GSA Online Application System

 

Public Land Name: BLM Moab Field Office Position Title: Paleontology Interpretation Assistant Agency: BLM Position Type: GeoCorps Position ID Number: 2016401 Location: Moab, UT Accepting Applications? # of current Applicants: 0 Position Description: SUMMER OPPORTUNITY; APPLY ASAP. Responsibilities include developing new educational materials, along with researching, preparing and presenting interpretive programs for the public in an exciting and spectacular environment, including guided walks and hikes and interpretive talks on the paleontology and geology of the region. The intern would provide visitors with orientation to a variety of public paleontology sites in the Canyon Country BLM District Office, recreational opportunities, and educate the public about fossils and the Paleontological Resources Preservation Act of 2009. Occasional monitoring of fossil sites will be required. The intern will learn the skills needed to record and monitor paleontological sites, which include writing site descriptions, describing the lithology, and identifying fossils in the field. Field work will be conducted largely in the interior of the rugged and remote Eastern Colorado Plateau, although other priorities may arise as the season progresses. Methods consist of hiking pre-determined target areas within the Eastern Colorado Plateau while closely examining Late Triassic to Late Cretaceous age rock outcroppings for fossil materials (with an emphasis on tracks and vertebrate fossils). This position is offered through the Geological Society of America's GeoCorps America Program in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management. Goals, outcomes, and deliverables: The goals of this position are to develop and test educational materials for the public, to lead guided tours for the public, and to assist with various paleontological resource surveys. The work will vary from day to day but its focus will be on curriculum and brochure development, programs for adults and children, and associated activities. They will also develop and give a patio talk to the public at the Moab Information Center and three to six different guided hikes. The project(s) that the intern will be working on will be determined both based on current needs and on their background/expertise. By completing these projects, the intern will gain valuable skills in education and outreach. Materials produced will include brochures, site specific activities, site documentation, reports related to the description provided above. The chosen participant will work closely with the District Paleontologist to create inspiring, accessible, and interactive materials that engage visitors with current regional paleontological discoveries. Projects may include creating new education and exhibit materials, engaging with the public through onsite tours, and writing exciting content that will interest visitors. Agency involvement (project oversight, mentoring, team building, etc.): The intern would be mentored by the District Paleontologist and mentor will provide support to the intern as they start to familiarize themselves with their responsibilities. Mentor and mentee will have weekly meetings on the progress of projects and internship. The mentor would also be someone to bounce program ideas off of, and help with the development of their programs. This person will consistently check in with the intern, show them around the area, answer any questions they have, and help make sure the intern’s needs are met. Professional development & learning opportunities: (trainings, certifications, networking, etc.): Training would include radio use, first aid/CPR, and safety. They would also receive an introduction to interpretation, regional geology, current research, and fossil identification. During the season they would also receive at-site safety briefings and training for job-specific projects. This intern would have to take on many different duties and responsibilities. The intern would gain or improve their public communication skills, teaching abilities, and confidence leading groups. Some projects may involve working directly with BLM staff on a joint effort, while other projects may only require occasional oversight. Leadership Development: Presenting Project Results: Physical/Natural Environment: The Canyon Country District is located in the southeastern portion of the Colorado Plateau. Outcrops are widespread & generally excellent & many classic geological features & global tourist destinations are nearby such as Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, & Deadhorse Point State Park. Work Environment: The participant will work out of the Moab Field Office. Supervision will be by the District Paleontologist. The work week will generally be Monday-Friday, with some weekend days required. Fieldwork will be done largely independently in office & occasionally in a remote backcountry setting. Qualifications: Applicant must be patient, detail oriented, and comfortable working in a diverse team environment. Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing is necessary. The participant must be able to work well independently, both in the office and in the field with little supervision. Applicant should have or be working toward a degree in geology, environmental science, or other related field. Undergraduate students, graduate students, and recent graduates are welcome to apply. Geoscience faculty are also welcome to apply. Applicants must have completed basic undergraduate course work toward a degree in geology or biology, with an emphasis in paleontology. Preference will be given to students having an excellent academic record and a demonstrated ambition to pursue paleontology as a career. Those who are beginning graduate or undergraduate thesis projects are especially encouraged to apply. Experience with Access database, photogrammetry techniques, and/or graphics programs will be useful. Previous experience in basic sedimentary geology is essential for this position. Experience working with dinosaurs or dinosaur tracks in particular is a plus. The intern should be familiar with GPS technologies. Applicant must be able to read, use and navigate off maps, and hike in rugged, remote terrain. Applicant must have a valid driver’s license and a good driving record. A government security background clearance must be completed prior to reporting for duty. Vehicle / Driver's License Requirement (If applicable): x Position Dates: May-September, flexible start/end dates Position Duration: 20 weeks Hourly Wage: TBD Housing Details: Housing may be available for early applicants. Moab has no public transportation system. Personal vehicle or bike is recommended as available housing is 10 miles to the south of Moab. In town housing could possibly be found by the participant, and would lessen the need for a personal vehicle. If you have questions about the application and selection process, please contact GSA's GeoCorps managers.  If you have questions about any aspect of the position — description, qualifications, housing, dates — please direct them to the contact(s) listed in the project description. Remember, application materials can only be submitted online. The project contact(s) will not accept application materials sent to them via e-mail, mail, fax, etc. See the full program details at the GeoCorps homepage. PRIMARY CONTACT INFORMATION ReBecca Hunt-Foster Paleontologist 82 East Dogwood Moab, UT 84532  (435) 259-2179  rhuntfoster@blm.gov Website SECONDARY CONTACT INFORMATION Jennifer Jones Acting Supervisory Recreation Planner 82 East Dogwood Moab, UT 84532  (435) 259-2110  jljones@blm.gov Website