[ESSP] Ecological Field Assistant Posting - Amherst MA

[Steve Roof]

I'm looking for a research technician to help with a amphibian study
and thought you might know Hampshire students interested in the
position.    If you do please forward the included description.

Thanks!
Ethan Plunkett



POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT:
Field Research Technician, Amphibian Metapopulation Study

TERM OF EMPLOYMENT:  May through mid-October, 2004.  Some flexible
scheduling (e.g., around class times) may be possible.

DUTIES:  Looking for a part-time research technician (~15hrs/wk.) to
assist in field work for a project studying population dynamics of
vernal pool breeding amphibians in the CT River Valley of
Massachusetts.  Job responsibilities will include: 1) opening,
repairing and maintaining drift fence arrays and pitfall traps at 14
ephemeral wetland sites, 2) running fences daily to check traps, 3)
identifying, recording, and releasing all captured vertebrates (over 20
species of reptiles and amphibians). Work load is largely
weather-driven, and therefore will include periods of many short days
followed by periods of extensive daytime and nighttime work.

QUALIFICATIONS:  B.S. and field experience in biological sciences or
natural resources conservation preferred but not required.  Driver's
license and personal vehicle required, but work does not require use of
vehicle on-site.  Individual must be enthusiastic and willing to work
long and sometimes irregular hours in demanding and strenuous field
conditions (including mosquitoes, hot days, cool and rainy nights, more
mosquitoes*).  Familiarity with New England amphibians and reptiles
will be helpful, but training will be provided.  Individual should be
detail-oriented and willing to take responsibility for consistent and
accurate data collection. The ability to work well with others as well
as independently is a must. This is a great opportunity for someone
interested in a temporary but intensive learning fieldwork experience
and/or considering graduate work with amphibians.  Compensation is
$10-$12/hour depending on experience (does not include housing).

TO APPLY:  Please send Resume/CV, Cover Letter, and a list of three
references to:

Ethan Plunkett
Department of Natural Resources Conservation
Holdsworth Natural Resources Center
University of Massachusetts
160 Holdsworth Way
Amherst, MA 01003-9285
	or
eplunkett at forwild.umass.edu

The position will remain open until filled.


Feel free to contact me (eplunkett at forwild.umass.edu) with any
questions.