Mood: sharp
Topic: Out in the Field
NEWS RELEASE
The Center for North American Herpetology
Lawrence, Kansas
http://www.cnah.org
24 February 2009
Title: Biological Science Technician
US Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, San Diego Field Station
http://www.werc.usgs.gov/
Locations: San Diego, California and Irvine, California
Five full-time, temporary positions (1 Irvine & 4 San Diego)
GS-0404-5/7
DESCRIPTION: This is a unique opportunity to conduct research on amphibians, reptiles,
fish, small mammals, and terrestrial invertebrates in southern California.
The technician will be a part of a science team conducting research on amphibians, turtles,
reptiles, fish, small mammals, and terrestrial invertebrate species within National Forests,
State Parks, Reserves, and US Military Lands in southern California. Data collection is for
the purpose of understanding diversity, population densities, growth rates, temporal
activity patterns, exotic invasions, genetic relationships at the community and species
level, and the conservation of endangered species.
Field work includes conducting biological wildlife surveys using various methods such as
visual surveys, pitfall trapping, seining, minnow traps, and Sherman traps. The technician
will identify, catch, measure, and mark animals, as well as collect water quality and
environmental data. Previous field experience or general knowledge of amphibians,
turtles, reptiles, small mammals, fish, and terrestrial invertebrate species of southern
California is highly recommended.
The field work is often conducted in densely vegetated terrain under adverse
environmental conditions (extreme temperatures, rain, and poison oak.) The position
sometimes requires long hours in the field working days and nights, hiking, and carrying
heavy equipment. Some overnight travel may be necessary. A current valid driver’s
license is required, as driving 4WD vehicles is often necessary.
Deadline is 27 February 2009. Please apply for the position through the website at
and search under position numbers:
Biological Science Technician (Wildlife)
GS-0404-5/7
Temp/Full Time
WR-2009-0227 (San Diego)
WR-2009-0226 (Irvine)
For more information contact:
Adam Backlin
US Geological Survey, San Diego Field Station
4727 Portola Parkway, Bldg C
Irvine, CA 92620
(714) 508-4702
abacklin@usgs.gov