Grassland loss is the greatest conservation issue facing eastern North American biodiversity. Our precious Southeastern grasslands have suffered immeasurable losses, and the species that depend on them are fading fast. Many Southeastern grasslands that managed to persist through the past 200 years have disappeared over the past quarter-century. What will the next 25 years bring? If we want to reverse the tide of grassland biodiversity loss, our response must be rapid and unparalleled in magnitude. This immensely complex and ambitious challenge will take hard work, passion, and creativity. Are you ready to join the Southeastern Grasslands Institute’s team?

Austin Peay State University’s (APSU) Southeastern Grasslands Institute (SGI) invites applications for a Field Technician position based in the Roanoke/Salem, VA area. The Field Technician will be responsible for carrying out restoration and land management work at a diverse array of national parks across the Eastern US. There may also be some limited opportunities to assist with vegetation monitoring. The Field Technician will travel extensively throughout the year, typically working an 8 days on/6 days off hitch schedule, with overnight stays and travel expenses covered by grant funds. Up to 90% of time will be spent in the field. The Field Technician will receive daily direction from a Lead Field Technician and directly report to SGI’s Central Appalachian Grasslands Coordinator.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Implement grassland restoration and reconstruction projects in national parks across the Eastern US (ie, invasive species management, treating woody encroachment, site preparation, and planting of restoration seed mixes).
• Plan fieldwork activities with the Lead Field Technician. 
• Communicate project updates and needs with the Lead Field Technician.
• Assist in gathering written, photographic, and GIS data for each project location.
• Assist in writing and editing management plans for project locations.
• Read relevant materials and protocols.
• Participate in regular team meetings and SGI staff meetings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of grassland plant species and community types of the Southeastern and/or Mid-Atlantic United States.
• Knowledge of grassland restoration and reconstruction practices.
• Knowledge of invasive species management.
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to challenges.
• Ability to work as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work a non-standard schedule, such as working 8 days on followed by 6 days off,  beginning work at 5 am to avoid heat-related issues, or occasionally working late hours on time-sensitive needs.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and experience driving a wide variety of vehicles and ATVs, including 4WD.
• Must be able to hike over rugged terrain in a variety of landscapes (grasslands, wetlands, rugged hills, slopes, etc.)
• Willingness and ability to work in harsh, ever-changing environmental conditions, including hot temperatures, buggy conditions, and rain.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.

Required Minimum Qualifications

• Experience in grassland restoration and/or land management strongly preferred.
• Comes prepared with a good attitude and willingness to learn.
• Must have excellent organizational and task-management skills.
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate and work effectively with a wide variety of people.
• Strong commitment to ensuring that diversity and inclusion are considered throughout all aspects of the program.
• Must be flexible with travel and work schedules.