AmeriCorps Ecological Monitoring Technician (BLM, Rock Springs)

The Research Associate Program at GBI, in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management in Rock Springs, Wyoming, is recruiting one (1) AmeriCorps volunteer to serve as an Ecological Monitoring Technician. The AmeriCorps Volunteer will conduct field-based assessments of riparian, wetland, and sage-grouse habitats to support large-scale habitat prioritization and ecosystem health initiatives (training will be provided). Responsibilities include revisiting established monitoring locations, evaluating previously unassessed sites, collecting and analyzing ecological data, assessing riparian and hydrologic conditions, and identifying opportunities for low-tech habitat optimization projects. Work is performed both independently and alongside BLM staff and requires a strong understanding of hydrology, botany, and ecological processes. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Conduct riparian, wetland, and sage-grouse habitat monitoring at established and new field sites across remote landscapes;
• Collect GPS, photo point, vegetation, wildlife, soil, and hydrologic data using standardized monitoring protocols;
• Assess habitat condition, riparian health, and ecological site characteristics to support habitat evaluations and on-the-ground habitat work planning;
• Identify vegetation communities, plant species, and soils to inform ecological assessments and land management decisions;
• Assist with habitat ratings, data analysis, and report preparation for sage-grouse and ecosystem optimization projects;
• Collaborate with BLM staff and field crews while independently completing field surveys and monitoring assignments; and
• Hike long distances over uneven terrain to complete monitoring transects and collect field data.

Timeline:

• Start Date: As soon as possible, 20 wks;
• Full time (40 hours/week); and
• Schedule: Typically 8 hrs/day, 5 days/week, but flexible depending on field conditions.

Location:

Rock Springs, Wyoming is located in Sweetwater County in southwestern Wyoming and serves as the primary service hub for the surrounding region. The area is characterized by high-desert sagebrush landscapes, wide-open spaces, and access to extensive public lands with numerous recreation opportunities. Personnel can expect warm, dry summers, cold winters, frequent winds, and rapidly changing weather conditions. Rock Springs offers reliable access to grocery stores, restaurants, medical services, lodging, Wi-Fi, and other amenities, though cellular service may be limited in remote field locations. 

Compensation and Benefits:

Living Allowance:  $1,320 biweekly (before taxes); not to exceed $13,200;

Segal AmeriCorps education Award (675 hr): $2817 upon successful completion of term;

Benefits: 

• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance;
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost;
• Access to Pro Deals;
• Eligibility for SNAP benefits, Loan Forbearance, and Loan Interest Accrual Repayment;

 Housing: Will be provided to the selected participant at no additional costs.

Segal Education Award:

After successfully completing an AmeriCorps term of service members are eligible to receive the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. Award varies based on term of service. You can use the award to repay qualified student loans and to pay current educational expenses at eligible institutions of higher education and training programs.

Student Loan Forbearance:

If you are currently paying on any federal student loans you have the option to put those loans into forbearance during your time as an AmeriCorps volunteer, that will allow you to cease payments while serving.

Interest Accrual Repayment:

As an AmeriCorps alum, you are eligible to have the National Service Trust pay all or a portion of the interest that accumulated on your qualified student loan(s) during your term of service. These payments are made in addition to the Education Award, and are not deducted from your Education Award balance. To be eligible to have accrued interest paid: The loan must have been placed in forbearance for the service period, and you must have successfully completed a term of service and received an Education Award.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Eligibility:

AmeriCorps Volunteers are eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Qualifications:

Required:

(This AmeriCorps position is open to US Citizens, Nationals, or Permanent Residents age 17 or older)

• Driving: Must provide a valid driver’s license and possess a clean driving record;
• Successful applicants must complete a Department of Interior (DOI) Background Investigation (BI) or submit paperwork to the Bureau of Land Management human resources indicating an active and fully adjudicated BI has already been completed prior to beginning position. If you already have a fully adjudicated BI, please let us know in your Application; and
• AmeriCorps eligibility requirements: (1) U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status, (2) eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limited to earning equivalent of two full-time education awards), (3) pass National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) name search and federal criminal background check, (4) adhere to the rules, regulations and code of conduct as specified in the Member Service Agreement; and (5) not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement.

Strongly Preferred:

• experience conducting ecological field surveys, habitat assessments, or natural resource monitoring in remote and rugged environments;
• Knowledge of riparian, wetland, rangeland, and/or sagebrush ecosystem ecology, including habitat condition assessment techniques;
• Experience identifying native and invasive plant species, vegetation communities, and ecological site characteristics;
• Familiarity with hydrologic processes, riparian health assessments, stream function, or wetland monitoring methods;
• Experience collecting, managing, and quality-checking field data using GPS units, mobile data collection platforms, and standardized monitoring protocols;
• Ability to hike long distances over uneven terrain while carrying field equipment and working in variable weather conditions; and
• Experience working independently in the field and collaboratively as part of an interdisciplinary team.