About The Institute for Applied Ecology

The Institute for Applied Ecology (IAE) is a non-profit founded in 1999 with a mission to conserve native species and habitats through restoration, research, and education. Our vision is a world where all people and wildlands are healthy and interact positively, biological diversity flourishes, and environmental challenges are met with a social commitment to solving problems with scientific principles.

IAE values diversity and equity, and we encourage applications from all groups of people. We recognize that the strength of IAE is in our people, and we believe that every employee has the right to work in surroundings that are free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment. IAE does not and will not discriminate in employment and personnel practices, and our commitment to equal employment opportunity applies to every aspect of the employment relationship.

Studies have shown that Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), women and other marginalized groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and qualifications for the role.

Incomplete applications will not be accepted. IAE will not sponsor H1B visas. Non-U.S. residents must also include a copy of their work visa.

Number of available positions: 1

Location: Flagstaff, AZ (some travel required)

Status: Seasonal, Full-time

Compensation: $20.30/hr.

Plus, travel expenses associated with overnight field work (food and lodging), 16 hours PTO and sick leave, paid holidays, overtime pay, and a $150 gear stipend.

Start date: 8/4/2025

End date: 11/7/2025

About the Role

Contribute to restoration and conservation efforts in the Kaibab National Forest. This crew will complete seed collections to support post-fire habitat restoration and to provide the starting seed for native seed production fields. There may also be opportunities to assist with restoration projects, local native seed farming, and other conservation projects.

A vehicle will be provided for travel to field sites. Fieldwork will involve travel to distant field sites and car camping is required for some crews. The work schedule will typically be 10-hour days, Monday-Thursday, but work during non-traditional hours and on weekends may occasionally be required. The work of these teams will benefit diverse conservation efforts. Learn more about a typical seed collection season on the Southwest Seed Partnership blog.

What You'll Do

Specific Responsibilities: Seed Collection Crew Technicians

• Conduct fieldwork: scout for target plant populations, determine phenology of target species, collect botanical voucher specimens, assess seed quality and collect native seeds, record site data, document activities, and prepare seed for shipping
• Manage data and ensure quality control
• Collaborate closely with IAE Southwest team to meet collection targets 

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Flexibility - IAE’s Southwest office is comprised of a small, dynamic team in which opportunities frequently arise to assist colleagues with tasks and projects outside the direct scope of the position
• A positive attitude with an interest in ecology and botany
• Effective communication skills and experience working on a team
• Organized and detail-oriented
• Basic computer skills 
• Ability to work in bent-over, kneeling, or standing positions for significant periods of time
• Ability to work in and respond to adverse field conditions which may include extreme heat and
• sun exposure, monsoonal rains, flash flooding, lightning, and hazardous wildlife
• Comfortable in a backcountry setting: ability to work long hours in adverse weather conditions while maintaining attention to the task and safety
• Must have a valid driver's license (in good standing) and ability to drive a 4WD vehicle on rugged, off-highway gravel or dirt roads
• Ability to lift at least 20 lbs. and hike up to 3 miles per day
• Experience or willingness to camp

Preferred Qualifications

• Plant ID skills using technical keys and collecting plant vouchers
• Knowledge of plants of the Southwest
• A valid driver's license (in good standing) and the ability to drive a 4WD vehicle on
• rugged, off-highway gravel or dirt roads
• 1+ field seasons performing ecological field work
• Electronic data collection experience
• Coursework/training in botany and/or a degree in botany or a related field