Original posting: https://careers.nmsu.edu/jobs/program-specialist-sr-las-cruces-new-mexico-united-states-ffa7b7e2-4c83-4ce8-975f-180ef4c01ef9
The Jornada Basin Long-term Ecological Research program (JRN LTER), based in New Mexico State University (NMSU) in Las Cruces, New Mexico, is seeking a new member for its team of core-study field technicians. The JRN LTER field crew collects data for multiple long-term monitoring studies and ecology experiments in the Jornada Basin, located in the northern section of the Chihuahuan Desert. The team works in coordination with scientists, site managers, and information managers based at NMSU, the USDA-ARS Jornada Experimental Range, and other institutions. The Jornada LTER program places high value on its long-term data collection efforts, and is looking for field technicians with scientific data collection expertise and a commitment to the long-term goals of the program. Below are key parts of the NMSU job announcement, but if you have questions about the position please reach out to us at jornada.lter@nmsu.edu. Visit the NMSU website at the link provided to apply.
Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Three (3) years of professional experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:Demonstrated professional knowledge and operational expertise within designated area of program focus.; SKILLS:Program planning, development, implementation, and leadership skills. Skill in examining and evaluating operations and developing and/or re-engineering operating strategies, systems, and procedures. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse community.; ABILITIES:Ability to determine informational needs, to collect and analyze information, and to devise and develop statistical analyses and reports. Ability to develop and deliver both oral and written presentations. Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart information to a range of clientele and/or media sources. Ability to make administrative/procedural decisions and judgments. Ability to develop and implement funding strategies and programs.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
***THIS POSITION IS A ONE-YEAR APPOINTMENT; CONTINGENT UPON FUNDING***
The Long-Term Ecological Research Program requires a Program Specialist SR to help continue the productivity of its research projects by performing the following duties:
– Collects data related to plant ecology, aeolian studies, hydrology, animal ecology, soils, UAV operations, and wireless data acquisition/climatology.
– Sample processing, cleaning equipment, checking/entering data and maintaining appropriate documentation.
– Oversee LTER long term studies associated with vegetation measurements. Plans and implements associated projects in collaboration with researchers.
– Train staff on plant identification. Maintain herbarium voucher collection.
Preferred Qualifications
– Self-motivated, flexible, possess strong supervisory and organizational abilities.
– Enjoy working under desert field conditions with high heat and sun exposure.
– Work reliably both independently and as part of a team.
– Establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates and principle investigators.
– Be comfortable working safely with moderately hazardous materials.
– Communicate well both verbally and in writing.
– Be able to coordinate needs with other agencies/groups.
Ideally, the successful candidate will have significant field experience in plant identification, measurement methodologies, and use of dichotomous keys, experience working in a lab environment, field experience related to this LTER program, and demonstrated skills in training and directing work of assigned staff.
