NEON - Senior Field Ecologist - Mammalogy - AZ

Battelle delivers when others can’t. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients—whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a continental-scale observation facility funded by the National Science Foundation and operated by Battelle. The NEON program is designed to collect long-term, open access ecological data to better understand how U.S. ecosystems are changing, from freshwater systems such as streams, rivers, and lakes to terrestrial systems spanning tropical forests to deserts to tundra (neon science.org).

We depend on our people to collect observational data and samples, to monitor automated instrumented systems that collect terrestrial and aquatic data, and to operate our airborne observation platform that captures remote sensing data of regional landscapes and vegetation.

We are currently seeking a Senior Field Ecologist-Mammalogy. This position is in Tucson, AZ.

The Field Ecologist is a biological sampling lead performing seasonal and periodic sampling activities and sample processing and will be the technical lead for performing small mammal abundance and diversity protocols. The Field Ecologist will provide training and guidance to temporary field crews while working in the field and laboratory. The Senior Field Ecologist has additional roles and responsibilities assisting the Field Operations Manager with management of the Domain, hiring and training seasonal field staff, and acting as manager in the absence of the Field Operations Manager.

Strong consideration will be given to internal applicants whose current work location is at the Domain office, specifically working in limnology or instrumentation. Mammalogy experience will be strongly preferred for those outside of the Domain.

From the iconic saguaro cactus stands of the Sonoran to the mesquite scrublands of the Chihuahuan, the Desert Southwest (Domain 14) offers a diverse range of desert and mountainous landscapes to explore. Data from the NEON field sites will help scientists better understand the impact of human disturbances and climate change on these unique and fragile arid ecosystems. NEON sites in the Desert Southwest Domain are managed from our Tucson, AZ office.

The work involves walking, hiking, prolonged standing, bending, and kneeling. Heavy items, equipment and packs up to 40 pounds must be lifted and carried on a routine basis. Field work includes exposure to extreme temperatures, inclement weather, rough and variable terrain, toxic plants (e.g., poison ivy, hogweed), stinging and biting insects, and wildlife hazards. Instrument maintenance involves performing work on instrument towers ranging in height from 24 feet to 300 feet, which includes ascending and descending multiple flights of stairs.

Driving off-road in 4WD vehicles is required for most field sites.

Work schedules are typically 8-10 hours per day but can occasionally be 12+ hours per day, including split shifts (off in the middle of the day), starting before dawn and/or ending after dusk, and weekends depending on the work assignment. The ratio of field to lab work is about 75% field and 25% office and lab duties. Frequent overnight travel (e.g., semi-monthly for 3-4 nights) is required.

• Plan, schedule, supervise and perform abundance, diversity, and phenology of organisms including small mammals, ticks, mosquitoes, ground beetles, and soil microbes data collection following established, standardized field, lab, and shipping procedures.
• Record data accurately and completely; perform data Q/C checks and resolve errors in collaboration with staff scientists.
• Provide training, instruction, and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel.
• Perform additional field and lab procedures as…