Contract Position With: Arizona Association of Conservation Districts
Location: Various locations across public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in Arizona
Employment Type: Seasonal (February 27 – May 31, 2025, with potential for extension)

About the Role

Are you passionate about the natural world and enjoy working outdoors in rugged and varied terrain? We’re looking for motivated individuals to join our team as an AIM Field Technician, helping to collect critical vegetation and soils data for the BLM’s National Assessment, Inventory, and Monitoring (AIM) Program.

Key Responsibilities

• Collect vegetation and soils data according to the BLM’s National AIM protocols, including:
• Identifying plants to species.
• Identifying Arizona flora.
• Measuring vegetation composition, height, canopy gaps, and ground cover.
• Mapping and documenting nonnative/invasive plant species using GPS devices and mapping software.
• Taking photo points and managing field data upon return.
• Conduct fieldwork in remote locations, hiking up to 10 miles daily in challenging conditions (extreme heat, cold, rain, sleet, or snow) while carrying field equipment.
• Follow QA/QC protocols to ensure data accuracy and submission into BLM reports and databases.
• Attend AIM training prior to fieldwork.
• Adhere to safety protocols, including safe operation of vehicles and equipment on rugged two-track roads.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, range conservation, or a related field.
• Interest or experience in:
  • Invasive plant management, biological sciences, natural resources, botany, GIS, rangeland management, or plant taxonomy.
  • Using ESRI products, e.g., Survey123 and Field Maps.
• Plant identification skills, preferably with Arizona flora.
• Must be 18 years or older.
• Physically capable of performing fieldwork under challenging conditions.
• Ability to follow directions and safety protocols in backcountry settings.
• Commitment to maintaining data integrity and quality.
• Supply and wear closed-toed shoes and long pants for all field work.

Training may be provided for motivated individuals with the right attitude and potential.

Schedule and Logistics

• Field stints lasting 3–7 days, with variability based on project needs.
• No housing provided; candidates should plan accordingly. Some camping may be required, but that will be dependent upon location, timing, etc.