Field Assistant – Job Vacancy, FoRCE project, University of the Sunshine Coast
Summary
Four field assistants are required for a four week period, August 21st – September 15th 2023, in Mission Beach, North Queensland. Fieldwork will comprise establishment of a 1 hectare permanent vegetation sample plot for monitoring the impact of cyclones on secondary rainforest recovery. Assistants will work together in dense vine-dominated forest thickets, to measure and mark all trees and lianas by hand, and to enter the data in an Excel spreadsheet. The work will form part of the pantropical FoRCE experiment, www.force-experiment.com and is intended to stimulate a new network of permanent sample plots for calibrating exciting new methods of forest survey using terrestrial laser scanning.
Prior to commencement, all assistants will be trained in field methods and risk assessment. In situ training will also be provided on day 1. Transport and accommodation in the field will be provided. Costs for transport to/from Mission Beach may also be available, depending on distance and budget.
Standard University of the Sunshine Coast hourly pay rates will apply.
Selection criteria
(1) Essential criteria
- At least one month of prior experience in ecological survey
- Physical fitness sufficient for working in a challenging environment
- Experience in working as part of a team
- Good attention to detail
- Good work ethic
(2) Desirable criteria
- Tertiary qualification completed or ongoing in a relevant subject (e.g. ecology, environmental management, botany)
- Experience working in physically challenging environments
- Experience working in tropical rainforests
- Experience in botanical survey
- First aid training
- Full, clean driving licence
How to Apply
Please send a CV and cover letter outlining suitability against the selection criteria to Andy Marshall, amarsha1@usc.edu.au. Deadline: 25th June 2023.