USDA Forest Service, Northern Research Station, Forest Inventory and
Analysis (FIA) http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/fia/

Title: Vegetation Specialist (contract Botanist or Ecologist)
Number of Positions: 12
Grade: GS 7 or 9
Time Period: June 2, through no later than September 12, 2008
Duty Station Locations: Murphysboro, IL; Old Town, ME; Westfield,
MA; Manistique, MI; Springfield, MO; Columbia, MO; Cortland, NY;
Lakeville, NY; New Philadelphia, OH; Clearfield, PA; Long Pond, PA;
and Elkins, WV

Duties: The Vegetation Specialists will be primarily responsible for
the collection of FIA Vegetation Diversity and Structure Indicator
data (http://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/fia/topics/veg/) including species
identification and cover estimates for all trees, shrubs, herbs,
graminoids, ferns, and fern allies occurring on FIA plots. The
Vegetation Specialist will work as a member of a multi-person FIA
field crew under the direction of a crew leader, and will assist with
other field measurements as time allows. FIA plot locations are
scattered throughout a state or groups of states and are not limited
to National Forest Lands; the vast majority of the plots are located
on private property. The work requires regular and recurring
physical exertion in the form of travel on foot over rough, uneven,
and steep terrain. Field crews travel frequently and work
independently. The work requires several hours of driving, several
days each week. During travel periods (approximately June through
September), crews will change locations frequently, often on a weekly
or daily basis. Lodging is generally in motel/hotels.

Qualifications Required:

Education

Degree: (Botanist:) Botany; or basic plant science, that included at
least 24 semester hours in botany; or (Ecologist:) Biology, or a
related field of science, that included at least 30 semester hours in
basic and applied sciences -- these hours must have included at least
9 semester hours in ecology, and 12 semester hours in physical and
mathematical sciences.

GS-7: PLUS 1 year of graduate-level education or superior academic
achievement. GS-9: PLUS 2 years of graduate-level education or
Master's Degree.

OR

Experience

GS-7: one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower
grade level. GS-9: one year specialized experience equivalent to the
next lower grade level. (Specialized Experience Definition:
Substantial experience in various biological techniques which has
equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills and abilities
needed to successfully perform the duties of the position to be
filled.)

OR

Combination of Education and Experience

In addition to Botanist or Ecologist qualifications listed above,
applications will be evaluated for specific knowledge, skills, and
abilities, including:

- Knowledge of the principles, concepts, and practices of botany

- Ability to perform basic data processing, tracking, and editing
functions using word processing, spreadsheet, and database computer
programs; and

- Ability to identify regional vascular plant species – including
trees, shrubs, herbs, graminoids, ferns, and fern allies – using
regional and local comprehensive identification keys.

When submitting a resume, qualifications/experience in these areas
should be highlighted. Any previous experience completing the FIA
Vegetation Indicator or other vegetation inventories should be
included.

For Additional Information:

Applications will consist of an updated resume addressing the
qualifications outlined above under "Qualifications required" and a
copy of your most recent college transcripts. Resumes should include
names and contact phone information for previous employers and
references.

To receive an electronic copy of the detailed position announcement,
which includes additional specific information regarding: work
schedules; wages based on education, experience, and duty station
location; work related travel; government provided property; training
and certification requirements; and contracting information, contact:

Bob Ilgenfritz
U.S. Forest Service
11Campus Blvd., Ste. 200
Newtown Square, PA 19073
Cell Phone: 412-523-2495 – best contact
Office Phone 610-557-4061
Fax: 610-557-4250
E-mail: rilgenfritz@fs.fed.us