Invasive Species Monitor (USFWS, Pahranagat and Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuges)

The Research Associate Program at GBI, in cooperation with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), is recruiting an Invasive Species Monitor for Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).  The selected candidate would be responsible for familiarizing themselves with native upland and wetland flora so that they may identify invasive and non-native species that post potential risks to the refuge’s diverse ecosystems.

The recipient will work independently and with others to accomplish refuge work plans to manage native habitats and wildlife to achieve the purpose of the refuge, and to provide critical wetland habitat for migratory birds, with special emphasis on waterfowl.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Inventory and monitor the refuge’s plant communities, including detailed mapping of invasive species occurring on the refuge with use of GIS applications to produce baseline maps and plant community reports;
• Assist with developing survey techniques and standard operating procedures (SOP) for future plant community/invasive species surveys;
• Assist with implementation of the refuge’s Integrated Pest Management System (IPM) to treat invasive species occurring on the refuge, with special focus in wetland habitats using chemical and mechanical methods;
• Track project work progress and assist with documentation of invasive species treatments with use of GIS applications;
• Act as a crew leader to lead invasive species monitoring and treatments with volunteers and public groups conducting service projects on the refuge;
• Assist with restoration efforts after invasive species eradication;
• Aid in the installation/construction of signs and barriers where necessary, to prevent the degradation of sensitive habitat; and
• Complete necessary reporting of activities to GBI, Southern Nevada Restoration Team, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for databases or data calls, as needed.

Timeline:

• Pending availability and completion of DOI Background Investigation; 52 weeks; and
• Full time (40 hours/week).

Location:

 Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a protected wildlife refuge in northeastern Clark County near the town of Moapa, NV. It is roughly 60 miles north of Las Vegas, Nevada. Moapa Valley National Wildlife Refuge is protected to benefit the federally endangered Moapa dace (a small fish) and its habitat. Several endemic, spring-dependent species occur on the refuge. 

In addition to the scenic desert beauty at the Refuge, there are several other recreational and natural setting opportunities to explore close by. Valley of Fire State Park, Death Valley National Park, Mojave National Preserve, Joshua Tree National Park, Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Lake Mead National Recreation Area and more are within a few hours driving distance and afford a variety of outdoor activities ranging from hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing to fishing, boating and skiing/snowboarding.

Compensation and Benefits:

Compensation: $21.00 hourly.

Benefits:

• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance;
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost;
• Personal leave and holidays; and
• Access to Pro Deals.

Housing: Housing is available onsite at Pahranagat NWR (approx. $150/month).

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (botany or conservation), wildlife ecology or management, or related field;
• Familiarity and experience with Great Basin or Mojave Desert plants;
• Ability to use GPS units or FieldMaps to record and locate points and to record field data;
• Familiarity with and interest in the ecology of desert wetland and riparian habitat and associated resource management issues;
• Experience in collecting data accurately and completely and entering data correctly into a computer system;
• Familiarity with use of ArcGIS to create, import, and export maps and data;
• Possess a valid, state-issued driver’s license and clean driving record;
• Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle on unimproved roads;
• Ability to self-direct and self-motivate;
• Ability to work productively, consistently and cooperatively as part of a team to accomplish mutual goals;
• Possess strong organizational skills;
• Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently with the public, coworkers, and Technical Advisors both orally and in writing, and respond in a professional manner to inquiries from the public regarding work activities;
• Ability to safely conduct strenuous fieldwork requiring regular physical exertion including hiking on uneven terrain; and
• Ability to work outdoors for long periods of time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions such as hot, cold and/or humid conditions.

Preferred:

• Ability to lift and carry heavy items, such as equipment packs weighing up to 50 pounds, on a regular basis;
• Familiarity with backcountry, low-impact principles; and
• Plant identification skills and previous experience in invasive plant management and/or restoration ecology.