POSITION: Several wetland ecology technician positions are available with the Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands. These are seasonal positions (June through September) located at Fort Wainwright, Alaska in support of the Natural Resources Program.

ORGANIZATION: The Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands is a research, education and service unit within the Warner College of Natural Resources at CSU. CEMML applies the latest and most appropriate science to promote the sustainable management of natural and cultural resources on Department of Defense (DOD) and other public lands. We provide technical support, conduct applied research, and offer career development and learning opportunities to support resource stewardship. We collaborate with our sponsors and within CSU to resolve complex environmental issues, leaving a legacy of science-based decisions that sustain our resources for future generations. To learn more about CEMML’s contributions to land management, our mission, vision, and values, visit http://www.cemml.colostate.edu/.

LOCATION: Work will occur on Fort Wainwright and Donnelly Training Area, both in interior Alaska. Fort Wainwright is located on the east side of Fairbanks, Alaska. Locally, Fort Wainwright encompasses over 900,000 acres, including a main post area of 4,470 acres, 8,825 acres of ranges, and over 890,000 acres of military maneuver areas. Approximately 15,000 people live and work at Fort Wainwright. Fairbanks is the second largest city in Alaska by population and hosts movie theaters, museums, parks, extensive hiking and biking paths, Alaska’s largest university and numerous outdoor recreational activities. Donnelly Training Area is part of the Fort Wainwright maneuver range and is located near Delta Junction, interior Alaska’s agricultural center. Delta Junction is a small town of just under 1,000 residents and is located about 90 miles south of Fairbanks, the closest city. The town has incredible views and access to the Alaska Range, the Delta, Tanana and Clearwater Rivers, and basic services (groceries, library, and medical clinic). Summertime climate in both locations is typically sunny with temperatures of 60–90 °F.

RESPONSIBILITIES: The successful candidate will assist with wetland mapping on Army lands. Identification of wetlands is based on a three-parameter approach involving indicators of hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soil, and wetland hydrology. Main duties include off-trail hiking to field site locations, plant collection and cataloging, plant identification with field guides and botanical keys, digging soil pits, coloring and texturing soils, and describing soil profiles. Employees may also be asked to perform other natural resource support duties. Also integral to this position are identifying hydric soil and wetland hydrology indicators, knowledge of soil formation, interpreting aerial photos, locating plots with GPS units, entering data into databases, working in inclement conditions, occasionally camping in remote areas, traveling in fixed and rotary wing aircraft, and operating ATVs and 4-wheel drive trucks. Out-of-state applicants are encouraged to apply, though they should note that off-duty transportation and relocation costs are not provided.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: These positions require a bachelor’s degree in soil science, hydrology, botany, biological science, wetland or terrestrial ecology, or a closely related field. Applicants must have prior field data collection experience and be versed in using botanical keys (i.e., Flora of the Yukon Territory) and collecting floristic data. Candidates should be capable of following detailed protocols, working effectively in small groups, and conducting repetitive tasks in an office setting as well as outside in cold, wet and mosquito infested conditions while hiking for up to 10 hours per day on uneven, wet terrain carrying a 30 lb. pack and a shovel. U.S. citizenship or legal documentation is required. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: Successful applicants will preferably have knowledge of northern boreal plant ecology and a working understanding of wetland ecology, hydrology and soil processes. Applicants should be highly motivated to learn, interact closely with team members and enjoy field work.

BACKGROUND CHECK: Colorado State University is committed to providing a safe and productive learning and living community. To achieve that goal, we conduct background investigations for all final candidates being considered for employment. Background checks may include, but are not limited to, criminal history, national sex offender search and motor vehicle history.

PAY RATE: $18.00 – $23.00/hour (40 hours/week). Crews generally work 8 10-hour days followed by six days off. Benefits for the position include Workers Compensation benefits and contribution to a retirement plan, but do not include medical, dental, vision and life insurance policies. Continuation of the position is dependent on the receipt of funding from the sponsor.