Field Ecologist

Eastern Research Group, Inc. is hiring Field Ecologists for ecological monitoring with the Bureau of Land Management in Arizona, Utah, and Wyoming. The role includes vegetation sampling, data collection, and camping on remote lands. Candidates need a B.S. in a natural science field, field experience, and physical capability for outdoor work. The position offers competitive pay, per diem for camping, and benefits including medical insurance.
About the position

PG Environmental, a division of ERG, is seeking highly motivated Field Ecologists to support ecological monitoring work with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) during the 2024 field season. The role involves assessing the health of BLM lands across Arizona, Utah, and Wyoming using established field protocols. Crews will consist of a crew lead and two technicians, who will conduct vegetation identification, gather data, and assist with various public land management projects. The position requires a commitment to fieldwork, including camping and hiking in remote areas, and offers opportunities for professional development in ecology and environmental science.

Responsibilities
• Conduct field work consisting of vegetation sampling, plant identification, and soil classification at various sites.
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• Participate in pre- and post-hitch activities, including hitch planning and logistics, plot tracking, data submission, and reporting.
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• Drive and navigate to remote sites in a 4WD vehicle, often on unpaved roads for extended periods.
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• Camp for up to eight days at a time on remote BLM land, adhering to field safety and Leave No Trace principles.
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• Hike on rough terrain, carrying sampling gear weighing up to 40 lbs.

Requirements
• B.S. or working toward a degree in a natural science field.
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• Field experience in adverse weather conditions for extended periods.
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• Ability to work multiple days car-camping in remote areas.
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• Physical capability to stand, walk, bend, and lift/carry items up to 40 pounds.
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• Excellent communication skills and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
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• Valid US driver's license and insurable driving record.
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• Ability to pass background checks.

Nice-to-haves
• Bachelor's degree in ecology, botany, soil science, or related field.
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• Current or ability to obtain CPR, First Aid, and Wilderness First Aid certifications.
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• At least one year of experience using taxonomic keys to identify plants in the field.
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• Familiarity with flora of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming.
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• Experience digging soil pits and characterizing soil horizons.
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• Crew Leads should have experience managing field crews.

Benefits
• $24/hour for Crew Leads and $20/hour for Technicians, with overtime paid at time and a half.
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• $30 camping per diem for every night camped in the field.
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• $15 Meals and Incidental (M&IE) per diem while in the field.
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• Medical insurance offered and accrued sick leave after four months of employment.