Organizational Background 

The Vermont Center for Ecostudies (VCE) is a preeminent conservation organization in New England that strives to advance the conservation of wildlife and their habitats through research, monitoring, and community engagement. Our biologists investigate the intricate networks of ecological relationships across many scales from mercury pollution in songbirds to the migratory ecology of insects. VCE is located along the Connecticut River in the vibrant community of Hartford, Vermont. Our staff is committed to creating a compassionate and inclusive workplace culture that values the physical and emotional well-being of all employees.  

Position Summary 

VCE seeks to hire a seasonal field technician to conduct pollinator flower visitation surveys and other insect sampling activities.  The technician will assist with two research projects throughout the summer: 

(1) Native Plant Ecotype Project. Collecting data within a common garden experiment designed to compare pollinator support among local and non-local plant ecotypes. Field work will consist of measuring plant phenology, flower abundance, collecting nectar and pollen samples, and conducting systematic surveys of plant-pollinator interactions within the gardens. Lab work will include processing of pollen and nectar samples, bee specimen pinning, and data entry. Some garden maintenance is also required. (~25+ hours per week)

(2) Caterpillars Count! Project. As part of a cross-continental effort, the technician will assist with weekly foliage arthropod surveys using beat-sheet techniques, collecting frass samples from collection traps, and regular upkeep of an automated moth detection system. (~5 hours per week)

This is an approximately 12-week position that is expected to run from early June through the end of August (start and end dates are flexible and may be extended if needed). The field technician will work primarily with Desirée Narango, Ph.D. (Conservation Scientist), Amber Jones (Staff Biologist), and our summer field interns. Training will be provided for all data collection techniques. Opportunities to gain exposure with other insect and bird research projects are possible. 

Responsibilities 

Native Plant Ecotype Project data collection and maintenance (70%), Caterpillars Count! data collection and equipment maintenance (15%), data entry and field logistics (15%). 

Minimum Qualifications 

• Educational background in ecology, entomology, wildlife ecology, or a related field. 
• A proven ability to learn quickly. 
• Experience with ecological field work.  
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving history. 
• Must be willing to work in a variety of conditions, including hot, sunny weather or light rain
• Must be comfortable working independently and with a team
• Must have good communication skills. 

Preferred Qualifications.

• General insect identification skills, at least to order
• Experience collecting insects for identification
• Experience with bee identification or conducting pollinator surveys 

Compensation 

$19-21/hour depending on experience. Seasonal, nonexempt. The work schedule will require flexibility in the event of inclement weather, but will be no more than 35-40 hours/week, from June through August, with start and end dates flexible and negotiable for the right candidate. A personal vehicle is necessary, and mileage reimbursement is provided at the federal rate for required travel. All field work is within 20 minutes of our office in White River Junction, VT.