Job Opportunity: Botanical Field Assistant with Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Native Plant Conservation Program

[Isaac Sandlin]

The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) Native Plant Conservation Program is seeking a hardworking and enthusiastic Botanical Field Assistant to join our Native Plant Conservation Program team. This six-month, full-time seasonal position provides valuable hands-on experience in supporting the conservation of Oregon’s unique and threatened native plant species.

 

Organization: Oregon Department of Agriculture Native Plant Conservation Program
Location: Corvallis, Oregon
Position Type: Seasonal, Full-Time (Six-Month Temporary Position)

 

About Us

ODA’s mission is to protect and promote Oregon’s agriculture, natural resources, working lands, and communities. Through our Native Plant Conservation Program, we play a pivotal role in safeguarding the state’s diverse flora, including many threatened and endangered species. Join us and contribute to the preservation of Oregon’s natural heritage.

 

Position Overview

The Botanical Field Assistant will work closely with program staff to support plant conservation projects. You’ll assist in seed collection, field surveys, collect data, and contribute to maintaining the health and stability of Oregon’s native plant populations. This role is ideal for individuals seeking to gain experience in conservation work in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Field Support: Assist with seed collection, seed cleaning, surveying and monitoring plant populations, and documenting field observations.
• Data Management: Participate in data entry and quality control to support conservation planning and reporting.
• Team Collaboration: Work with program staff and volunteers to achieve project goals.
• Equipment Maintenance: Assist with organizing and maintaining field equipment.
• Other Duties: Provide general support to the Native Plant Conservation Program as needed.

Qualifications

 

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to work safely and effectively in remote field settings under variable conditions.
• Physically fit to perform fieldwork, including hiking and carrying equipment up to 40 lbs.
• A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with Oregon’s native plant species.
• Experience working outdoors or in a conservation-related role.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Working Conditions

• Extensive outdoor fieldwork in various weather conditions, often in remote locations.
• Hiking on uneven terrain and carrying equipment up to 40 lbs.
• Overnight travel and camping for multiple days.

Employment Details

• Compensation: $3,080 – $3,560 per month, commensurate with experience.
• Duration: Full-time, six-month seasonal position beginning approximately April 1 and ending September 30.
• Benefits: The State of Oregon offers a competitive and affordable health and benefits package, including excellent medical, vision, and dental coverage, paid holidays off, and personal business leave, as well as paid and accrued vacation leave and sick leave. In addition to standard medical benefits and employee leave, the state also provides additional optional benefits, such as basic life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, deferred compensation savings program, and flexible spending accounts for health care and childcare expenses. More information is available from the Public Employees Benefit Board.

Application Process

Interested candidates should apply via the State of Oregon Workday Careers Page at: https://oregon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/SOR_External_Career_Site/job/Corvallis–ODA–OSU-Native-Plant-Conservation-District-Office/Laborer–Botanical-Field-Assistant-_REQ-173009?clientRequestID=78a4ece31dbe4dada71bdc1f551630aa

 

Applications must include a resume, cover letter, and references. For full consideration, apply by January 20, 2025.

 

Commitment to Diversity

The Oregon Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.

 

Join our team and gain valuable experience while helping to preserve Oregon’s unique botanical heritage!

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