Ecological Monitoring Crew Lead/Botanist (Wetlands)

The University of Montana (UM) O’Connor Center for the Rocky Mountain West (OCRMW) is partnering with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to implement their Riparian and Wetland Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) strategy. This protocol is targeted at collecting standardized inventory and long-term vegetation and soils data at multiple scales across BLM Districts in the Western U.S.

We are currently recruiting Crew Lead/Botanists with experience in botany, ecology, and soil science for data collection in Idaho and Nevada from May through August/September 2023 (exact dates vary by project).

The Crew Lead/Botanist will lead 2 technicians to collect vegetation and soils data in wetland and riparian ecosystems. Crews of 3 people work eight-day hitches: 10-hours/day, from Tuesday-Tuesday, with a six-day break between hitches. All positions are field-based and require working and camping in isolated regions. We askseasonal staff to commit to the entire field season, practice safety awareness, safe driving policies, and contribute to building a healthy, productive, and enjoyable work environment.

Applicants should understand that this is a physically demanding position. Crews often work and camp in inclement weather conditions, frequently navigating rough, unpaved roads in 4×4 vehicles, and carry heavy loads (40 lbs.) by foot over rugged desert and mountainous terrain. Sampling locations are occasionally near small towns, but these towns often have few amenities. Primitive camping is required. Cell phone service is limited.

• All positions include (tax-free):
  • $244 meal per diem per 8-day hitch
  • $300 one-time equipment stipend
  • $300 additional stipend upon completion of season

Applications review will begin December 7 and will continue until the position is filled.