Butterfly Atlas Field Technician

Organizational Background

The Vermont Center for Ecostudies (VCE) is a preeminent conservation organization in New England that strives to advance the conservation of wildlife and their habitats through research, monitoring, and community engagement. Our biologists investigate the intricate networks of ecological relationships across many scales from mercury pollution in songbirds to the migratory ecology of insects. VCE is located along the Connecticut River in the vibrant community of Hartford, Vermont. Our staff is committed to creating a compassionate and inclusive workplace culture that values the physical and emotional well-being of all employees. 

position Summary

VCE seeks to hire a seasonal field technician to complete butterfly surveys for the Second Vermont Butterfly Atlas. This is an approximately 14-week position that is expected to run from mid-May through August. This position will be focused on conducting butterfly surveys on priority survey blocks   located across Vermont. Field work will involve selecting sites on priority survey blocks to complete butterfly checklist surveys and input the data into our e-Butterfly.org project (see our project at https://www.e-butterfly.org/ebapp/en/projects/view/22). The field technician will work with the butterfly atlas project team. 

Responsibilities

Butterfly checklist surveys (80%), data entry and field logistics (20%).

Minimum Qualifications

• Educational background in wildlife biology, ecology, or a related field.
• Excellent butterfly identification skills, or proven ability to learn quickly.
• experience with insect surveys and other biology field work.
• Valid driver’s license and safe driving history.
• Must be willing to work long hours in a variety of conditions including hot weather and buggy conditions.
• Must be comfortable camping independently.
• Must be comfortable working independently and be able to follow all Atlas protocols.
• Must be comfortable navigating by GPS and driving long hours in rural settings.
• Must be self-motivated and have good communication skills.

Successful candidates must possess strong field biology skills, as well as a desire and enthusiasm for contributing to active and rugged fieldwork. Candidates should have experience working independently and demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively with a remote team. This position requires early mornings, flexible schedules, and fieldwork in challenging conditions.

Compensation

$19-21/hour depending on experience. Seasonal, nonexempt. The work schedule will require flexibility in the event of inclement weather but will be no more than 40 hours/week, from mid-May through August, with start and end dates flexible and negotiable for the right candidate. Occasional stays at campgrounds required for some field work. A personal vehicle is necessary and mileage reimbursement is provided at the federal rate for required travel.