About The Institute for Applied Ecology

The Institute for Applied Ecology (IAE) is a non-profit founded in 1999 with a mission to conserve native species and habitats through restoration, research, and education. Our vision is a world where all people and wildlands are healthy and interact positively, biological diversity flourishes, and environmental challenges are met with a social commitment to solving problems with scientific principles.

IAE values diversity and equity, and we encourage applications from all groups of people. We recognize that the strength of IAE is in our people, and we believe that every employee has the right to work in surroundings that are free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment. IAE does not and will not discriminate in employment and personnel practices, and our commitment to equal employment opportunity applies to every aspect of the employment relationship.

Studies have shown that Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), women and other marginalized groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and qualifications for the role.

Incomplete applications will not be accepted. IAE will not sponsor H1B visas. Non-U.S. residents must also include a copy of their work visa.

Closing date:Sunday, January 5th, 2025

Number of available positions: 1

Location: Corvallis, OR (some travel required)

Status: Seasonal, Full-time

Compensation: $20.00/hr.

Plus, travel expenses associated with overnight field work (food and lodging), paid holidays, sick leave, overtime pay, and a $100 gear stipend. Returning employees receive additional compensation.

Start date: 4/14/2025

End date: 10/24/2025

About the role

The Plant Materials Program at the Institute for Applied Ecology will be hiring one Seed Collection Technician for field work this spring and summer. This position will spend the majority of its time collecting seed in remote areas in Western Oregon. The Plant Materials Technician will be a key member of our small team working to increase the supply of native species (common and rare) for ecological restoration projects. Applicants with interest in seed collection, conservation biology, and restoration ecology are strongly encouraged to apply.

What you"ll do

Specific Responsibilities

• Conduct fieldwork: monitor phenology of target species, collect botanical voucher specimens, assess seed quality and collect native seeds, record site data, document activities
• Collaborate closely with IAE Plant Materials team to meet collection targets
• Communicate with land managers or partners to facilitate access to collection sites; represent IAE in a professional manner
• Manage data and ensure quality control
• Clean and process seed
• Prioritize safety; adhere to check-in/check-out procedures and communications via cell phone or Garmin InReach device to ensure crew safety
• May occasionally assist with planting and weeding at IAE's native seed farm
• Flexibility to work collaboratively on related IAE projects in the same geographic area on an as needed basis

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• A positive attitude with an interest in ecology and botany
• Effective communication skills and experience working on a team
• Organized and detail-oriented
• Basic computer skills
• Able to conduct frequent bending, kneeling, and standing
• Able to work in a variety of adverse weather conditions and environments, including rain and heat, areas with stinging insects and poison oak, and steep terrain.
• A valid driver's license with the ability to drive a 4WD vehicle off-highway

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ field seasons performing plant identification and/or seed collection
• Coursework/training in botany and/or degree in botany or related field
• Plant ID skills using technical keys
• Experience and/or knowledge of the BLM Seeds of Success (SOS) protocol
• Experience with Esri suites (ArcPro, Survey123, FieldMaps) and Microsoft Suites (Word and Excel)
• Able to lift up to 40lbs
• Able to hike up to 3 miles a day

Cover Letter Instructions

In your cover letter please address the following questions:

1. What about this position appealed to you and motivated you to apply?
2. Please highlight any of your skills or experiences that you believe would make you well suited to this position.
3. How would this position support your long-term goals?

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