Field Research Assistant - 127891

Under close supervision, assist with field work the on-going Argentine ant eradication program on San Clemente Island (SCI), a Naval installation on the southern-most of California's Channel Islands. The incumbent will work under supervision of the PI and receive work direction from the Lead Field Researcher to assist with measuring the efficacy and conservation gains of Argentine ant eradication and implement eradication protocols in wild land areas. Duties include mapping the boundaries of Argentine ant infestations, preparing pesticide baits for deployment, hand treating infestations, coordinating helicopter-assisted treatments, and conducting post-treatment monitoring. This position involves strenuous fieldwork that includes hiking rugged terrain while mapping and treating Argentine ant infestations. All field work will be conducted on SCI, which is owned and operated by the U.S. Navy as a test and evaluation site, shore bombardment range, and warfare training grounds. The island is home to a large number of endemic and rare plant, animal and bird species, with an extensive community of biologists, archaeologists and researchers. Incumbent will collaborate frequently with other lab members, members of the U.S. Navy, and other members of the SCI field station teams. ~Room and board will be provided while on San Clemente Island. ~Work schedule will be 5 days on-island and 2 days off-island. Schedule may change based on needs of project. This will be a 6-month limited position at 100% time, with possibility of extension based on project and department needs. ~Transportation to and from the island via the Coronado Naval Base is provided. ~Portions of this project that do not require being on the island can be completed on the mainland. ~Pesticide applicators certification from California may be required for this position. Training can be completed at the start of the field season. QUALIFICATIONS Graduation from high school or a GED and two years of laboratory experience or two years of college-level coursework including courses in biology or ecology, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Familiarity with identifying arthropods Experience with social insects in both laboratory and field settings. Ability to safely operate and maintain mechanical equipment, hand tools, herbicide/pesticide application equipment, and GPS units. Knowledge of and experience in general lab protocols. Skill in the use of standard laboratory equipment. Experience using computers as well as spreadsheet and word processing software such as Word and Excel. Knowledge of basic laboratory safety requirements and procedures, and ability to maintain up-to-date safety training certification. Basic knowledge of chemical regulations for safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals. Skill in maintaining clear and concise records with strict attention to detail. Ability to carefully follow oral and written instructions. Some knowledge of local customs and operations at field / remote sites. Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with faculty, academics, students, military, and civilian personnel of a variety of backgrounds. Ability to develop and maintain strategic relationships and partnerships with remote research partners. Ability to collaborate with multiple agencies to fulfill contractual duties. Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment. Familiarity with basic microbiological and sterile techniques Basic knowledge of ecological issues surrounding invasion ecology and island biogeography. SPECIAL CONDITIONS Must be willing to work with hazardous materials, including pesticides. Must be willing to live and work on a remote island. Must be willing to travel back and forth from field location to UCSD as needed. Must be willing and able to lift loads of up to 50lbs throughout the workday. Most be willing and able to operate 4-wheel-drive vehicles. Must be willing to work in proximity to a helicopter. Pay Transparency Act Annual Full Pay Range: $44,662 - $52,513 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%) Hourly Equivalent: $21.39 - $25.15 Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

Created: 2026-02-06