Botanist -Grand Canyon NP (UNLV)

Botanist

• Grand Canyon NP (UNLV) University of Nevada Las Vegas Las Vegas, Nevada Job Type Temporary Salary $4,100
• $4,300 per month Benefits Healthcare, Retirement Deadline May 31, 2026 Min. Experience 2
• 4 years Project location: North Rim, Grand Canyon National Park Focus area: Dragon Bravo Fire footprint (ignition date: 07/04/2025) Project season: mid-May
• August 2026 This project supports invasive plant monitoring and treatment efforts on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, with work concentrated in areas affected by the Dragon Bravo Fire.

The project combines botanical surveys, species‑level data collection, and invasive plant treatments (mechanical, chemical, and cultural). This position requires strong navigation skills, botanical or plant identification knowledge, and outdoor experience. The field crew will camp or reside in NPS housing during hitches, travel in provided field vehicles, and receive a meals per diem for all field days. Work occurs in rugged, exposed, and variable terrain at elevations 8,000 ft and up, often requiring off‑trail travel and long days in remote conditions. Field Conditions & Physical Requirements (All Positions) Hiking 5-15 miles per day Carrying up to 25 lbs for long distances Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs Working 10-12 hours per day in variable weather Comfort camping in semi‑remote locations for multi‑day hitches Hitch schedules: 8 days on / 6 days off or 4 days on / 3 days off Meals per diem provided for all field days Core Field Crew (May Start) for the Invasive Plants Survey monitoring will consist a botanist and a field assistant. These two positions form the primary survey team responsible for locating, documenting, and assessing invasive plant infestations. They also support the herbicide technician by helping relocate infestations and assisting with treatment efforts.

Salary:

$4,100

• 4,300/mo + benefits

Season:

May

• August 2026, with a possibility of extension based on performance and project needs Additional duties: lead field surveys, develop a species list, maintain project database and field data Primary Responsibilities Engage with NPS Resource Management staff and UNLV researchers Conduct invasive plant surveys across the Dragon Bravo Fire footprint Document infestations and collect species‑level scientific data Survey native plant communities and record ecological conditions Provide field support to the herbicide technician for locating and treating infestations Assist with invasive plant treatments (mechanical, chemical, cultural) Maintain meticulous, repeatable data and follow established monitoring protocols Navigate using GPS, maps, and compass in rugged, off‑trail terrain Ideal Candidates This role is well suited for individuals seeking to build strong plant identification skills for the Grand Canyon region, data collection proficiency, and field navigation experience while working in challenging, high‑elevation environments.

Requirements:

Current U.S. State driver's license; no at-fault accidents in the past five years; clean driving record Completed BA/BS in botany, ecology, biology, environmental science, natural resources, or related fields 1+ years academic/professional experience in field-based research 2+ years plant identification experience using dichotomous keys and other plant identification resources 2+ years outdoor experience (on/off trail hiking, primitive/non-primitive camping, backpacking, field navigation with GPS/maps/compass, and 4WD driving and navigation) 1+ years computer experience (Microsoft Office, Open Office, Google Suite) Able to travel to the UNLV Maryland Campus to present personal identification following Federal I-9 requirements

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with plant surveys using dichotomous keys, regional floras, and online resources in the project region; maintaining species lists; documenting species with notes and photographs Experience with flora of the Colorado Plateau, Grand Canyon region, or adjacent ecoregions Experience working with federal agencies 1+ years project and data management experience How To Apply Before Applying Please review the position descriptions, benefits, and climate conditions for the work region(s). These positions are full‑time, temporary‑limited (no more than 24 months) Letter of Appointment Research Assistant positions within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) and include benefits. All positions require mandatory participation in the FICA Alternative Plan, per university policy (see: https://www.unlv.edu/hr/benefits/retirement/fica). Meals per diem is project‑ and trip-dependent and administered according to university policies governing off‑campus travel. To Apply Email your application materials to lindsay.chiquoine@unlv.

edu Use the subject line:

'GRCA Invasives Crew Botanist 2026.' Emails without this subject line may be missed.

Please include:

A resume or CV A brief cover letter describing your relevant background and skills as they relate to the position In your cover letter, clearly identify: The position you are applying for, the project location, and your availability dates 2-3 references (names and contact information) Applications will be shared with PIs and project partners prior to interview selection. Positions will remain open until filled. On-boarding Requirements Applicants must be willing to communicate by email or phone 2-3 weeks before the contract start date to initiate the hiring process. All hires must report to the UNLV Maryland Campus on or before their first contract day, and on a business day, to complete in‑person I‑9 verification. Please review the I‑9 form in advance to ensure you qualify and have the required documentation.