Field Research Assistant - 121547
Job Description
#121547 Field Research Assistant
Extended Deadline: Fri 4/7/2023UC San Diego values equity, diversity, and inclusion. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.
For the safety and well-being of the entire university community, the University of California requires, with few exceptions, that all students, faculty and staff be vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus and influenza before they will be allowed on campus or in a facility or office. For more information visit: Flu Vaccine Mandate / COVID Vaccine Policy
Job posting will remain open until a suitable candidate has been identified.
This is a 100% Limited position for 6 months. This appointment may be extended or converted to career status based on the needs of the department.
DESCRIPTION
The School of Biological Sciences is comprised of four academic departments, (Cell and Developmental Biology, Ecology Behavior and Evolution, Molecular Biology, and Neurobiology) which reflect broad foci in faculty research and in the academic programs offered by the School. Each department is headed by a Chair who works individually to represent their section, and works collaboratively as a member of the School's Council of Chairs (COC) on those school concerns which cross the boundaries of section governance. The School has over 100 faculty FTE and approximately 5000 undergraduate students in 8 majors, with annual enrollments of approximately 30,000.
To learn more about this vibrant center of scientific discovery refer to the school’s webpage at www.biology.ucsd.edu.
Under close supervision, assist with field work the on-going Argentine ant eradication program on San Clemente Island (SCI), a Naval installation on the southern-most of California's Channel Islands.
The incumbent will work under supervision of the PI and receive work direction from the Lead Field Researcher to assist with measuring the efficacy and conservation gains of Argentine ant eradication and implement eradication protocols in wild land areas. Duties include mapping the boundaries of Argentine ant infestations, preparing pesticide baits for deployment, hand treating infestations, coordinating helicopter-assisted treatments, and conducting post-treatment monitoring. This position involves strenuous fieldwork that includes hiking rugged terrain while mapping and treating Argentine ant infestations.
All field work will be conducted on SCI, which is owned and operated by the U.S. Navy as a test and evaluation site, shore bombardment range, and warfare training grounds. The island is home to a large number of endemic and rare plant, animal and bird species, with an extensive community of biologists, archaeologists and researchers. Incumbent will collaborate frequently with other lab members, members of the U.S. Navy, and other members of the SCI field station teams.
This will be a 6 month limited position at 100% time, with possibility of extension based on project and department needs.
Transportation to and from the island via the Coronado Naval Base is provided. Portions of this project that do not require being on the island can be completed on the mainland.
Pesticide applicators certification from California may be required for this position. Training can be completed at the start of the field season.
- Must be willing to live and work on a remote island.
- Must be willing to travel back and forth from field location to UCSD as needed.
- Must be willing to work in proximity to a helicopter.
Room and board will be provided while on San Clemente Island. Work schedule will be 5 days on-island and 2 days off-island. Schedule may change based on needs of project.
QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from high school or a GED and two (2) years of laboratory experience or two years of college-level coursework including courses in biology or ecology, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Familiarity with identifying arthropods.
Experience with social insects in both laboratory and field settings.
Ability to safely operate and maintain mechanical equipment, hand tools, herbicide/pesticide application equipment, and GPS units.
Knowledge of and experience in general lab protocols. Skill in the use of standard laboratory equipment.
Knowledge of basic laboratory safety requirements and procedures, and ability to maintain up-to-date safety training certification.
Basic knowledge of chemical regulations for safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals.
Skill in maintaining clear and concise records with strict attention to detail. Ability to carefully follow oral and written instructions.
Some knowledge of local customs and operations at field / remote sites. Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with faculty, academics, students, military, and civilian personnel of a variety of backgrounds.
Experience using computers as well as spreadsheet and word processing software such as Word and Excel.
Ability to develop and maintain strategic relationships and partnerships with remote research partners. Ability to collaborate with multiple agencies to fulfill contractual duties.
Familiarity with basic microbiological and sterile techniques
Basic knowledge of ecological issues surrounding invasion ecology and island biogeography.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
Must be willing to work with hazardous materials, including pesticides.
Must be willing and able to lift loads of up to 50 lbs throughout the workday.
Must be willing and able to operate 4-wheel-drive vehicles.
Pay Transparency Act
Annual Full Pay Range: $43,159 - $50,738 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)
Hourly Equivalent: $20.67 - $24.30
Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).
Job offer is contingent on successful engagement in the UC COVID-19 Vaccination program (fully vaccinated with documented proof or approved exception/deferral).
To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://www-hr.ucsd.edu/saa/nondiscr.html
UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.
Application Instructions
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