POSITION TITLE: Biologist II (Plants and Biological Soil Crusts), two positions available

STATUS: Full time, non-exempt, seasonal position (roughly 6-month term)

REPORTS TO: Deputy Director

POSITIONS REPORTING TO THIS POSITION: none

LOCATION: Reno, Nevada

EXPECTED PAY RANGE: $24.35 - $29.79 / hour DOE

Description: This position will work in collaboration with the US Geological Survey (USGS) – Western Ecological Research Center. The Biologist position will work with a growing team from focused on vegetation and biocrusts within a larger program dedicated to the topic of sagebrush ecosystems. The focus of this position is analysis and writing related to sagebrush ecosystems, with a special focus on habitat for sage-grouse, management and restoration of vascular plants and biological soil crusts. Field work should also be expected as part of the position. The Biologist will need to show that they have the ability to analyze community data, with a willingness to learn about biocrusts and plant communities. Projects are funded primarily by state and federal partners (e.g., Nevada Dept. of Wildlife, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife Service). This position will include a combination of office and field work. Field work can involve 8-day hitches, camping in remote locations, and participating in safety check in threads. Field work may be up to 50% of the position during field season.

Study System: Field locations are across the Great Basin and Eastern California. During field work, 8-day hitches in remote locations will typically be required.

The Sagebrush ecosystems of the Great Basin and Eastern California are unique and support a diversity of flora and fauna. With this opportunity, you will get the chance to work closely with endemic species, explore large expanses of public land and participate in recreational activities including camping, hiking, climbing, hot springs, mountain biking, and many more!

Expectations and Core Accountabilities

• Analyzing plant and biocrust community data and writing papers and reports.
• Coordinating with managers and team members on co-produced science.
• Assisting with field efforts when needed, up 50% of time during field season.

Desired expertise/skills

Minimum Qualifications

• All applicants must possess a valid U.S. driver’s license
• Experience with GIS experience as well as R
• Previous experience collecting biological data in remote, difficult working environments
• Driving four-wheel drive vehicles on dirt roads
• Working under challenging weather conditions as are common in the Great Basin, specifically hot-dry conditions, and cold-windy conditions
• Attention to detail, critical thinking on the fly, and ability to make deadlines
• A graduate degree related to natural resources and environmental science

Desired qualifications

• Master’s or PhD degree with on focus on biological soil crusts, in environmental science, Botany, Ecology, or similar field of study
• Experience with vegetation in the Great Basin region, especially plant and biocrust identification.

Benefits

• Employer paid health, dental, and vision plans.
• Employer paid Employee Assistance Program for mental health and personal counseling.
• Generous vacation and sick leave.
• Pro-deals for outdoor industry.
• Employer paid professional development

Working Conditions

Work will take place in office, lab, outdoor lab, and field settings. Field work can involve exposure to extreme temperature and weather conditions, including long hours standing, bending, walking, and performing tasks that require physical exertion. Incumbents may be required to lift containers weighing up to 35 pounds in the performance of the assignment. Incumbents will be expected to work 40 hours/week.