AmeriCorps Survey Technicians (Desert Tortoise Monitoring Program)

GREAT BASIN INSTITUTE

84d • Onsite

About The Position

The Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is federally listed as a threatened species north and west of the Colorado River under the Endangered Species Act. Desert tortoise technicians will assist researchers in estimating population density using line distance sampling and mark-recapture methods. Monitoring occurs during April and May to coincide with the peak activity season of desert tortoises. AmeriCorps field technicians will be required to demonstrate proficiency in backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, use of GPS and topographic maps, and electronic data collection technology. In addition, survey monitors will be field tested on their knowledge of and ability to follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely. Field technicians will work for 5 consecutive days with 2 days off during training and 4 days with 3 days off during the field season. Technicians must be available to work any of the 7 days each week, with the understanding that the schedule is subject to change with little or no notice. Field camping is required. This position will require long hours including early mornings and may include weekends. Hiring Deadline January 15, 2026 applicants are reviewed on a rolling basis and the application may close before the deadline if all positions are filled. Compensation: $6,720.00 Living Allowance $1,565.08 Education Award Field Per Diem ($25.00 per day while camping) Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance; $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost; Student loan forbearance/interest accrual Access to Pro Deals; and Housing will not be provided and the selected participant will be expected to procure housing on their own Contract & Timeline: March 17, 2026 – May 8, 2026 Full-time, minimum 40 hours per week Weekend hours may be required during field season Location: Clark County, NV (Las Vegas)

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field, required
• Experience collecting field data or following established field data collection protocols required
• Ability to walk a minimum of 15 km/day in challenging terrain and harsh and rapidly changing desert conditions, and otherwise be in good physical condition required
• Self-motivated with ability to maintain a positive attitude while working in a diverse team environment required
• Ability to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice required
• Willingness to camp in the desert backcountry for consecutive days required
• Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime or the equivalent of two full-time education awards), and (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) and federal criminal background checks, (4) Adhere to the rules, regulations and code of conduct as specified in the Member Service Agreement; and (5) Will not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement

Nice To Haves

• Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for navigation and/or data collection preferred
• Experience conducting line distance sampling or working with desert tortoises desirable
• Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license preferred
• Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road preferred

Responsibilities

• Assist researchers in estimating population density using line distance sampling and mark-recapture methods.
• Demonstrate proficiency in backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, use of GPS and topographic maps, and electronic data collection technology.
• Follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely.

Benefits

• $6,720.00 Living Allowance
• $1,565.08 Education Award
• Field Per Diem ($25.00 per day while camping)
• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost
• Student loan forbearance/interest accrual
• Access to Pro Deals

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level