noctuid moths).
- Conduct data analysis using appropriate statistical methods and model building in R.
- Conduct spatial data analyses using GIS, remote sensing, and spatial methods.
- Translate scientific data into memos, reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations to be delivered at conferences and professional meetings.
- Supervise, mentor, and lead hourly staff to achieve success and foster a culture of innovation and high-level performance at the individual and organizational levels, including task assignment, scheduling, ongoing performance management with coaching and feedback, and travel approval.
- Prioritize, organize, and plan to ensure projects progress on time.
- Perform necessary administrative tasks associated with this position.
- Ensure facilities and equipment are properly maintained, grant and contract obligations are fulfilled, and data quality assurance standards are met.
- Purchase and maintain field equipment and supplies needed for projects.
- Seek external funding for research projects and contribute to externally funded projects with colleagues at the Survey, PRI, and outside agencies.
- Perform other duties to further the mission and goals of the Survey, PRI, and the University of Illinois.
- Keep abreast of communications and developments in this discipline.
- Represent the Survey, PRI, and University of Illinois on committees.
Additional Physical Demands
Working irregular hours in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting/stinging insects, etc.) and required overnight travel (including driving to and from research sites and consecutive overnight stays) throughout Illinois. Overnight and extended stay travel will be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position, particularly during the active seasons of amphibians, reptiles, freshwater mollusks, birds, pollinators, and fish. Lifting, carrying, and hiking equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. will be necessary.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s in Biology, Ecology, Conservation, Natural Resources, or related field. Alternate degree fields will be considered depending on the nature and depth of the experience related to this position. A minimum of two years of planning and conducting fieldwork with experience steaming from three or more of the following taxonomic groups (amphibians, reptiles, freshwater mollusks, fishes, pollinators, or noctuid moths). Valid Drivers License.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s in Biology, Ecology, Conservation, Natural Resources, or related field. Leadership experience, including training and oversight of employees. A minimum of three years of experience in fieldwork, predominately with amphibians, reptiles, freshwater mollusks, fishes, pollinators, or noctuid moths. Relevant coursework in some or all of the focal areas of ecology, conservation, specific taxonomic groups (i.e., major ‘ologies), statistics, modeling, programming/data analysis in R, and GIS. Museum Specimen preparation and museum curatorial procedures in one or more of the focal taxonomic areas. R Analytical and ArcGIS Certifications, First Aid Certification, ability to operate outboard motors, ability to drive trailers, ability to operate boats.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Working taxonomic knowledge of midwestern amphibians, reptiles, freshwater mollusks, fishes, pollinators, and noctuid moths, or a combination of at least two groups. Strong working knowledge of sampling methods and designs for the above taxa. Basic working knowledge of analytical platforms, including R and ArcGIS. Proficiency with Microsoft Office (e.g., MS Word and Excel). Proven record of written and oral dissemination of scientific results, project management, and effective time management skills. Must be capable of operating large 4WD pickup trucks. Effective communication, personal relations, collaboration, organization, teamwork, and leadership skills. Demonstrated ability to perform effectively in a diverse and fast-paced work environment consisting of multiple and changing priorities with stringent deadlines under minimal supervision. Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict resolution skills. Proficiency in commonly employed software and databases.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis, renewable annually based upon satisfactory progress in the position and continuation of funding. The start date is negotiable, and the starting salary is $50,000, commensurate with education, experience, and skill.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by December 11, 2023. Apply for this position at https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/8838?c=illinois using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of the posting. Applications not submitted through this website will not be considered. Application materials must include a 1) cover letter that clearly outlines your qualifications and experience as it relates to this position, 2) a CV or resume, and 3) names and contact information (including email addresses) for three professional references. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Dr. Michael Dreslik at dreslik@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, COVID-19 vaccination requirements, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu.