Research Assistant | Thunder Basin Prairie Ecosystem Association

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION
Research assistant for the Thunder Basin Prairie Ecosystem Association
(TBGPEA). TBGPEA is a non-profit organization established to provide
private
landowner leadership in developing a responsible, science-based approach to
long-term management of the lands of its members.  Over the last ten years
the Association has focused its efforts on developing ecosystem-based
conservation measures. These measures are designed to address the habitat
needs of species of concern in northeastern Wyoming in balance with the
need
for sustainable economic and social activities and preservation of cultural
values.

TBGPEA is collaborating with the USDA-ARS Rangeland Resources Research Unit
(RRRU) to develop new knowledge about ecological processes in Thunder Basin
and apply this knowledge to improved management for production and
conservation objectives. The Research Assistant will be supervised by the
Board of TBGPEA with input from RRRU scientists. The Assistant will be
responsible for collecting scientific data from field experiments to
evaluate how climate, fire, soils, grazing management, and global change
affect ecological phases, states, transitions and thresholds in semi-arid
rangeland ecosystems. If time permits, the Assistant may help evaluate
Association member¹s property as part of the Candidate Conservation
Agreement with Assurances implementation.

Location of work: Thunder Basin National Grassland, Bill, WY

Hours of work: 40 hours per week (4 x 10 hour days per week)

Salary: $2,400 per month, housing is provided

Dates: May 23 – August 19, 2016

Send application materials (cover letter, resume, references) and/or
questions to:
Dave Pellatz
Executive Director
Thunder Basin Grasslands Prairie Ecosystem Association
671 Steinle Rd
Douglas, WY  82633
307-359-1328
dave@rswyoming.com

and copy to:
Lauren Porensky
Research Ecologist
Rangeland Resources Research Unit
USDA-ARS
1701 Centre Ave.
Fort Collins, CO 80526 USA
970.492.7139
lauren.porensky@ars.usda.gov

MAJOR DUTIES
Collects soil, vegetation, and ornithological data and is responsible for
quality assurance/quality control of data collected.  Keeps exact, detailed
records of experimental data.  Provides data in an appropriate format for
incorporation into computer spreadsheets. Makes and records observations of
unusual happenings, phenomena or trends that might influence interpretation
of plot or field data.

Manages fieldwork program semi-autonomously; takes responsibility for
solving problems and adapting to current conditions and events without
constant supervision.

Operates, maintains, cleans, repairs and constructs equipment used in plot
and field experiments including, but not limited to, vehicles and field
equipment.

If time permits, the Assistant may participate in the development of
livestock grazing management plans and may also collect small mammal data
as
part of the Association¹s focus on black-tailed prairie dog and potential
black-footed ferret habitat.

Ensures that all safety and environmental concerns are addressed to provide
a safe work environment, and that activities in support of research in the
Thunder Basin do not pose an environmental threat.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS
Technical knowledge of plant taxonomy, structure and function of plant
communities, and theory and practice of rangeland management, and a
familiarity with the methods of biological sciences such as biology,
chemistry, botany, etc, in order to participate responsibly in most phases
of the experimental process.

Experience with bird and/or small mammal wildlife survey techniques is
beneficial.

Ability to do efficient and high-quality work without direct supervision.
Ability to proactively solve problems and manage tasks adaptively in order
to get the job done on time.

Skill in the use of personal computers to utilized software packages such
as: word processing, data entry and manipulation in spreadsheets (e.g.,
Excel).

Communication skills necessary to follow directions precisely and produce
positive interactions with scientists, research personnel, and the general
public.

Knowledge of range science, soil science, general biology and ecology.

Practical knowledge of general vehicle maintenance and repair. Knowledge of
safe operating procedures when using equipment or vehicles. Knowledge of
UTV
operation and safety is beneficial.

Practical knowledge of livestock management and nutrition for use in
development of livestock grazing management plans.

COMMUNICATION CONTACTS
Personal contacts are broad including TBGPEA members; scientists,
technicians and graduate students from other institutions or other federal
agencies; action agencies; non-governmental organizations; vendors and
contractors; state or local government entities; visitors and the general
public.

Personal contacts within the RRRU involve support and assistance to
scientists and support staff. The purpose of personal contacts is to
mutually accomplish technical and support work; assist in planning and
coordinating work efforts; discuss technical requirements of equipment with
manufacturers and resolve problems concerning the work or the peculiar
needs
of the organization; coordinate help with other research projects; exchange
information about research techniques; obtain supplies and equipment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requires standing, walking, bending and lifting of objects
weighing
as much as 50 pounds.  Certain phases of the work require extended (such as
most of a work day) periods of standing or sitting while accomplishing
detailed experimental procedures.  Some procedures require stamina and
endurance.  Need to have the physical capability to perform required duties
without hazard to self or others when working with machinery, cattle,
horses, fire or chemicals.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The job is located in a remote part of NE Wyoming. The work environment is
about 85% in the field and 15% in the shop or office.  The work involves
regular and recurring moderate risks or discomforts which require special
safety precautions, e.g., working outdoors. Throughout the year, the person
may encounter belligerent livestock, insects, dust and extremes of weather.
The person is required to wear protective clothing (e.g., coats, boots,
goggles, gloves, and respirator) as conditions warrant.