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Open: October 23, 2026 — Closes: October 30, 2026
Summary
You will serve as a Ecologist (Temporary) the NPS Sierra Nevada Inventory & Monitoring Network. This is a temporary position expected to last up to 1 year, and may be extended up to a maximum of two years based on agency needs and potential funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty: February 2027. Open to the first 40 applicants or until 10/30/2026 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration.
Major Duties
Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: Conducts vegetation (high elevation forest) plot sampling in remote wilderness areas. Collects and organizes field data, ensuring quality control of data or collected samples. Manages and analyses data using spreadsheet, database, statistical, and GIS software. Implements field research and monitoring tasks associated with forest ecology and/or vegetation management. Work is in arduous conditions (heat, steep slopes, uneven footing, plant and insect pests, poisonous snakes, conducting traffic control, elevations up to 10,000 ft.) Assists in the preparation of reports, plans, and guidelines related to forest monitoring and research projects. Provides logistical support for inventory and monitoring projects as well as advice, assistance, and training to students, volunteers or lower graded technicians. This position requires regular and recurring work and camping in rugged mountainous backcountry above 7,000 feet elevation for extended periods of time. Selectee must be able to hike by foot in the backcountry at high altitude for extended periods of time while carrying backpacks, tools and supplies of at least 50 lbs, and be able to camp for several days at a time. Physical Demands: The position may require strenuous physical activity including periods of standing, walking, climbing, and lifting and carrying of heavy objects. Some activities will occur in physically dangerous areas or settings. Documentary research and report writing work is sedentary, which entails the ability to concentrate and write for long periods of time. Working Conditions: Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in all types of weather. Assignments may be performed in potentially hazardous areas including steep rocky terrain, arctic environments, and forests. Flying in fixed and rotary wing aircraft is possible.
