Field Scientist (FIELD RESEARCHER 3)

Under the direction of the Executive Director of the One Health Institute, this position provides leadership in organizing and conducting research associated with wetlands habitat restoration and population assessment for the Amargosa vole in Southern California. This position will primarily undertake wetlands habitat and animal community assessments to enhance and restore ecosystem functioning to reduce extinction risk for several endangered species, increase education and awareness of the public. They will work with subcontractors and relevant contacts as appropriate to submit and ensure the success of the project. They will be responsible for all data summary and interpretation, submission of needed reports, and submission of additional grant proposals for expansion of conservation activities as necessary.

This full-time contract position is available for up to three years with successful completion of tasks.

Apply By Date

07/08/2025 by 11:59 pm

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
• BA or BS in science from an accredited University.
• Demonstrated experience in conservation project management, desert ecosystems, marsh habitat management or restoration.
• Excellent written communicator with evidence of having written reports, lay summaries, outreach materials or similar work showing the ability to summarize biological concepts and present cogent and persuasive arguments.
• Advanced skills in diplomacy, oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Skill to work as a team member.
• Organizational skills and flexibility to adjust workload, responding to diverse and changing deadlines.
• Experience using personal computers and software programs (word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation and email programs), as well as larger databases.

Preferred Qualifications

• First Aid, CPR, and AED Training or ability to acquire within 60 days of hire.
• MA/MS or PhD in Science.
• Experience managing research operations that include multiple personnel and agencies.
• Evidence of successful grant acquisition.
• Experience with wild small mammal ecology.
• Knowledge of general botany and plant communities and/or riverine or desert wetlands hydrology.

Key Responsibilities

• 75% - Research
• 20% - Project Management
• 5% - Funding and Grant Writing

Department Overview

The Karen C. Drayer Wildlife Health Center, as a Center of Excellence within the One Health Institute, supports the One Health approach, recognizing that the health of domestic animals, wildlife, and people are inextricably linked with each other and the environment. At UC Davis, it is the organization under which faculty, staff, students, and other partners come together to address the complex issues surrounding conservation and health in a changing world, such as zoonotic diseases that impact animals and humans. The Wildlife Health Center administers high-profile wildlife conservation health programs and is the leader in oil spill response and preparedness nationwide.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $62,000.00 - $109,000.00 /annual
• Salary Frequency: Monthly
• Salary Grade: Grade 20
• UC Job Title: FIELD RESEARCHER 3
• UC Job Code: 005189
• Number of Positions: 1
• Appointment Type: Staff: Contract
• Percentage of Time: 100% Fixed
• Shift (Work Schedule): Mon-Fri/8am-5pm, but flexible, as it is working in the desert in the summer
• Location: Davis, Ca
• Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% on-site

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

* High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
* UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
* Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
* Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
* WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
* On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
* Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
* Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
* Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

• Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Loud noise levels - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Work Environment

The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC Community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdasvispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

Although likely stationed in Davis with much of the work done in an office environment, must also be able to work long hours and days in a relatively harsh desert environment with summer high temperatures up to 115 degrees, and windy, very dry conditions.

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

• To learn more about our background check program, visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
• This is a critical position, as defined by UC policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance, and functional capacity
• Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.

As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks #CA-CB