Monitoring Technician

Position Summary

The New Mexico Forest and Watershed Restoration Institute (NMFWRI), which is located at New Mexico Highlands University, is a statewide effort that engages government agencies, academic and research institutions, land managers, and the interested public in the areas of forest and watershed management. We work with agencies and stakeholders at all levels!The position is responsible for supporting NMFWRI’s ecological monitoring and restoration activities on public and private lands throughout New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado. Projects will require travel across the state. Activities are related to all phases of restoration from research through project implementation and monitoring. Position will focus on assisting upland Crew Leads with ecological monitoring in forest environments and spend a majority of the time in the field. Pay is commensurate with experience. Position will only be filled if funding is available.

Duties & Resposibilities

• Perform field measurements and assessments of forest resources and ecological indicators, including data recording and quality assurance. Work is often performed in remote locations over difficult terrain.
• Perform computer entry of field data including using FFI, Microsoft Excel, Access, or other database software with attention to detail.
• Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of NMFWRI equipment, including basic vehicle maintenance.
• Maintain regular attendance and clear communication with supervisors and colleagues in office field, and online working environments.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Perform QC/QA of data
• Assist 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.
• Assist NMFWRI staff and NMHU faculty in conducting training related to ecological measurement, treatment, and analysis techniques.

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in a Natural Resources / Forestry/ Environmental Science or related field or equivalent experience (4 years)

EXPERIENCE: Familiarity with ecological monitoring protocols

Applicants must:

• Have an interest in forestry, natural resource management, and/or ecological restoration
• Be a team player with a strong work ethic, attention to detail, a positive attitude, and good self-care
• Be willing to hike, camp, and travel 4 days per week during the summer (sometimes out of cell range, in remote areas of New Mexico)
• Be willing to work early mornings and long days; be willing to work in an office; be willing to work on a flexible schedule as needed to meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

EXPERIENCE: 1 years’ experience in the measurement of forest and related ecological indicators

EDUCATION: Wilderness First Aid or higher.

Special Conditions for Eligibility

• Must have or be able to obtain and maintain a valid Driver’s License and Defensive Driving Certificate.
• Must be willing to drive vehicles in on- and off-road settings on a regular basis.
• Must be willing to work overtime, weekends and evenings as required.

Knowledge, Skills, & 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
• Lifting over 40lbs Frequently

Working Environment

Outdoors 90% / Indoors 10%

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