[Pollinator] Job Opening: Pollinator Survey Assistant - Scott AFB, IL

[Franks, Dalton]

The University of Montana's Center for Integrated Research on the Environment (CIRE) invites applications for a Pollinator Survey Assistant position.

CIRE's Pollinator Survey Assistant supports ecological monitoring and research activities focused on pollinator conservation, habitat assessment, and vegetation monitoring at Scott Air Force Base, IL. This position provides valuable hands-on experience in applied ecological fieldwork and natural resource management while contributing to projects that support pollinator conservation and environmental stewardship on military lands.

This position is part-time, and temporary, with a required duration of July-October, 2026.

Reporting to project leads and research staff, the Pollinator Survey Assistant will:
*           Conduct standardized adult pollinator surveys using established field protocols.
*           Conduct vegetation surveys and habitat assessments for pollinator resources and habitat conditions.
*           Collect, record, and manage field data accurately and consistently.
*           Utilize GPS units, mobile data collection platforms, and other field equipment to document survey observations.
*           Identify common pollinator insect and flowering plant species relevant to project objectives.
*           Maintain accurate field notes, data sheets, and digital records.
*           Follow established scientific protocols to ensure data quality and integrity.
*           Assist with project-related field preparation, equipment maintenance, and logistical support.
*           Adhere to all safety procedures and fieldwork guidelines.
*           Communicate effectively with project staff and field crew members.
*           Work collaboratively with team members while maintaining the ability to complete assigned tasks independently in the field.
*           Provide assistance with specialized sampling techniques or survey activities as directed by project supervisors.
*           Support additional research and monitoring activities as needed.

Minimum Required Education and Experience
The following knowledge, skills and abilities are required of the successful applicant:

A Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Environmental Science, Biology, Natural Resources, Entomology, Botany, or a closely related field is required.

*           Knowledge of ecological principles, pollinator biology, plant communities, habitat connectivity, and environmental science.
*           Strong skills in identifying pollinator species and plant species relevant to pollinator habitat and conservation.
*           Familiarity with pollinator ecological survey methodologies and habitat assessment techniques.
*           Understanding of field safety procedures, scientific data collection standards, and research best practices.
*           At least two (2) years of experience conducting ecological field surveys and collecting scientific data, including at least one (1) year of pollinator and plant identification experience.
*           Ability to accurately collect, record, and manage field data.
*           Proficiency with GPS units, mobile data collection applications, and standard field equipment.
*           Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
*           Ability to work effectively with interdisciplinary teams and project partners.
*           Ability to clear a Department of Defense background screening and obtain visitor access to military installations.



Preferred Qualifications
The following education, knowledge, skills and abilities are preferred:

*           Master's degree (M.S.) in Ecology, Environmental Science, Entomology, Conservation Biology, Natural Resources, or a related field.
*           Experience conducting pollinator, vegetation, or wildlife surveys in the Midwestern United States.
*           Strong familiarity with native pollinator identification, including bees and butterflies common to southern Illinois.
*           Experience supporting ecological research, conservation, restoration, or monitoring projects.

About the Center for Integrated Research on the Environment
CIRE offers expert task-based execution and research in environmental programs management and coordination, natural resources management and cultural resources management to our Federal, Tribal, State and private-sector partners via cooperative agreements, intergovernmental service agreements, grants, contracts and partnering opportunities.

Position Details

Position Title:                    Pollinator Survey Assistant
Position Number:              TBD
Department:                       Center for Integrated Research on the Environment (CIRE)
Work Schedule:                 Part-time, 0.4 FTE (16 Hours a week), 4 month duration. Position requires an alternative work schedule due to environmental fieldwork. Schedule can be determined with on-site personnel and the CIRE Management Team.
Compensation:                                $21.00/hour - $25.00/hour depending on qualifications and experience
Union Affiliation:               None
Probationary Period:        N/A

Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to the Offer of Employment In accordance with University regulations, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations. ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. For example, this material is available in alternative format upon request. As an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications from minorities, veterans, and women. Qualified candidates may request veterans' or disabilities preference in accordance with state law. References: References not listed on the application materials may be contacted; notice may be provided to the applicant. Testing: Individual hiring departments at UM may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions. Employment Eligibility: All New Employees must be eligible and show employment eligibility verification by the first date of employment at UM, as legally required (e.g., Form I-9).


How to Apply
Application Deadline: Friday, July 10th, by 11:59 PM (Mountain Time)
Candidates are required to submit the following materials to Dalton.franks at mso.umt.edu<mailto:Dalton.franks at mso.umt.edu>

A complete application Includes:

  1.  Letter of Interest (1 page) - addressing your qualifications and experience related to the stated required skills for the position.
  2.  Detailed Resume - listing education and describing work experience.
  3.  Professional References - names and contact information for three (3) professional references.



Dalton Franks
Senior Natural Resources Project Manager
Center for Integrated Research on the Environment (CIRE)
University of Montana
www.umt.edu/cire<http://www.umt.edu/cire>

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