San Clemente Island Lead Field Researcher - 135342

We are seeking a Lead Field Researcher to manage the ongoing Argentine Ant Eradication program on San Clemente Island (SCI), a Naval Installation on the southernmost of California's Channel Islands, from June 2025 to March 2026.

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 undergo training from previous Lead Field Researcher and work under indirect supervision of the Principle Investigator to lead a team of three technicians 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, coordinating helicopter-assisted pesticide treatments, 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. Lead will receive training in operating forklifts alongside technicians to perform helicopter-assisted treatments. They will gain valuable experience with managing a large-scale conservation oriented project, 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 for the duration of the field season, June to October.

~ Remote work including writing an end of season report and organizing next season will occur from November to March.

~ This is a Contract position at 100% time, 40 hours a week, with the possibility of extension based on project and department needs.

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

• Theoretical and practical knowledge of ecology, including relevant laboratory techniques acquired through a Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.

• Working knowledge of research discipline, principles, concepts, analysis and / or operations being conducted at field / remote sites. Demonstrated experience performing GIS and statistical analyses, managing biological and geographical data, and writing monthly and annual reports of tasks completed.

• Working knowledge of safety, legal, cultural and regulatory requirements relative to field research responsibility. Demonstrated experience with basic microbiological and sterile techniques

• Emphasis on prioritizing team safety when navigating challenging situations or terrain when conducting fieldwork

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

• Demonstrates ability to work with a team, and to meet deadlines with minimal supervision. Excellent interpersonal skills to interact effectively with faculty, academics, students, military, and civilian personnel of a variety of backgrounds. Experience providing work direction to a team.

• Demonstrated communication skills with project team members. . Demonstrated successful, positive interpersonal, oral and written communication skills using tact, diplomacy and flexibility with diverse personalities and situations.

• Proficient research and analytical skills. Familiarity with statistical tests for variety of data types, e.g. ecological and molecular data.

• Demonstrated ability to use word processing, spreadsheet software and databases for the MAC and PC, with the willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed. Skill in data entry.

• Demonstrated ability to accurately organize, store, and retrieve all experimental samples. Ability to record scientific data in a well-organized laboratory notebook. Good organizational skills including ability to keep clear and accurate records.

• Demonstrated ability to independently create, update, optimize and maintain multiple databases.

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

• Working knowledge of local customs and operations at field / remote sites.

• Demonstrates attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Demonstrates ability to work in ambiguous conditions.

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

• Familiarity with identifying arthropods

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

• Ability to independently follow and troubleshoot established protocols and procedures.

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

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

• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials, including pesticides.

• Must be willing to live and work on a remote island.

• Must be willing to travel back and forth from field location to UCSD as needed.

• Must be willing and able to lift loads of up to 45 lbs throughout the workday.

• Must be willing and able to operate 4-wheel-drive vehicles.

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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For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

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