FIELD BOTANY TECHNICIAN POSITION: The Puerto Rican Harlequin Butterfly Working Group
is seeking a field botany technician for a monitoring project in Puerto Rico.
This is a field position conducting plant surveys outdoors in collaboration
with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and Puerto Rico Department of
Natural and Environmental Resources. Upon hire, the successful candidate could
begin work as early as February 2018 and continue through December 2018.
RESPONSIBILITIES: The successful candidate will
conduct vegetation monitoring during the contracted period at nine sites in
Isabella, Maricao, Quebradillas and Susua State Forest. The candidate will work
closely with three field biologists to conduct surveys and characterize
vegetation at 27 transects during a minimum of four separate sampling events.
The candidate will be expected to characterize the survey transects and
document seasonal changes in fauna throughout the year. The candidate will also
assist biologists in the identification of host plants and nectar sources for
the butterflies. All data and reports will be provided to the project
coordinator per contract stipulations.
QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates interested in the position
should have the ability to identify plant species found in Puerto Rico to
family, genus and species level. College-level coursework in botany, biology,
forestry, natural resources, or related program of study is desirable and
botanical field experience is preferred. Must have effective communication
skills and be able to work as part of a team. Good record keeping skills and
attention to detail are highly desired. Proficiency in using Microsoft Word and
Excel, and GPS technology is a plus. The candidate must have their own
transportation to all sites, some of which are remote.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics
described here are representative of this position: Ability to work irregular
hours, work in the field with prolonged walking, stooping and standing.
Exposure to hot conditions. Ability to maneuver on uneven terrain and among
thick vegetation. Must have physical strength and endurance sufficient to carry
field equipment and supplies.
SALARY: This is a contracted position for one year.
Salary is dependent upon the number of sampling events the candidate can
fulfil. A minimum of four sampling events is required.
APPLICATION: Send email cover letter and resume to dbarber@fortworthzoo.org with
subject line “Field Botany Technician”. Application deadline is February 9th,
2018.
