Biological and Invasive Species Technician (USFW, Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge)

THE GREAT BASIN INSTITUTE • Pahranagat, NV

8d • $16 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Associate Program at GBI, in cooperation with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at Pahranagat National Wildlife Refuge, is recruiting one (1) Biological and Invasive Species Technician to participate in implementing the refuge’s integrated pest management plan and assisting with other refuge management goals. The selected will work independently and with others to accomplish refuge work plans to manage native habitats and wildlife to achieve the purpose of the refuge which is to provide critical wetland habitat for migratory birds, with special emphasis on waterfowl. Work tasks may also include working to achieve the refuge goals of Moapa Valley NWR, including enhancing habitat for the endangered Moapa dace.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology or management, or related field.
• Experience in collecting data accurately and completely and entering data correctly into a computer system.
• Possess a strong organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently with the public, coworkers, and Technical Advisors both orally and in writing, and respond in a professional manner to inquiries from the public regarding work activities.
• Ability to safely conduct strenuous fieldwork requiring regular physical exertion including hiking on uneven terrain.
• Ability to work outdoors for long periods of time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions such as hot, cold and/or humid conditions.
• Ability to modify work schedule to accommodate tasks that must take place before dawn or after dusk.
• Must provide a valid driver’s license and possess a clean driving record.
• Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle on unimproved roads.
• Ability to self-direct and self-motivate.
• Ability to work productively, consistently and cooperatively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals.
• Successful applicants must complete a Department of Interior (DOI) Background Investigation (BI) or submit paperwork to [AGENCY] human resources indicating an active and fully adjudicated BI has already been completed prior to beginning position.

Nice To Haves

• Experience banding birds or strong interest in bird banding/ornithology.
• At least one year of experience in a field-based position.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items, such as equipment packs weighing up to 50 pounds, on a regular basis.
• Familiarity with backcountry, low-impact principles.
• Plant identification skills and previous experience in invasive plant management and/or restoration ecology.
• Familiarity and experience with Great Basin or Mojave Desert plants.
• Ability to use GPS units or FieldMaps to record and locate points and to record field data.
• Familiarity with and interest in the ecology of desert wetland and riparian habitat and associated resource management issues.
• Familiarity with use of ArcGIS to create, import, and export maps and data.

Responsibilities

• Identify, map, and treat target invasive species, especially Lepidium latifolium (whitetop).
• Assist with implementation of the refuge’s Integrated Pest Management System (IPM) to treat invasive species occurring on the refuge, with special focus in wetland habitats using chemical and mechanical methods.
• Track project work progress and assist with documentation of invasive species treatments with use of GIS applications.
• Act as a crew leader to lead invasive species monitoring and treatments with volunteers and public groups conducting service projects on the refuge.
• Assist with restoration efforts after invasive species eradication.
• Aid in the installation/construction of signs and barriers where necessary, to prevent the degradation of sensitive habitat.
• Complete necessary reporting of activities to GBI, Southern Nevada Restoration Team, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for databases or data calls, as needed.
• Assist with wildlife management activities, including duck banding and migratory songbird banding.
• Assist maintenance staff with repair of fleet vehicles, heavy equipment, or buildings, when needed.

Benefits

• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance.
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost.
• Competitive PTO accrual and paid holidays.
• Eligible for 401(k) retirement savings with up to 4% GBI match.
• Access to Pro Deals.
• Housing is available onsite at Pahranagat NWR (approx. $175/month) in a shared bunkhouse.

What This Job Offers

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