Description: The desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is federally listed as a threatened species north and west of the Colorado River under the Endangered Species Act.  Desert tortoise monitoring will assist researchers in estimating population density and in monitoring translocation sites.  Monitoring occurs during April & May to coincide with the peak in the desert tortoise activity season.  Telemetry monitors will be required to demonstrate proficiency in backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, and use of GPS, topographic maps, and PDA technology.  In addition, telemetry monitors will be field tested on their knowledge of and ability to follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely. All telemetry monitors must have participated in at least one season of desert tortoise telemetry monitoring.  Two telemetry monitors will have the sole responsibility of gathering daily location data on focal desert tortoises that serve as controls for the project. They will also be required to attach and remove transmitters from desert tortoises.  All telemetry monitors will work for 5 consecutive days with 2 days off, but they must be available to work any of the 7 days each week, with the understanding that the schedule is subject change with little or no notice. Spike camping in the field will be required.  This position will require long hours including early mornings and may include weekends

Compensation: $17.00/hour with field per diem

Contract & Timeline:

-April 2014 – May 2014

-Full-time, minimum 40 hours per week

-Weekend hours may be required during field season

Location: Based in Las Vegas, NV

Qualifications:

-At least one season of Desert Tortoise Line Distance Sampling (LDS), required, including telemetry experience;

-Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field;

-Experience collecting field data or following established field data collection protocols;

-Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for navigation and/or data collection;

-Knowledge of southwestern/Mojave flora and fauna desirable;

-Self-motivated with ability to maintain a positive attitude while working in a diverse team environment;

-Ability to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice;

-Ability to walk a minimum of 10km/day in challenging terrain and harsh and rapidly changing desert conditions, and otherwise be in good physical condition;

-Willingness to camp in the desert backcountry for consecutive days;

-Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license;

-Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road if required;

-Able to pass National Sex Offender Public Registry (NSOPR) and FBI criminal background checks.

How to Apply: Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, résumé, and list of three professional references to Amy Gladding, GBI HR Coordinator, at agladding@thegreatbasininstitute.org. Please include where you found the position posted. Incomplete applications will not be considered. No phone inquiries, please.