Physical Scientist/ Natural Resource Technician (NPS, Joshua Tree National Park)

The Research Associate Program at GBI, in cooperation with the National Park Service Joshua Tree National Park (JOTR), the Great Basin Institute is recruiting a Physical Scientist/Natural Resource Technician to support Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) projects and a monitoring program to study the effects of climate change on the hydrology and water resources of Joshua Tree National Park. The Research Associate (RA) will be responsible for implementing the on-the-ground monitoring protocols) and will work with the Physical Science Branch to collect and enter data into various databases. This program will focus on conditions and trends of park resources to improve scientific understanding of how the water resources of JOTR respond to the effects of climate change. The project will help create, promote, facilitate and/or improve the understanding of natural, cultural, historic, recreational, and other aspects of JOTR. The Technician will also assist in other activities including monitoring air quality, night skies, soundscapes, and view sheds in the Park, as well as mitigating AML issues within Joshua Tree National Park.

The RA will assist the research team as they manage volunteers through field work, data collection, data entry, and maintaining and establishing new volunteer-based programs. These programs are designed to provide visitors and community members with opportunities to participate in natural and cultural resource management activities. 

Timeline:

• Late April/ Early May, 24 week term
• Full time (40 hours/week)
• Schedule: Monday – Thursday, 10 hours daily.

Location:

Joshua Tree National Park encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in southern California. Joshua Tree National Park is a unique ecosystem, lying in the transition of the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert. Field conditions include hot, arid days with high exposure to the sun, as well as cold and windy winter weather. Resources of the region include threatened and/or endangered species habitat, big game habitats, abandoned mine lands, and historic and prehistoric cultural sites.

Compensation and Benefits:

Compensation: $23.50 hourly;

Benefits: 

• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance premiums;
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost;
• Personal leave and holidays;
• Access to Pro Deals;

Housing: 

• Will not be provided and the selected participant will be expected to procure housing on their own at Twentynine Palms, Joshua Tree or Yucca Valley.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, geology, hydrology, environmental studies/science or related discipline;
• Experience in performing field work, and applying methodological protocols for collecting field data;
• Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for data collection and navigation;
• Ability to read and navigate using topographic maps
• Willingness and ability to work, hike long distances carrying 40-50 pounds, and lift, carry and use equipment in harsh, variable desert conditions, including in extreme heat;
• Ability to operate and use mechanical equipment and power tools;
• Experience using ArcGIS software;
• Experience with groundwater monitoring techniques;
• Experience with air quality monitoring equipment;
• Experience in applying revegetation and other restoration techniques;
• Experience working with and supervising volunteers;

Preferred:

• Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally, with a diverse audience;
• Willingness to work a variable schedule, possibly including some weekends; and
• Valid, state-issued driver’s license and familiarity driving 4WD vehicles on unimproved roads.

Successful applicant must complete a Department of Interior (DOI) Background Investigation (BI) or submit paperwork to NPS 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. 

Public Land Corps Hiring Authority: 

This project is federally funded through the Public Land Corps Hiring Authority. Participants serving under this authority may be eligible for the PLC non-competitive hiring status and certificate. The PLC Authority requires all applicants meet the age and US Citizen requirements. Additional information regarding the PLC can be found on the GBI website under the Research Associate Programs FAQ.

NOTE:  This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the organization’s ongoing needs.

Disclaimer: Although the organization has attempted to accurately and thoroughly describe this position, GBI reserves the right to change the same, including to change, add to or subtract from the duties outlined, within the sole discretion of the organization, at any time, with or without advance notice.