Summer Field Technologist - Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute

Overview

Organization Description: Alberta Innovates - Technology Futures is part of Alberta's research and innovation system and is helping build healthy, sustainable businesses in the province. Through a suite of programs and services for entrepreneurs, companies, researchers and investors, Tech Futures is a one-stop shop that provides technical services and funding support to facilitate the commercialization of technologies, to develop new-knowledge based industry clusters and to establish an entrepreneurial-based culture in Alberta. The Environment and Carbon Management Division works with industry and government to develop, test and deploy new technologies and process that will help build commerce in Alberta while reducing environmental impacts. Ecosystems Management develops methods to balance industrial development and ecosystems health. ECM works collaboratively with Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring institute (ABMI), an arms-length, value-neutral, scientific organization that measures and reports on the health of Alberta's Biodiversity. The ABMI conducts world-class biodiversity monitoring of more than 2000 species and habitats throughout Alberta. Job Description: We seek qualified summer field technologists for our Wildlife Ecology Group to survey terrestrial and/or aquatic biodiversity indicators. Duties include field data collection (forest stand, soil, birds, plants, wetlands, etc.); sorting and identifying collected specimens (moss, lichen, and invertebrates). Work is done in groups of two throughout Alberta, sometimes up to 500 m from a partner, often in bear country. Data collection can be physically demanding, weather uncooperative, wildlife encounters likely, and insects persistent. Field conditions will vary according to geographic location (field technologists will be assigned to Northern, Remote and/or Southern sites). Food, accommodation, and transportation in the field are supplied. All technical training and many certifications are provided.

Experience and Qualifications

The ideal candidates will possess or be working toward a degree or diploma in biology, natural resources, forestry or a related field. The successful candidates must have the ability to endure early mornings, long days, challenging conditions, and rigorous fieldwork while collecting high quality data. Preference will be given to candidates with GPS, compass, 4X4, ATV, and aerial images experience. Skills in boreal, grassland, or aquatic plant identification are assets. A valid driver's license, excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills and a sense of humour are essential. Relevant field work experience preferred. Candidates must be eligible to work in Canada. These are temporary 4-month positions (May 1 - August 31, 2013), and are included in the bargaining unit. The monthly salary range is $2200 to $2650 depending on experience and specific demands of position. Food, accommodation and transportation in the field are provided.