Sycan Marsh Field Ecologist

The Sycan Marsh (SM) Field Ecologist will conduct field work for and summarize data from wetland ecological research, focusing on hydrologic, vegetative, and soil interactions with prescribed fire, invasive weeds, and cattle grazing.

Specifically, position will assist with sampling design implementation; survey ground elevation; collect and summarize surface water, plant species, and soil data (some soil laboratory analysis); and create spatial data sets using a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit and Geographic Information System (GIS) software. The SM Field Ecologist will work with the SM Stewardship Ecologist in developing sampling protocols. Position requires working closely as part of a team, as well as working alone.

Applicants must have a graduate degree and/or equivalent experience in field data collection, data management and analysis, strong plant identification and soil knowledge, and proficiency in field/desktop computers and software (spreadsheets/word processing/databases). Must demonstrate an attention to detail in field sampling, laboratory analysis, and data management. Experience with statistical sampling and statistical and GIS software preferred.

Physical requirements of the job include the ability to swim, hike 8-10 miles a day, and lift 40 pounds. Applicants must be willing to work outdoors on a wetland marsh under variable weather conditions, often including extreme temperatures and biting insects. A valid driver's license and the ability to drive an all-terrain vehicle is required. Applicants may need to provide their own transportation at times. This position is based on The Nature Conservancy's Sycan Marsh Preserve near Silver Lake, Oregon.

The Sycan Marsh Field Ecologist is a non-exempt position supervised by the SM Stewardship Ecologist. The position begins April 1, 2002, and ends September 20, 2002. Three positions may be available. The SM Field Ecologist will be paid $8.75 to $9.75/hour for 40 hours/week, depending on experience. A wooden-floored, canvas-walled tent with a cot will be provided for sleeping. Modern kitchen and shower facilities are available in the nearby research station.

Application Deadline: March 15, 2002

Applications must include two copies of (1) a resume, (2) a cover letter providing more in-depth information on your academic and professional experience, (3) two letters of reference, and (4) the names, addresses, and phone numbers of three references. The letters of reference must be submitted with the r?m?cover letter, and reference list. Confidential, sealed, original reference letters are not required. If you wish, the authors of your reference letters may be among those people included on your reference list. Your name and the position(s) for which you are applying must be noted in the top right-hand corner of the cover letter, r?m?and reference list. You may apply for more than one position. Please collate and staple each application separately in this order: cover letter, r?m?list of references, reference letters.

Please note that we request that you submit two (2) copies of all application materials for each job, including letters of reference.

We have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions for applicants. If you have questions, please go to The Nature Conservancy's web site at nature.org/oregon. Then choose "Job Opportunities" on the left and look for "Frequently Asked Questions" under "Seasonal Employment". Available positions are also listed there under "Current Openings".

Positions lasting over six months will include a benefits package (medical and dental insurance, vacation). If benefits are provided, it is noted at the end of the individual position description.

Because we typically receive hundreds of applications for these job openings, it is not feasible for us to individually address all inquiries regarding specifics about positions. If you believe a job-as it is described in the job posting-is a good match for your background and career interests, we encourage you to apply following the instructions on the job posting. In order to be consistent and fair to all applicants, we have made a decision not to meet with or discuss the specifics of the positions with individual candidates before the interview phase of the recruitment. Exceptions are possible for some logistical questions. We will be happy to provide additional information on positions to candidates who are selected for an interview.

The starting and ending dates of all of the positions are somewhat flexible. In your cover letter, please indicate the earliest starting and latest ending dates that you will be available. Please also indicate how you learned about the position.

If there is a change in the information you submitted, please notify us in writing.

Send applications to the attention of:

Seasonal Employment

The Nature Conservancy of Oregon

821 SE 14th Avenue

Portland, Oregon 97214-2537

If you need verification that your application arrived, we request that you send it using certified, return receipt mail or a delivery confirmation request. We do not have the resources to return the high volume of contacts we receive inquiring about application status. Once a candidate has been hired, we will notify all candidates in the pool within 10 business days that the position has been filled.