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. The focus of the desert tortoise line distance sampling (LDS) monitoring program is to collect data that will allow researchers to estimate population density of these animals in the eastern portion of their range. LDS monitoring occurs during April and May to coincide with the peak in the desert tortoise activity season. Field training will require participation in a rigorous 4-week program during which both telemetry and field technicians will be required to demonstrate proficiency in backcountry wilderness field skills, 4WD vehicle operation, the use of GPS, topographic maps, and PDA technology. In addition, all technicians will be further field tested on their ability to follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely. Four telemetry technicians will be hired not only to conduct line distance sampling, but they will also have the sole responsibility of gathering daily location data on focal desert tortoises that serve as controls for the project. All technicians will work for 5 consecutive days and then have 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:
o $4650 living allowance
o $1250AmeriCorps Education Award
o Field per diem
Contract & Timeline:
o March 15, 2010 – May 28, 2010
o Full-time, minimum 40 hours per week
o Weekend hours may be required during field season
Location:
o Las Vegas, NV
Qualifications:
o Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field;
o Experience collecting field data or following established field data collection protocols;
o Experience using telemetry equipment;
o Experience conducting LDS or working with desert tortoises desirable;
o Experience using hand-held GPS equipment;
o Knowledge of southwestern/Mojave flora and fauna desirable;
o Self-motivated with ability to maintain a positive attitude while working in a diverse team environment;
o Ability to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice;
o Ability to walk a minimum of 12km/day in challenging terrain and harsh and rapidly changing desert conditions, and otherwise be in good physical condition;
o Willingness to camp in the desert backcountry for consecutive days;
o Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license;
o Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road if required; and
o Meet eligibility requirements to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, and (2) not yet received two AmeriCorps Education Awards, regardless of previous award amount.
o All offers of employment are conditional upon completion of an acceptable check of the National Sex Offender Public Registry.
How to Apply:
Qualified and interested applicants should forward a cover letter, résumé, and list of three professional references to Bridget Walden, at bwalden@thegreatbasininstitute.org.
