Seasonal Research and Education Technician

Seasonal Research and education Technician

Responsibilities

• The technician will focus primarily on processing invasive Phragmites seed.
• This will involve following established processes, exercising extreme care and attention to detail in managing and disposing of invasive plant material, and implementing proper seed storage procedures.
• They will also be responsible for helping to implement accessibility and user improvements to online courses and contributing to course promotion.
• Additional tasks may include preparing equipment for field research, contacting landowners about invasive species on their properties, supporting invasive species outreach to targeted groups, and other tasks as assigned.
• These activities will require the ability to complete assigned tasks with care, perform repetitive tasks over long periods of time, and interact with diverse colleagues and stakeholders in a professional, collegial manner.
• Work will be primarily indoors on the St. Paul campus.

Number of hours per week may vary depending on project needs, up to 40 hrs.

Required Qualifications

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to contact and communicate appropriately with stakeholders and colleagues
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Ability to document research activities and keep careful records
• Ability to complete assigned tasks according to project timelines
• experience with word processing and spreadsheet software

Preferred Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or possess a Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, horticulture, or a related field
• Experience cleaning and storing seeds for ecological restoration or other seeding projects
• Experience improving accessibility of digital files
• Experience with environmental outreach or science communication
• Experience working with private landowners or other stakeholders
• Prior experience related to invasive species and/or ecological restoration
• Familiarity with EDDMapS
• Willingness to work outside under sometimes uncomfortable conditions (while prioritizing safety and rescheduling activities as needed due to inclement weather or other risks)
• Valid U.S. state driver’s license and comfort with solo driving trips to field sites

The Larkin Applied Plant Ecology Lab in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology is seeking a Seasonal Research and Education Technician. Their primary task will be preparing seeds of invasive Phragmites for use in field experiments. They will also complete tasks associated with our online ecological restoration training courses and invasive Phragmites research and management program.

https://maisrc.umn.edu/phragmites

https://extension.umn.edu/courses-and-events/ecological-restoration-training-online

Pay Range: $18.00 – $21.00 per hour, depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online Application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your “My Job Applications” page and uploading documents in the “My Cover Letters and Attachments” section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation’s most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).