Technician, Oregon State University

Description: We seek four full-time temporary technicians in fire, wildlife, and sagebrush ecology with the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Oregon State University. The research project site is at 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 group living conditions at base camp.

Hourly Wage: $13/hour for technicians; $15/hour for crew leader

Dates of Employment: Preferred start date will be May 14, 2018 but start date is negotiable. Field season can be expected to last up to 10 weeks*.

*There might be a possibility to work on multiple projects and thus extend the term of employment beyond 10 weeks, but that can be discussed if hired.

Minimum Qualifications: Education: Bachelor’s degree in progress in Fisheries and Wildlife, Biology, Ecology, Botany, or another related biological discipline. Abilities/Knowledge/Skills: Basic knowledge of the principles of ecological principles and systematic data collection as well as basic computer skills, including experience with Microsoft Excel. Willingness and ability to spend long days in the field in hot, cold, wet, or dry conditions, hike up to several miles with a 30-pound pack, camp in a field setting occasionally, and to 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. Commitment to completing required animal handling training modules prior to field season and willingness to handle small mammals.

For crew leader candidates: Minimum 2-years of field experience with evidence of being able to lead crew and work as a team-member. Prior training and/or experience in ethical live trapping procedures as applied to small mammals and/or identifying sagebrush-steppe forbs and grasses.

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 February 21, 2017.