Position Details

Position Information

Position: Monitoring Technician (Seasonal)

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Job Type: Term Appointment

Position Summary: The Ecological Monitoring Technician is an integral member of the New Mexico Forest and Watershed Restoration Institute (NMFWRI). The Ecological Monitoring Program at NMFWRI maintains a professionally managed field crew to collect data on short and long-term ecosystem responses to restoration treatments, wildfires, climate change, and other disturbances. This data provides a critical scientific basis for adaptive management decisions and improved treatment effectiveness. The program also works with partners to build statewide capacity in ecological monitoring, adaptive management, and restoration.

This seasonal Technician position is responsible for working on crews carrying out NMFWRI’s ecological monitoring and restoration activities on public and private lands throughout New Mexico, and assisting in the reporting of these activities. This position works with the Ecological Monitoring program manager and our team, and other NMFWRI teams as needed. This position will focus especially on assisting the riparian Crew Lead.

We welcome candidates who can work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team of professionals working towards wildfire resilience, post-fire restoration, and watershed conservation. This position will require excellent attention to detail; good self-care; a passion for working outdoors; a strong safety ethic and robust organizational skills.

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to participating in the monitoring field crew in data collection (including overnight travel and lots of driving); equipment inventory and maintenance; assisting with data analysis and reporting; participating in the creation, revision and publication of training and other materials; providing training to various audiences; and some administrative tasks.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform field measurements and assessments of forest, wetland, and riparian resources and ecological indicators, including data recording and quality assurance. Work is often performed in remote locations over difficult terrain. NOTE: In the event that the anticipated field work is not available, duties may include preparing educational materials, performing data entry, and assisting in the planning of a riparian restoration symposium.
• Perform computer entry of field data including using Microsoft Excel, Access, FFI, and other database software with attention to detail.
• Perform QC/QA of data.
• Assist the monitoring staff in generating summary reports and analysis of field and vegetation treatment data.
• Perform field mapping of project sites using Global Positioning System and Geographic Information Systems technologies.
• Take a support role in crew preparation, management, and accomplishment of field tasks, including crew safety.
• Assist NMFWRI staff and NMHU faculty in conducting training related to ecological measurement, treatment, and analysis techniques.
• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of NMFWRI equipment.
• Participate in the accomplishment of riparian, wetlands, forest, and watershed restoration treatments.
• Maintain regular attendance and clear communication with supervisors and colleagues in office, field, and online working environments.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in a natural resource field including coursework pertinent to the duties described above such as botany, ecology, forestry, water resources, and GIS; or equivalent experience.

EXPERIENCE: Familiarity with ecological monitoring protocols.

EXPERIENCE: One season’s experience on a field crew.

Preferred Qualifications

EXPERIENCE: 1 years’ experience in the measurement of riparian, wetland, forest and related ecological indicators.

EXPERIENCE: 1 year experience with plant ID.

EXPERIENCE: Outdoor leadership.

EDUCATION: Wilderness First Aid or higher.

Special Conditions for Eligibility

Must have or be able to obtain and maintain a valid US Driver’s License and Defensive Driving Certificate.

Must be willing to work overtime and occasional overnights as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Familiarity with ecological measurement and techniques.

Knowledge of basic forestry and ecological science concepts.

Familiarity with GNSS-based field data collection techniques and ESRI geographic information systems software.

Knowledge of plant ID and particularly in the range of southwest vegetation types.

Effective time management and ability to achieve goals and independently undertake tasks with minimum direct supervision.

Ability to work as a member of team with diverse skills and backgrounds.

Ability to communicate both orally and in written form.

Physical Demands

Standing: Frequently

Walking (cross country): Frequently

Bending: Frequently

Squatting: Frequently

Climbing (difficult terrain): Frequently

Kneeling: Frequently

Working Environment

Outdoors: 60%

Office: 40%

Balance subject to change based on fieldwork availability.

Pay Rate: $18.76/hr + DOE

Work Location/Campus Center: Las Vegas, NM Campus

EEO Statement: New Mexico Highlands University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. We are committed to the University values of diversity, accessibility, excellence, and responsiveness. For disabled access or services call 505-454-3242 or email hr@nmhu.edu. Visit the link below for more information regarding affirmative action and equal opportunity: Equal Employment Opportunity is THE LAW.