Herpetology Field Biologists

Herpetology Field Biologists Needed

Description
The Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Biological Monitoring Program is seeking one field biologist to assist with herpetofaunal surveys in western Riverside County, California. We are seeking staff for our herpetology field crew to conduct various surveys of sensitive species that include stream surveys (day and night) and pond turtle trapping. The hired biologist will collect data on herpetofaunal populations under the direction of the Herpetology Program Lead. Depending on herpetology crew work load, the hired crew may have an opportunity to participate in surveys for other plant and wildlife species.

Pay
Salary ranges from $12.00 to $15.00 per hour, depending on experience, paid bi-weekly. Positions are full-time, permanent, and include vacation and sick leave, medical insurance with dental and vision plans, and a retirement savings plan.

Examples of Duties
Hired field biologists will be expected to participate in stream surveys for coast range newt, arroyo toads and other stream dwelling herps, trap for western pond turtles, and in the winter will sample vernal pools for fairy shrimp and spadefoot toads. The biologist will also collect field data in accordance with established protocols; assist with the development and testing of sampling protocols; assist with office duties including the preparation of maps, data entry, and report preparation; attend meetings and training as appropriate; work flexible hours including some night surveys, occasional long days and backcountry camping; work in difficult environmental conditions including tough, uneven terrain, extremely brushy vegetation, mosquitoes, extreme heat and moderate cold; complete assigned tasks with little direct supervision in a timely fashion. Additionally, biologists will be expected to operate 4WD vehicles and PDAs, hike as much as 10 miles to access field sites in mountainous terrain, and carry a 25-30 pound backpack.

Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have completed a bachelor?s degree and have a general understanding of herpetology. Work towards a bachelor's degree (with biology-related course work) and one or more years of field biology experience is also acceptable.

Qualifications that are desirable but not required include:

Familiarity and experience with standard herp sampling protocols, including PIT tag procedures; knowledge of southern California herp species. Owning personal camping/backpacking equipment is desirable but not required.

Other Requirements
A valid U.S. Driver's License and U.S. citizenship, or the ability to work legally in the U.S. (Declaration of Permission to Work form), are required.

Positions are full-time and intended to last at least 12 months. No short-term or part-time applicants will be considered. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but no later than 28 March 2008. Qualified candidates should send a resume and cover letter
to: