Field Research Assistant - 135069

We are seeking three field technicians to work on the ongoing Argentine ant eradication program on San Clemente Island (SCI), a Naval installation on the southernmost of California's Channel Islands, from May to October 2025.

All fieldwork will be conducted on SCI, which is owned and operated by the US Navy. The island is home to a large number of endemic and rare plant, animal, and bird species, with an extensive community of biologists, archaeologists, and researchers. The incumbents will collaborate frequently with other crew members, members of the Natural Resources Office (NRO), and Navy members.

The incumbent will work under the supervision of the PI and report directly to the Lead Field Researcher to assist with measuring the efficacy and conservation gains of Argentine ant eradication and implement eradication protocols in wildland areas. Daily fieldwork will include mapping the boundaries of Argentine ant infestations, hand and helicopter treating infestations, and conducting post-treatment monitoring. This position involves strenuous fieldwork that includes hiking rugged cactus and canyon terrain while mapping and treating Argentine ant infestations. Technicians will receive training in operating forklifts to perform helicopter-assisted treatments. Technicians will gain valuable experience with fieldwork, ant survey methods, and invasive species ecology while working and living on the biologically and topographically diverse San Clemente Island.

~Room and basic board will be provided while on San Clemente Island.

~Transportation via plane from Naval Air Station North Island Coronado to SCI will be provided.

~The work schedule will be 5 days on island and 2 days off, mainly working Thursday to Monday.

~This will be a 6-month limited position at 100% time, 40 hours a week, with the possibility of extension based on project and department needs.

~Portions of this project that do not require being on the island can be completed on the mainland.

~Training can be completed at the start of the field season.

• Graduation from high school or a GED and two years of laboratory experience or two years of college-level coursework including courses in biology or ecology, or equivalent combination of education and experience.Familiarity with identifying arthropods

• Experience with social insects in both laboratory and field settings.

• Ability to safely operate and maintain mechanical equipment, hand tools, herbicide/pesticide application equipment, and GPS units.

• Knowledge of and experience in general lab protocols.

• Skill in the use of standard laboratory equipment.

• Experience using computers as well as spreadsheet and word processing software such as Word and Excel.

• Knowledge of basic laboratory safety requirements and procedures, and ability to maintain up-to-date safety training certification.

• Basic knowledge of chemical regulations for safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals.

• Skill in maintaining clear and concise records with strict attention to detail. Ability to carefully follow oral and written instructions.

• Some knowledge of local customs and operations at field / remote sites. Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with faculty, academics, students, military, and civilian personnel of a variety of backgrounds.

• Ability to develop and maintain strategic relationships and partnerships with remote research partners. Ability to collaborate with multiple agencies to fulfill contractual duties.

• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.

• Familiarity with basic microbiological and sterile techniques

• Basic knowledge of ecological issues surrounding invasion ecology and island biogeography.

• The position is required to possess a forklift certification. Certification is not required at the time of application, must be obtained within 6 months of hire.

• Ability to operate a 4-wheel drive vehicle, forklifts, and All terrain vehicles (ATV)

• Ability to navigate through steep, rough, and densely vegetated terrain

• Ability to travel via a small plane; live and work in a remote island.

• Ability to effectively exhibit flexibility due to flight cancellations.

• The position works with hazardous materials, including pesticides, in proximity to munitions, audible bombing drills, and to a helicopter.

• Background check required.

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

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