Plant Ecology Technician

The Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) of Colorado State University seeks a temporary Plant Ecology Technician to support ecological projects for the Botany/Vegetation Ecology Team.

This position will be based in Fort Collins, Colorado. The position requires extensive and frequent travel throughout Colorado and field sites in surrounding states (mainly in Kansas). The position will work with CNHP staff to survey and document natural plant communities, rare plant species and their habitat, and potential conservation areas. Ecological and botanical data will be collected following standards of the NatureServe-Core Methodology and by implementing quantitative methods to collect vegetation plot data.  

The position will interact with federal and state agencies and other partners.  

The work involves week-long to 8-day field hitches, camping in remote settings and full 8-10hr field days, driving and hiking to field sites, collection of data using tablets, and detailed completion of field forms. The technician will conduct surveys, record data, and provide data to the CO Natural Heritage Program during the term of employment. Work is subject to funding availability and Program needs. Hours are variable, up to 40 hrs./wk.  

Ability to identify western flora including common and rare species native to Colorado and surrounding states is required. Ability to recognize and identify exotic invasive species is required. Experience with Natural Community classification is preferred. Familiarity or experience with NatureServe-Core Methodology is preferred. 

Coursework in botany, ecology, natural resources, conservation, environmental science, or related field required. Completed bachelor’s degree botany, ecology, natural resources, conservation, environmental science, or related field is preferred. 

Experience conducting field work to collect botanical and/or ecological data is required. Experience working in habitats like the study areas including the Rocky Mountains and/or Great Plains is preferred.  

The ability to work in challenging field conditions, walk across uneven terrain, and stand, sit or stoop for extended periods are required. The ability to hike and navigate to field sites is required.  

Experience with field navigation, GIS use, navigation apps, and topographic maps required. Experience with ArcGIS Desktop or ArcGIS Pro and ability to make maps is required.   Familiarity or experience with the development of Field Maps projects and/or Survey 123 forms is preferred. Experience collecting data electronically using tablets or other devices is preferred.

A valid driver’s license is required. 

Successful candidates must possess working knowledge of tools, equipment, procedures and methods necessary to survey for and map natural plant communities and rare plant populations, possess excellent communication skills, excellent attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work effectively alone and as part of a team.  

The ability to plan and carry out field surveys, including locating specific habitats and survey sites, is required.   

Experience driving 4X4 vehicles on rough roads and camping in remote locations is required.