Stream-Riparian Food Web Ecology Technician | Idaho State University

Title: Stream-Riparian Food Web Ecology Technician
Type: Temporary/Seasonal Position
Organization: Idaho State University

Location: Stationed in Pocatello, ID; Fieldwork in Yellowstone National Park
Field Season: Mid-late May through late August, though starting and ending dates are negotiable
Salary: Approximately $1950 per month depending on experience.

Job Description: The Stream Ecology Center at Idaho State University (led by Dr. Colden Baxter) is hiring one experienced field technician for a project investigating stream-riparian food web ecology in Yellowstone National Park.  This project is funded by the National Science Foundation and aims to contribute to the broader field of research examining how the reintroduction of gray wolves may be influencing stream and riparian ecosystems through cascading direct and indirect effects. This project is part of a collaboration with Oregon State University (Drs. Dana Warren and Bill Ripple), who will provide a student or researcher to work in conjunction with the Stream Ecology Center’s field efforts.

This position will be based out of Pocatello, ID, with all field work located in and around streams within Yellowstone National Park. Primary field duties will include:
•       Collection, identification, and measurement of aquatic macroinvertebrate larvae.
•       Collection and measurement of stream fishes using electrofishing techniques.
•       Collection of emerging aquatic insects using a variety of passive traps.
•       Quantification of riparian spiders through nighttime bank surveys.
•       Monitoring of bat foraging activity using passive recording devices.
•       Measurement of a variety of stream and riparian habitat characteristics.
•       Organization and maintenance of field equipment and samples.

*The successful candidate will also be expected to assist with the OSU researcher’s field efforts, who will be investigating a variety of stream ecosystem processes (e.g., metabolism).

In addition to field duties, the successful candidate should be prepared for long-term camping and field work in Yellowstone National Park. The successful candidate should be prepared for long days and nights exposed to extreme conditions including large daily temperature fluctuations (20 to 80 degrees F), adverse weather (rain, snow, and thunderstorms), exposure to mosquitos and biting flies, forest fires, and dangerous wildlife (bison, bears, wolves, mountain lions, and more!).

The successful candidate will be expected to provide their own camping gear and appropriate field clothing.  Cooking gear, meals, and field equipment (e.g., waders) will be provided while working in the field.  During time-off in Pocatello, the individual will be expected to find their own housing. The work schedule will include trips to Yellowstone for 4-10 days at a time with 2-3 day breaks in Pocatello.  Field work will require long, variable hours that include early mornings and late nights.

Qualifications:  Candidates should have a background in ecology, stream ecology, or a related field. Individuals need to be able to work independently, be adept at taking detailed field notes, and be available for the entire field season (mid-late May through late August, though starting and ending dates are negotiable).  Individuals from under-represented groups are encouraged to apply.

Preference will be given to individuals who have:
•       Experience identifying aquatic macroinvertebrate larvae to the family level. If not, then a strong background in invertebrate identification that demonstrates the ability to learn quickly.
•       Electrofishing experience, especially in smaller (1st to 3rd order) streams.
•       Ability to hike moderate to long distances for extended periods of time.
•       Ability to work long, irregular hours (late nights/early mornings).
•       Ability to maintain a strong work ethic and positive attitude during physically demanding field work and while living in remote field settings.
•       Ability to camp for extended durations (4 to 10 days).
•       Valid driver’s license and driving record that allows for use of state vehicles.

To apply, please email a cover letter, resume, and contact info for three references to Jeremy Brooks (broojer2@isu.edu) with the subject line “Food Web Ecology Technician Application”.

Start date: Mid-late May, 2019
Application deadline: Apply by January 21st for priority consideration.  Application will remain open until the position is filled.
Contact person: Jeremy Brooks
Application E-mail: broojer2@isu.edu