Overview

The Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is federally listed as a threatened species north and west of the Colorado River under the Endangered Species Act.  Desert tortoise monitoring will assist researchers in estimating population density. Monitoring occurs during March, April and May to coincide with the peak activity season of desert tortoises.

Three (3) AmeriCorps telemetry monitors will be required to demonstrate proficiency in telemetry and tracking as well as backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, and use of GPS, topographic maps, and electronic data collection technology.  In addition, telemetry monitors will be field tested on their knowledge of and ability to follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely. Telemetry monitors will have the sole responsibility of gathering daily location data on focal desert tortoises that serve as controls for the project.  The telemetry monitor will work for 5 consecutive days with 2 days off, but they must be available to work any of the 7 days each week, with the understanding that the schedule is subject change with little or no notice. Field camping will be required. This position will require long hours including early mornings and may include weekends.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field;
• Experience with telemetry equipment and tracking;
• Experience collecting field data or following established field data collection protocols;
• Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for navigation and/or data collection;
• Knowledge of southwestern/Mojave flora and fauna desirable;
• Self-motivated with ability to maintain a positive attitude while working in a diverse team environment;
• Ability to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice;
• Ability to walk a minimum of 10km/day in challenging terrain and harsh and rapidly changing desert conditions, and otherwise be in good physical condition;
• Willingness to camp in the desert backcountry for consecutive days;
• Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license;
• Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road if required;
• Meet AmeriCorps eligibility requirements:
  • U.S. citizenship or legal resident alien status,
  • eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime or the equivalent of two full-time education awards), and
  • pass National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) and federal criminal background checks,
  • Adhere to the rules, regulations and code of conduct as specified in the Member Service Agreement; and
  • Will not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the Member Service Agreement.