Seasonal Field Botanist (southeastern Pennsylvania)

A seasonal field botanist is needed to assist in vegetation monitoring at Fort Indiantown Gap National Guard Training Center, in Annville, Pennsylvania, which is located in southeastern Pennsylvania, about 100 miles (two hours drive) northwest of Philadelphia.  The seasonal field botanist will work on an existing collaboration between the Sewall Lab in the Biology Department at Temple University (http://sites.temple.edu/bjsewall/) and Fort Indiantown Gap, part of the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (http://ftig.png.pa.gov/about).  Fort Indiantown Gap is the most important training site for the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.  It is also one of the region’s most ecologically important areas, containing numerous species of rare and threatened plants and wildlife as well as rare and threatened grassland habitats. 

The position will assist with monitoring field sites for the Sustainable Range Program. Project tasks include identifying plant species, measuring woody vegetation in grasslands, mapping invasive species, documenting disturbance, collecting vegetation and environmental data, and taking digital photographs as part of a long-term ecological monitoring program.  Other tasks include relocating permanent plots, establishing new plots, and collecting vegetation data using Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers.  Additional tasks could include evaluation of the trail network onsite, stream monitoring, and assistance with a variety of wildlife research efforts.  Modifications to the work expectations may be made, as needed to respond to circumstances and government and installation guidance related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Incumbents will be employed by Temple University but the work will be based at Fort Indiantown Gap. 

Eligibility requires either graduation from or current enrollment in a program leading to a Bachelor’s of Science degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, botany, or related field, as well as basic computer skills, the ability to operate a vehicle, and a valid driver’s license.  A knowledge of plant taxonomy and an ability to operate a four-wheel-drive vehicle are strongly preferred. Previous vegetation sampling experience and taxonomic identification skills for Pennsylvania plant species are preferred. Candidates should be in good physical condition, willing to work long hours outdoors in all types of weather and habitat conditions, and able to work cooperatively with military, civilian, and academic partners in a team environment. Salary is $15.00/hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications, for 40 hrs/week. Employment will be seasonal, from June through August 2020. The work site is not adjacent to a downtown area or public transportation, so use of a personal vehicle to commute to the site is desirable.

To apply, submit a cover letter describing interest in the position and relevant experience, a resume, and contact information for 3 references to both James Meenan (c-jmeenan@pa.gov) and Dr. Brent Sewall (bjsewall@temple.edu).  Include “˜Seasonal Field Botanist position” in the subject line.  Position will remain open until filled.