Seed Collection Crew Member (NPS, Prineville and Vale Districts)

GREAT BASIN INSTITUTE•Bend, OR

12d•$21 - $21

About The Position

The Great Basin Institute, in cooperation with the National Park Service (NPS), are recruiting three (3) Seed Collection Crew Members to conduct seed collecting and ecological restoration activities throughout the Blue Mountains ecoregion on Department of Interior (DOI) lands.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and/or coursework and field experience related to biology, botany, ecology, plant science, taxonomy/systematics, or related field
Experience identifying plants using taxonomic keys or familiarity with plants of the region
Experience with data entry
Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for data collection and navigation
Ability to read and navigate using topographic maps and a compass
Familiarity driving 4WD vehicles on- and off-road
Willingness and ability to work in harsh, ever-changing desert conditions, including extreme temperatures, and as part of a team
Willingness to camp in remote, undeveloped sites for multiple days, up to 8 days
Ability to bend and stoop for long periods of time while collecting seed, and to use hand tools, and occasionally lift buckets of water and other heavy loads
Ability to work a non-standard schedule, such as beginning at 5 am, to avoid heat-related issues, to follow plant phenology, or for coordination with team members.
Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally, with a diverse audience
Strong interpersonal skills and willingness to work as part of a tight knit team
Ability to work independently or in pairs with little supervision, strong initiative, and high attention to detail
Possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record

Nice To Haves

Experience operating All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) on difficult terrain, helpful for certain locations
Understanding and/or experience using ArcGIS Pro, and ESRI apps like Field Maps and Survey 123, helpful

Responsibilities

Scouting and identifying populations of target native plant species suitable for collection
Mapping of populations of plants, disturbance areas, and other features using tablets, handheld devices, ArcGIS Online, and ESRI apps such as FieldMaps and Survey 123
Monitoring the phenology of plant populations to identify optimal seed collection times
Collecting seed from plant populations for both operational and conservation collections in accordance with the Seeds of Success (SOS) Technical Protocol
Processing and shipping seed following standard industry procedure
Collecting herbarium vouchers, and processing and shipping in accordance with the SOS Technical Protocol
Recording data electronically and via paper data forms, entering and editing data related to restoration activities
Photographing collection sites and plants
Maintaining and regularly conducting inventory of field gear
Daily and monthly vehicle checks
Driving a truck for up to five hours a day
Traveling in a truck for up to ten hours a day
Assisting with the coordination of conservation crew work
Assisting with species survey work, as needed
Providing support for arid land restoration projects
Reporting accomplishments and providing recommendations for program improvements, priorities, and future projects
Participating in training provided by GBI, DOI agencies, and community partners

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
Access to Pro Deals such as Outdoor Prolink and Black Diamond
Training provided
SOS Seeds Collection and Protocol Training
Wilderness First Aid Training and Certification
Defensive Driver's Training (eligible for discounts on your personal vehicle insurance)
Report writing
Technical skills trainings
Opportunity to network with GBI and federal partners for career advancement