The Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI), a program of Michigan State University Extension, will be hiring up to 8 field technicians to conduct field surveys in support of various MNFI research, monitoring, and inventory projects. Working closely with the principal investigators, technicians will plan field activities, conduct surveys, and ensure accurate data collection.

Duties will include evaluating potential sampling sites; conducting surveys for rare animal species; handling, measuring, and marking animals; collecting blood samples; recording vegetation and habitat characteristics; cleaning and maintaining equipment; processing specimens; and entering and compiling data in the field/office. Positions will focus primarily on surveys for rare amphibians and reptiles, with target group/species depending on position and projects, but will include surveys for Blanding’s turtles, spotted turtles, wood turtles, eastern massasaugas, and/or other herp species of conservation concern. Some positions also may include assisting with surveys for rare butterfly and other species. Field sampling will regularly require long hours and flexible work schedules under adverse working conditions (e.g., hot and humid weather, long and difficult hikes in wetlands, and biting insects). Access to reliable transportation (mileage reimbursed at standard rate), travel to study sites throughout Michigan, ability to stay overnight in hotels or campgrounds for up to a week at a time, and work over some holidays and/or weekends will be required.

Desired qualifications: familiarity with Michigan and/or Midwestern ecosystems; experience conducting reptile and amphibian surveys including handling and marking live animals; experience conducting butterfly and/ or freshwater mussel surveys; ability to identify common Michigan plant species; ability to navigate in the field via map, compass, and GPS; comfortable using watercrafts (kayaks, canoes, small boats) if needed; ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs.; proficiency in use of technology (e.g., web research, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, ArcGIS, Survey123, FieldMaps, etc.); a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to learn; ability to work independently and as part of a team in remote areas; ability to adapt and problem solve; effective oral and written communication skills; proven ability in establishing and working with a network of constituents and community members across race, gender, national origin, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, veteran status, socioeconomic class, disabilities, and other differences; understanding of and ability to implement Civil Rights principles and compliance standards; and other skills and/or physical abilities required to perform duties of the position.

Michigan State University Extension employment opportunities are open to eligible/qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, or family status. Persons with disabilities have the right to request and receive reasonable accommodations.