Position summary

The US Geological Survey (USGS) Fort Collins Science Center is seeking an early career ecologist to contribute to a team that synthesizes science for public land management activities on western lands. The candidate will be provided with important research and training opportunities, joining an existing collaboration between USGS scientists and resource managers from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and other agencies within and outside of the Department of the Interior that seek to coproduce science and data products that inform public lands decision making. The immediate focus of this position will be working with a USGS team to synthesize available data, research, analysis methods, and mitigation measures related to the potential effects of priority energy development and natural resource management activities on resources of concern in the west. We anticipate that a series of synthesis and related data and analysis products will focus on energy development, fire and fuels management, livestock grazing, and recreation topics. The candidate will work with the team to identify relevant scientific papers, reports, and datasets, summarize and synthesize key findings, analyze potential effects on resources of concern, and identify tested actions for mitigating potential adverse effects to resources of concern. This position will also be working with the team to draft, review, edit, and publish the associated reports and other products as part of USGS Fundamental Science Practices. The position may also contribute to related projects focused on developing actionable science and data products to support decision-making on federal public lands. The candidate will work as part of a team under the direction of Dr. Sarah Carter at the USGS Fort Collins Science Center.

Position qualifications

Candidates must have completed an MS degree or higher in natural resources management, ecology, conservation, or a related field to be eligible for consideration. Candidates must be either currently enrolled at a college or university or have completed their latest graduate degree within the last 12 months to be eligible for the position. Full-time in person work at the USGS Fort Collins Science Center in Fort Collins, Colorado is preferred, but part time and remote options may be considered.

Familiarity with natural resource management issues on western public lands is strongly desired, with a focus on one or more of the following topics: energy development (including reclamation), fire, livestock grazing, recreation, and potential effects to invasive annual grasses, ungulates, soils, native vegetation, water resources, or public health. Familiarity with environmental effects analyses and the National Environmental Policy Act are also highly desirable. Applicants must demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills and a strong desire to work with natural resource managers on public land management issues in western North America. Applicants should possess strong collaboration and time-management skills. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens and undergo a background check.

This position will be hired as a student services contractor. Student Services Contractors participate in scientific research projects at USGS Science Centers across the US and work directly with USGS scientists to gain hands-on experience in real-world science projects, build technical and professional skills, explore potential science careers and pathways, and receive mentorship from experienced scientists (https://www.usgs.gov/youth-and-education-in-science/student-services-contractors). Candidates will need to have an active SAMS account (System for Award Management, sam.gov) prior to appointment.