University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Working Title Ecology Research Assistant (Summer Position) (Temporary) (Multiple Positions Available)

Department School of Biological Sciences-1076

Requisition Number S_250166

Posting Open Date 02/24/2025

Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 03/04/2025

Posting Close Date 

Open Until Filled Yes

Description of Work 

The lab of Sabrina Russo at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (https://russolab.unl.edu/) seeks a summer field technician to aid in a project quantifying the effects of smooth sumac, a woody encroaching plant species, on rangeland plant communities in the Nebraska sandhills. This project will inform large-scale assessments of sumac’s impact on grasslands, sumac encroachment rates, and point the way to better rangeland management.

The technician will gain experience (1) conducting plant identification and other field methods for assessing grassland vegetation and microclimate, (2) learning remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques, (3) completing data management and analysis, and (4) working with others in team-based ecological research. They will accompany a graduate student, Lillie Hoffart, and a small field team. Some travel from the field station to other sites in the sandhills may be required. The assistant will also assist with research projects in the forest plot located at the same study site. The study site is the Niobrara River Preserve, which is located along the Niobrara River, an ecologically important area with opportunities for hiking, fishing, tubing, or other recreational activities.

The position is full-time (40 hours/week), hourly ($15/hour) temporary (3 months) with no benefits. The position is available starting around May 20th through the second week of August. There can be some flexibility with start and end dates. Housing (in a dorm-style setting) will be provided.

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and collaborative workforce. UNL is committed to providing a work environment and culture that fosters personal and professional success where every person and every interaction matters. The University is proud to be one of Nebraska’s preferred and largest employers where individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential.

As an EO/AA employer, qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See: http://www.unl.edu/equity/notice-nondiscrimination

• Minimum Required Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree or degree in progress with an interest in ecology or related fields (e.g. biology, agriculture, wildlife conservation, geography);
• A valid driver’s license and driving record consistent with UNL’s Fleet Management requirements;
• Ability to work and hike outdoors under a range of conditions that include steep terrain and hot or cold or other uncomfortable weather, biting insects, poison ivy, and wild animals
• Enthusiasm to learn new concepts and field skills, to work productively in a collaborative team, and to improve conservation and management of Great Plains ecosystems.
• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with grassland plant and tree ID
• Experience with Microsoft Excel
• Experience conducting field or independent research
• Experience working in a field team
• Experience with data management, GIS, or R

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required No

Physical Required No

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. No

Criminal History Background Check Required Yes

Posted Salary $15.00/hr

How to Apply 

Click on “Apply for this Job”. You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file. Please submit:

1. A 1-page cover letter describing your interest in this position, how the position would advance your career goals, relevant past experience and coursework, start date availability, and contact information for three references including e-mail addresses and phone numbers

2. A CV or resume.

In addition to the online submission, candidates should e-mail the graduate student leading the project (Lillie Hoffart – lhoffart2@huskers.unl.edu) to indicate interest in the position using the subject line “Ecology Research Assistant Position.”

For questions or accommodations related to this position contactLilian Hoffart, lhoffart2@unl.huskers.unl.edu

Job Category (old) Office/Service

Job Type Full-Time Temporary

Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)

Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE

Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? Yes

If Temporary, indicate end date 9/30/2025

Planned Hire Date: 5/01/2025

Appointment End Date 9/30/2025