Research Associate I - Tarwater Field Crew Leader, Zoology & Physiology

University of Wyoming • Laramie, HI

21h • Onsite

About The Position

Join Our Campus Community! Thank you for your interest in joining the University of Wyoming. Our community thrives on the contributions of talented and driven individuals who share in our mission, vision, and values. If your expertise and experience align with the goals of our institution, we would be thrilled to hear from you. We encourage you to apply and become a valued member of our vibrant campus community today! Why Choose Us? At the University of Wyoming, we value our employees and invest in their success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. At the University of Wyoming, we are committed to creating a supportive and enriching workplace. JOB TITLE: Research Associate I - Field Crew Leader for Hawai’i VINE Project JOB PURPOSE: Conduct investigative research requiring the application and analysis of standard tests and procedures as defined by the project. We are seeking an experienced biologist to be the field crew leader for project on Oʻahu, Hawai’i as part of the Hawai’i VINE (Vertebrate Introductions and Novel Ecosystems) Project. The project is a multi-disciplinary effort between University of Hawaiʻi-Mānoa, Northern Arizona University, University of Wyoming, and US Army Natural Resources Program. The VINE project has been running since 2014 and has involved over 70 field technicians, 20 undergraduate students, and 6 graduate students. The project has also been involved in over 150 outreach events on Oʻahu, an essential part of our mission. The VINE project investigates seed dispersal networks comprised of interacting native and non-native plant and vertebrate species in mesic and wet forest ecosystems. Specifically, the project will focus on (1) quantifying vertebrate seed dispersers and their interactions across space and time, (2) conducting an experiment to remove non-native plant species and evaluate the impacts on bird behavior and seed dispersal of the remaining plants, and (3) evaluating the factors that influence temporal variation in seed dispersal. Field work will include invasive plant removal, behavioral observations, point counts, game cameras on plants, identification of and surveys of plants, and plant experiments. The candidate selected for this position will work closely with the graduate students on the project. The candidate will train field technicians, help hire field technicians, conduct field work, oversee monthly reports to funding agency, help organize monthly outreach, and oversee equipment maintenance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, natural resources management, wildlife biology or related field
• 1 year work-related experience
• Valid driver's license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) compliant with the Driving for University Business SAP .

Nice To Haves

• Two years of field experience
• Previous supervisory experience of field crews
• Previous work experience in Hawaiʻi, particularly on plants
• Previous experience with plant identification
• Demonstrated clear, articulate, and respectful written and oral communication skills
• Experience and demonstrated ability to effectively work independently and as a team
• Effective time management skills, clear organization and prioritization of time-sensitive tasks
• Knowledge and use of Microsoft Office

Responsibilities

• Supervise a field crew of 4-8 people
• Coordinate with graduate students on the project
• Travel to sites associated with project to collect data/specimens.
• Aid in hiring and training new field technicians
• Oversee monthly reports to funding agency and VINE Team
• Oversee equipment maintenance
• Help organize monthly outreach
• Communicate with field technicians, graduate students, and PIs on the project in an efficient and respectful manner

Benefits

• Generous Retirement Contributions: The State contributes 14.94% of your gross salary, and you contribute 3.68%, totaling 18.62% toward your retirement plan.
• Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage: Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs .
• Paid Time Off: Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.
• Tuition Waiver: Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs: Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

What This Job Offers

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