Grassland loss is one of the greatest conservation challenges facing eastern North America. The Southeastern Grasslands Institute (SGI), founded in 2017, provides leadership in conserving and restoring grassland biodiversity across a 24-state region of the eastern United States. Through science, restoration, education, and partnerships, SGI works to protect some of the continent's most endangered ecosystems and the species that depend on them.

Austin Peay State University's Southeastern Grasslands Institute invites applications for a Seasonal Field Technician position based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This position will support restoration and conservation projects throughout the southeastern Appalachian region by assisting with field surveys, habitat restoration, native seed collection, monitoring, and data management.

The successful candidate will spend approximately 80% of their time in the field and 20% completing office-based tasks, including data entry, mapping, and reporting. Travel to project sites within approximately 200 miles of Chattanooga is expected, and SGI will cover all approved travel expenses. Training opportunities, certifications, and required personal protective equipment will be provided.

Position Details

• Position Type: Seasonal, Full-Time
• Compensation: $20.00 per hour
• Schedule:5 hours per week
• Duration: Approximately 6 months
• Position Dates: October 2026 – March 2027 (flexible)
• Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee
• Supervisor: Southeastern Appalachian Grasslands Coordinator

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct botanical surveys and vegetation assessments of southeastern grasslands.
• Assist with prescribed fire implementation and monitoring activities.
• Assist with woody vegetation reduction and habitat management projects.
• Support invasive species management efforts, including herbicide treatments.
• Collect native seed for restoration and conservation projects.
• Assist with planting and establishment of grassland reconstruction sites.
• Conduct grassland remnant assessments and monitoring activities.
• Monitor restoration sites and assist with evaluating restoration outcomes.
• Collect, organize, and maintain accurate field and project data.
• Assist with GIS mapping and spatial data collection.
• Contribute to project summaries and annual reports.
• Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, landowners, and project partners.
• Assist with workshops, trainings, volunteer events, and outreach activities.
• Participate in team meetings and occasional institute-wide meetings.
• Follow all safety protocols related to fieldwork, equipment operation, herbicide application, and prescribed fire activities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Interest in ecological restoration, conservation, and grassland management.
• Knowledge of southeastern flora and ecosystems preferred.
• Ability to identify plant species or willingness to learn.
• Ability to operate GPS equipment and collect accurate field data.
• Ability and willingness to operate four-wheel-drive vehicles on unimproved roads and rugged terrain.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and adapt to changing field conditions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in a variety of outdoor and indoor environments.
• Ability to hike over rugged terrain, including wetlands, grasslands, steep slopes, and remote natural areas.
• Ability to work safely around wildlife and in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, kneel, stoop, and perform repetitive physical tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to work occasional non-standard hours, including early mornings, to accommodate weather conditions, prescribed fire operations, or project needs.
• Willingness to work in hot, cold, wet, and otherwise challenging environmental conditions.

Required Qualifications

• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position.
• Must be willing to work with herbicides.
• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
• Experience maintaining accurate records and data.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience identifying southeastern plant species.
• Experience conducting vegetation or ecological surveys.
• Experience with ecological restoration, land management, or conservation fieldwork.
• Experience using GPS units, GIS software, or spatial data collection tools.
• Experience with prescribed fire or invasive species management.
• Experience working with volunteers or community groups.