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The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a continental-scale observation facility funded by the National Science Foundation and operated by Battelle. The NEON program is designed to collect long-term, open access ecological data to better understand how U.S. ecosystems are changing, from freshwater systems such as streams, rivers, and lakes to terrestrial systems spanning tropical forests to deserts to tundra (neonscience.org). We depend on our people to collect observational data and samples, to monitor automated instrumented systems that collect terrestrial and aquatic data, and to operate our airborne observation platform that captures remote sensing data of regional landscapes and vegetation.
Job Summary
We are currently seeking a Field Ecology Intern. This position is an onsite role located in Fresno, CA. This position will start in May 2026 and end in August 2026.
The rugged Sierra Nevada mountain range is home to 20 wilderness areas; two national monuments; and Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks. They also host all five of the NEON field sites in Domain 17, the Pacific Southwest. The sites are located across the largest elevation gradient in the Observatory, providing a unique opportunity to collect data from the foothills to the higher elevations. NEON sites in the Pacific Southwest Domain are managed from our Fresno, CA office.
Field Ecology Interns perform seasonal and periodic sampling of physical, chemical, and biological data at one (1) to multiple field sites (depending on location), while exercising good judgement and decision-making abilities to interpret protocol requirements. This position may be assigned an area of primary responsibility within the scope of data collection: botany, soils, entomology, mammalogy (except Puerto Rico and Hawaii), limnology (except Hawaii), or instrumentation; the position may also be assigned multiple areas of responsibility as a “generalist”.
Field observations and collections are conducted using approximately 30 different protocols and may include NEON Research Support Services projects with varying schedule requirements based on local ecosystem and field conditions
Individuals are responsible for their own housing and transportation to primary work location.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
The work involves walking, hiking, prolonged standing, bending, and kneeling. Heavy items, equipment and packs up to 40 pounds, must be lifted and carried on a routine basis. Field work includes exposure to extreme temperatures, inclement weather, rough and variable terrain, toxic plants (e.g., poison ivy, hogweed), stinging and biting insects, and wildlife hazards. Instrument maintenance involves performing work on instrument towers ranging in height from 24 feet to 240 feet, which includes ascending and descending multiple flights of stairs. Driving off-road in 4WD vehicles is required for most field sites.
Work Schedule and Travel
We have a dynamic work environment where schedules are variable at the manager’s discretion. Generally, employees work 40 hours per week, with workdays ranging from 8-10 hours per day. Occasionally, workdays may extend to 12+ hours per day, including split shifts, starting before dawn and/or ending after dusk, and weekends. The ratio of field to lab work is about 75% field and 25% office and lab duties.
It is important to note that working over 40 hours a week may be required as needed, and overtime will be paid accordingly. Additionally, frequent overnight travel (e.g., semi-monthly for 3-4 nights) is required.
Responsibilities
- Perform field and lab assignments in a variety of conditions (e.g., weather, terrain, diverse assigned biomes, etc.).
- Provide training to, and performance feedback on seasonal personnel.
- Follow established, standardized field procedures for sample collection; record data from sample collection in handheld tablets, computers, etc.; equipment preparation and maintenance, process and ship samples.
- Perform Q/C checks on collected data.
- Navigate to field sites and sampling locations.
- Report activities and completed work according to protocol.
- Follow safety policy and procedures.
- Report issues with implementation of procedures and coordinate resolution.
- Assist with routine administrative duties, special projects including Research Support Services collaborating with external Principal Investigators and other duties as assigned.
Key Qualifications
- Currently pursuing an undergraduate or advanced graduate degree in ecology, forestry, environmental or related scientific field.
- Ability to learn and perform procedures and methods outside of the primary responsibilities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
- Effective problem-solving skills and the ability to organize and execute multiple activities and priorities.
- Ability to proactively identify and resolve resource conflicts.
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Demonstrated optimism in adverse conditions and good judgement in identifying, mitigating, and avoiding hazards.
- Ability to identify good practices and areas for improvement in team performance.
- Valid U.S. Driver’s License with acceptable driving record pertinent to the position.
- Ability to successfully pass background checks and pre-employment drug testing.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Salary
Pay rate: $15.00-$17.00