Job ID359396 LocationAll Other -See Job Description Job FamilyResearch-Support Full/Part TimeFull-Time Regular/TemporaryRegular Job Code8352P1 Employee ClassCivil Service About the Job Classification Title: Research Professional 1 Job Code: 8352P1 Employee Group: Civil Service Salary: $19/hr Overview: The Rare Plan Plant Conservation Technician will assist in rare and native plant conservation and research in MN by working alongside MN Landscape Arboretum and MN Department of Natural Resources (DNR) staff through the MN PlantWatch program and the Arboretum's Plant Conservation Program (PCP). Travel to native habitats throughout MN to help train and assist volunteers to search for rare plants, conduct vegetation surveys, collect seed for rare plant seed banking, and assist in rare plant rescues. Assist with logistics coordination, data collection and entry, seed cleaning, and other conservation and research activities. The position will run from May 13th - Sept 27th 2024, limited flexibility may be available upon request. 1. 50% Drive to various parts of MN to conduct outdoor fieldwork in a range of natural habitat settings. This travel could be done independently or with other Plant Conservation Program and/or MN PlantWatch staff. a) Activities may include: - Train and work with a diverse array of volunteers and agency staff, including occasionally leading group activities - Navigate to natural habitat survey areas, which often requires off-trail hiking in remote locations - Conduct plant surveys and monitoring following specific protocols - Collect detailed data using field forms, tablets, GPS and various apps, and assist MN PlantWatch participants in their work in this area, as well. - Collect seed and plant specimens and assist with digging up and transplanting rare plant rescues - Develop and implement plant identification and survey methodology skills - Be mindful and proactive on field safety for yourself and others - Maintain a positive, collaborative, inclusive, and communicative environment while working with others - Perform other tasks as assigned 2. Conduct office, lab, and greenhouse related work in indoor settings. a) Activities may include: - Data entry, data accuracy verification, data management - Assist with writing guides, protocols, newsletters, reports, and other narratives - Assist with logistics, planning, and coordination for field work with volunteers or groups - Assist with creating field maps, querying spatial data, and spatial database management using ArcGIS and other ESRI products - Develop training modules for in person, online, and/or video trainings - Represent MN PlantWatch at events to promote the program and recruit volunteers - Seed cleaning and cataloging for the Rare Plant Seed Bank - Assist with transplanting and maintaining plants stored in greenhouses or outdoor plots - Assist with simple lab activities typically involving seed testing and germination research - Other activities as assigned Qualifications Required Qualifications (must be mentioned on application/resume): BA/BS or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years. Basic computer software Basic botany training Experience working or spending extensive time in outdoor environments Experience operating GPS units or similar technology Preferred Qualifications: Outdoor work experience in natural environments Plant identification in upper Midwest Familiarity with habitats in upper Midwest Data collection, management, and following scientific protocols Working effectively with diverse groups of people and volunteers Proactive problem solving and safety awareness Experience using mapping/data collection programs such as ArcGIS, Survey123, Field Maps, and Avenza Navigating with satellite imagery or topographic maps Ability to work in remote areas with minimal supervision Planning and leading group activities or outings Overnight travel throughout the state will be occasionally to frequently required (les than 40%). Overnight accommodations may include camping or hotels. Able to work in a variety of outdoor environments for prolonged periods of time. A substantial amount of time will be spent working outside, in the field in remote natural areas, or at MLA. Outdoor exposures may include temperatures above 90 degrees and below 32 degrees, biting insects, poisonous plants, and inclement weather conditions. Physical requirements include the ability to lift 30lbs and hike up to 5 miles/day while carrying 20lbs over variable terrain. Indoor exposures may include typical laboratory chemicals such as cleaning solutions, reagents, and other dry or liquid materials. Physical requirements for indoor activities include the ability to lift 30lbs and stand at a bench/desk for several hours at a time. Candidates should be passionate about plant conservation, be detail oriented, have some familiarity with the flora of the upper Midwest and associated ecological systems, excellent communication and writing skills, an ability to work as part of a small, active team, and have a proactive view of their education. Technicians must respect and maintain the confidentiality of rare species locations and sensitive data. The position requires frequent driving travel during the field season, either using a personal vehicle (mileage reimbursement provided) or a work vehicle. Potentially 30-60% of the incumbent's time during the field season might be travel or field work. Position may require occasional weekend and evening work. Daily work hours may vary but an average of 40 hours/week is expected. Because of the distance involved with some site work, there may be overnight stays. About the Department The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a community outreach unit of the University of Minnesota's College of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resource Sciences. The Arboretum is located west of Minneapolis/St Paul and its 1,200 acres traverse the municipalities of Chaska, Chanhassen and Victoria. As a member of the American Public Garden Association and an accredited museum through the American Alliance of Museums, the Arboretum is a tremendous public asset. Visitors engage with gardens, collections, natural areas, a farm, research demonstrations, youth and adult education, events and exhibits. Please visit us at Benefits Working at the University At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work. The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer-paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan... For full info follow application link. 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.