Field Ecologist I - Botanist

Botanical Society of America; Tuscaloosa (AL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Battelle's National Ecological Observatory Network in Tuscaloosa, AL seeks a Field Ecologist I – Botany for onsite work. The role focuses on plant phenology, diversity and biogeochemistry data collection, with responsibilities for data quality and field training.

Ideal candidates have an associates degree or equivalent experience, with a preference for a bachelor's in Environmental Science or Biology. Occasional travel and safety-focused work are required.

Qualifications

• Associates degree in ecology, forestry, environmental sciences, or related scientific discipline AND One (1) year of related experience
• OR Two (2) or more years of related experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field (preferred)

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, supervise and perform plant phenology, diversity, productivity, and biogeochemistry data collection following established, standardized field, lab, and shipping procedures.
• Record data accurately and completely; perform data Q/C checks and resolve errors in collaboration with staff scientists.
• Provide training, instruction, and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel.
• Ensure work hazards are identified and mitigated and support a culture of safety.
• Follow all permitting requirements and assist with permit reporting and renewals.

Skills

Field data collection

Data quality control

Team supervision

Safety culture

Education

Associates degree in ecology, forestry, environmental sciences, or related scientific discipline

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, or related field

Job description

Position Title: Field Ecologist I - Botanist

Application Review Begins: Thursday, October 15, 2026

Institution: Battelle

Department/Division: National Ecological Observatory Network

Field (e.g., systematics):

City: Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States

General Information

We are currently seeking Field Ecologist I – Botany. This position is an onsite role located in Tuscaloosa, AL.

The Ozarks Complex (Domain 08) takes its name from the Ozark Mountains and Plateau, but this diverse Domain has more than just mountains. Stretching across the southern U.S. from eastern Oklahoma and Texas to western Georgia, Domain 08 supports a variety of ecosystems ranging from upland hardwood forests to coastal floodplains. The NEON program field sites in Alabama provide a window into watershed dynamics in the southeastern U.S. NEON sites in the Ozarks Complex Domain are managed from our Tuscaloosa, AL office.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The work involves walking, hiking, prolonged standing, bending, and kneeling. Heavy items, equipment and packs up to 40 pounds, must be lifted and carried on a routine basis. Field work includes exposure to extreme temperatures, inclement weather, rough and variable terrain, toxic plants (e.g., poison ivy, hogweed), stinging and biting insects, and wildlife hazards. Instrument maintenance involves performing work on instrument towers ranging in height from 24 feet to 150 feet, which includes ascending and descending multiple flights of stairs. Driving off-road in 4WD vehicles is required for most field sites.

Work Schedule and Travel

Work schedules are typically 8-10 hours per day but can occasionally be 12+ hours per day, including split shifts (off in the middle of the day), starting before dawn and/or ending after dusk, and weekends depending on the work assignment. The ratio of field to lab work is about 75% field and 25% office and lab duties. [BD1.1]

Frequent overnight travel (e.g., semi-monthly for 3-4 nights) is required.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Associates degree in ecology, forestry, environmental sciences, or related scientific discipline AND One (1) year of related experience
• OR
• Two (2) or more years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field
• OR
• An equivalent combination of education and experience or four (4) years, which provides proficiency in the areas of responsibility listed above, may be substituted for the above education and experience requirements.
• Previous NEON experience

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, supervise and perform plant phenology, diversity, productivity, and biogeochemistry data collection following established, standardized field, lab, and shipping procedures.
• Record data accurately and completely; perform data Q/C checks and resolve errors in collaboration with staff scientists.
• Provide training, instruction, and technical guidance to seasonal field personnel.
• Ensure work hazards are identified and mitigated and support a culture of safety.
• Follow all permitting requirements and assist with permit reporting and renewals.