Position Summary(Basic Job Function)
:
In alignment with the mission, programs and initiatives of MSU Extension, delivers research-based information to program participants through various methods and/or provides support and coordination of MSU Extension programs.
Unit Position Summary
Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive organization, which requires all staff to contribute towards a vision for success. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to our work, regardless of title or position within the organization. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following:
- We work together to ensure that programming is delivered to diverse audiences, produces equitable impacts for all participants, and demonstrates partnership and inclusion for all groups.
- We embrace that it is everyone’s job to create a culture that promotes diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
- We ensure that every team member is prepared with the skills and resources to contribute to our welcoming and inclusive culture.
- We foster inclusion by recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives, skills, experiences, and work to create equal access to programming for communities.
- We commit to continuous learning for diversity, equity, and cultural competency, in order to achieve inclusive excellence.
- We understand that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential elements to our work and are vital to the organizational culture and programmatic success of MSU Extension.
- We embrace a culture of understanding, coaching and feedback towards achieving a vision of success for the entire organization and its staff.
- Together we will achieve success and we commit to these goals in our work, continued education, and ongoing efforts.
Position Summary:
Up to 10 field technicians will be hired to conduct field work in support of various MNFI research, monitoring, and inventory projects. Working closely with the principal investigators, technicians will plan field activities, conduct surveys, and ensure accurate data collection.
Position Term: Approximately April 2024 – late July/August 2024, depending on position/project; possible extension into September pending available funding.
Work over some holidays and/or weekends will be required.
Characteristic Duties/Responsibilities:
Duties will include evaluating potential sampling sites; conducting surveys for rare animal species; handling, measuring, and marking animals; collecting blood and/or tissue samples; sampling vegetation and habitat characteristics; cleaning and maintaining equipment; processing specimens; and entering and compiling data in the field/office. Positions will focus primarily on surveys for rare amphibians and reptiles, with target group/species depending on position and projects, but will include surveys for Blanding’s turtles, spotted turtles, wood turtles, eastern massasaugas, and/or other herp species of conservation concern. Some positions also will include assisting with surveys for rare butterfly and mussel species. Field sampling will regularly require long hours and flexible work schedules under adverse working conditions (e.g., hot and humid weather, long and difficult hikes in wetlands, and biting insects).
Desired Qualifications
- Familiarity with Michigan and/or Midwestern ecosystems;
- Experience conducting reptile and amphibian surveys including handling and marking live animals;
- Experience conducting butterfly and/or freshwater mussel surveys;
- Ability to identify common Michigan plant species;
- Ability to navigate in the field via map, compass, and GPS;
- Comfortable using watercrafts (kayaks, canoes, small boats) if needed;
- Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to learn;
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in remote areas;
- Ability to adapt and problem solve;
- Understanding of and ability to implement Civil Rights principles and compliance standards.
- Ability to lift and carry educational materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs.
- Effective oral and written communication skills.
- Travel in local and surrounding communities and occasional long-distance travel are required as a regular part of this position.
- Proficiency in use of technology (e.g., web research, Zoom, Qualtrics, Microsoft Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook for mail/calendaring, distance technology, etc.).
- Other skills and/or physical abilities required to perform duties of the position.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Application Materials
Resume, Cover Letter, 3 Professional References
Work Hours
Field sampling will regularly require long hours and flexible work schedules under adverse working conditions (e.g., hot and humid weather, long and difficult hikes in wetlands, and biting insects).
