Seasonal Field Technician - Botanical Surveys

The main objective of this position is to conduct botanical surveys across assigned forested stands (~2,506 acres out of 4,000 remaining) within the Department of Energy’s Savannah River Site (SRS) in Aiken and Barnwell Counties, South Carolina to locate and document Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TES) plant species and Non-native Invasive Species (NNIS) plant populations. Survey work will include systematic walking transects spaced 200 feet apart and focused surveys in suitable or known habitat to identify plant populations within the survey boundaries and document the extent of each population in support of the SRS timber management program. While surveying, GPS track logs will be recorded to ensure that the methods are appropriate and thorough.

The technician must be able to identify the listed plants, have experience and training with taxonomic keys, and formal education related to botanical identification. Much of this work requires field orientation, long hours, navigating diverse and difficult terrain, working independently in remote areas, significant travel, plant identification, operating a GPS, exceptional organization and note taking while in the field, and the ability to carry up to one gallon of water and field equipment for up to 10 hours a day in extreme temperatures. All activities must be conducted by methods in compliance with the MTM Standard Operating Procedures and the Employee Handbook. MTM will provide pertinent training, protocols, survey equipment (if needed), and safety gear (e.g., radio, first-aid kit, etc.) to technicians. Technicians will be required to comply with SRS security and safety requirements including obtaining a photo ID badge issued by the SRS prior to conducting fieldwork. MTM will assist with this process prior to the start of fieldwork.

Responsibilities

• Conduct botanical surveys in accordance with established protocols and project guidelines.

• Identify and document plant species, including rare and NNIS plants, using field guides and taxonomic keys.

• Assess vegetation communities and habitat conditions, recording data on plant abundance, density, and health where applicable.

• Collect and analyze field data, including GPS coordinates, photographs, and detailed field notes, as well as utilization of Field Maps, Avenza, and/or GaiaGPS.

• Collaborate with team members to ensure accurate and efficient data collection and reporting.

• Adhere to safety protocols and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

• Accurately record and document field data, ensuring precision and attention to detail, following survey protocols.

• Submit data (photos, GPS, and GIS data, etc.) and timesheets to project lead on a timely basis, as requested.

• Maintain and troubleshoot field equipment, including optics, GPS devices, cameras, personal computer/tablet, cell phones, and radios.

• Hike long distances off trail in challenging terrain up to 10 hours per day, often in hot temperatures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (or seeking) in Biology, Botany, Ecology, or a related field.

• Basic understanding in plant identification, including familiarity with flora in the Southeastern Coastal Plain, or the ability to learn quickly.

• Previous experience conducting botanical surveys is preferred, but a basic understanding of plants and survey methods is acceptable.

• Proficiency in using taxonomic keys, field guides, and other botanical resources, or the ability to learn.

• Ability to work independently in remote locations, often under adverse weather conditions (heat) and challenging environments (tick and mosquito-infested habitats, thick vegetation, etc.).

• Field skills for navigating, surveying, and mapping landscapes and features, including an understanding of basic map-reading, compass use, basic knowledge and understanding of GIS, GPS, and hand-held devices.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in data collection and reporting.

• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.

• Ability to work well in a team and collaborate with other professionals.

• PC competence and fundamental computer programs (Word, Excel).

• Practical problem-solving and organizational skills with attention to detail for record keeping.

• Ability to hike and perform physical activities such as kneeling, bending, prolonged standing, and carrying a pack up to 40 lbs.

• Comfortable working in inclement weather, extreme temperatures, rough and variable terrain, toxic plants, stinging and biting insects, and wildlife hazards.

• Comfortable working in remote locations with limited cellular or internet access.

Applicants must possess the following items for fieldwork:

• Camping gear and field gear (tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag or blankets, pillow, field clothes, change of clothes after fieldwork, durable and comfortable hiking shoes/boots, muck boots (optional), rain jacket, sun hat, food for a week (grocery store in nearby town), backpack, water bottles, phone, phone charger, power bank, etc.).

• Working smart phone or tablet for data entry.

• A vehicle to travel to the meeting location. Carpooling will be an option once on site. AWD/4WD is preferred but not required.