New

Temporary Field Technician - Crested Butte, CO

North Carolina State University

$14-$15/hr

United States, Colorado, Crested Butte

Feb 26, 2025

Position Information

Posting Number	PG194925TM
Position Number	11ASO3421
Position Type	Temporary
Essential Job Duties	The Diversity in Changing Environments Lab at NC State University (PI: Dr. Will Petry) is hiring a temporary, full-time research technician to assist with field research in Colorado from mid-June to early September 2025. This position supports our ongoing study of plant demographic responses to environmental variation in collaboration with the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory ( RMBL). We collected detailed climatic and demographic data-growth, survival, reproduction, & germination-from several thousand permanently-marked individuals near the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory ( RMBL; ca. 8 miles north of Crested Butte, Colorado). We use these long-term census data along with experimental manipulations and environmental data to understand the current patterns of population composition, to forecast the near-term trajectories of populations, and to predict how environmental change will redistribute this species across the landscape. The selected technician will work in remote field sites across Gunnison County, CO (elevations 6,200-12,500 ft) and aid in field data collection for our study of plant demographic responses to environmental variation. The position involves intensive data collection of plant demographic variables from marked individuals in our study populations across Gunnison County. Most work is conducted in the field, with a small amount of lab and data management tasks. Key responsibilities: Field Data Collection - Record plant demographic data (growth, survival, reproduction, germination) from permanently-marked individuals Tagging and Mapping - Identify, tag, and map new study plants Experimental Setup - Assist with seed germination experiments Site Maintenance - Maintain plant tags, plot markers, and data loggers Driving - Operate a field vehicle on mountain roads to access research sites, including on mountain roads that may be narrow, slippery, windy, and unpaved Data Management - Perform data digitization, entry, and organization Work Conditions: Physical Demands: Requires strenuous hiking to remote and isolated study sites (up to 10 miles/day round-trip ), crouching, squatting, and kneeling on uneven terrain. Hiking on steep trails while at elevations up to 12,500 feet above sea level Driving on rough roads and though most field sites are near roads, several are a few miles away from the nearest road access Weather Exposure: Work occurs in temperatures ranging from 40F to >90F, with high winds, sun exposure, and precipitation. Remote Locations: Limited bathroom facilities and cell reception for long periods of the workday. Solo Work: While most fieldwork is in pairs/groups, some independent work will be required. Safety Measures: Training, personal protective equipment, first aid kit, and emergency communicator will be provided. Living Conditions: Housing provided at Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL). Rustic accommodations include cabins, tents, yurts, and shared kitchen facilities. Outhouses in lieu of indoor plumbing. More details: RMBL Housing Info This is a 12 week temporary job opportunity. Start date 06/16/2025 (flexible) with end date being 09/05/2025 (flexible). 40/hrs per week, Monday-Friday (some weekend work may be needed to accommodate plant phenology/weather/holidays) We encourage applicants of all experience levels, including those without prior field research experience.
Is Time Limited	No
If Yes, Appointment Length

Department Information

Job City & State	Crested Butte, CO
Department	Plant and Microbial Biology

System Information

Classification Title	Temporary-Professional NonFaculty
Working Title	Temporary Field Technician - Crested Butte, CO

Requirements and Preferences

Work Schedule	40/hrs per week
Other Work/Responsibilities	n/a
Minimum Experience/Education	Combination of training and experience required to perform the duties
Department Required Skills	Experience in biology, ecology, botany, environmental science or related field Must be comfortable driving field vehicle on unpaved, narrow or winding mountain roads Must be able to work safely and effectively independently or in a team setting
Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education	Experience using survey GPS/GNSS for spatial data collection Ability to create maps and visualize spatial data Experience with data entry, organization, management, and quality control using spreadsheet software Prior experience driving off-road/4WD vehicles Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) license
Required License or Certification	Valid driver's license
Valid NC Driver's License required?	No
Commercial Driver's License Required?	No

Recruitment Details

Anticipated Hiring Range	$14-$15/hr

Recruitment Dates

Job Open Date	02/26/2025

Applicant Information

Quick Link

https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/215421

AA/EEO

NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

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