Ecological Monitoring Crew Member in Las Cruces New Mexico

The Ecological Monitoring Crew Member position at Conservation Legacy in Las Cruces, NM involves conducting ecological monitoring, including vegetation and soil surveys. The role is full-time from September 30 to December 20, 2024, requiring camping in remote areas and teamwork. Candidates need relevant coursework in ecology or related fields and must be physically fit for demanding fieldwork. This position offers mentorship and involves data collection for land management.
About the position

The Ecological Monitoring Crew Member position with the Southwest Conservation Corps, in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management, is a full-time role based in Las Cruces, New Mexico. This position is focused on conducting ecological monitoring, specifically vegetation and soil surveys, using the Bureau of Land Management's Terrestrial Assessment, Inventory, & Monitoring (AIM) methodology. The program runs from September 30th to December 20th, 2024, and candidates must be available for the entire duration of the term. The weekly schedule includes hitches that vary between 8 days on/6 days off and 4 days on/3 days off, with camping in remote areas most nights. Office days will occur regularly, especially towards the end of the season. Crew members will work in teams of three, consisting of two crew members and one crew lead, to monitor land health on BLM lands, including National Monument lands and various ecological sites. Responsibilities include identifying vegetation to species, recording species cover and composition data, evaluating soil stability, and describing site conditions. The data collected will be georeferenced and entered into an ArcGIS database using ruggedized tablets, contributing to a publicly available dataset that informs land management decisions. The role requires a strong commitment to learning and adapting to fieldwork challenges, including navigating diverse ecosystems, hiking several miles daily, and camping for extended periods. Crew members will also be responsible for maintaining and cataloging botanical specimens, enhancing their knowledge of local flora, and fostering a positive crew culture. This position offers invaluable mentorship from BLM personnel and opportunities to engage in various public land management projects, including wildlife and forestry initiatives. Candidates should be prepared for a physically demanding role that requires adaptability, teamwork, and a passion for ecological conservation.

Responsibilities
• Conduct vegetation monitoring using BLM's AIM methodology.
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• Identify vegetation to species and record species cover and composition data.
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• Evaluate soil stability and describe site conditions and soil pits.
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• Georeference and enter data into an ArcGIS database using ruggedized tablets.
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• Maintain and catalog botanical specimens throughout the field season.
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• Assist with hitch preparation, planning, and crew transportation using work vehicles.
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• Navigate to designated plots and maintain equipment.
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• Participate in problem identification and resolution regarding safety issues.
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• Complete mid-term and end-of-term written evaluations for self-assessment and crew lead feedback.
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• Foster effective communication and feedback systems among crew members.

Requirements
• Minimum of 2 years of college coursework in ecology, botany, plant ecology, or related fields.
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• Familiarity with data collection and sound science principles.
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• Eligible to accept a 900-hour service term with Americorps.
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• U.S. Citizenship and valid driver's license with an insurable driving record.
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• Ability to pass background checks from Conservation Legacy and the Department of Interior.
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• Capable of standing and walking at least 6 miles/day on rough terrain and lifting/carrying items up to 40 pounds.
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• Experience with Microsoft Suite Software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or other data-collection software.
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• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience identifying plants to species in the field or from photos.
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• Familiarity with New Mexico or Colorado flora.
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• Experience working in regions with high floristic diversity.
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• Knowledge of taxonomic soil keys or experience digging soil pits.
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• Experience working or recreating in rangeland or desert systems.

Benefits
• Living allowance of $600-$640/week based on experience.
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• Housing allowance of $140/week, potentially lower if agency-subsidized housing is secured.
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• AmeriCorps Education Award of $1,824.07.
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• $18+/day food allowance while camping in the field.
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• Supplemental development opportunities and funds available throughout the term.