NEON Seasonal Field Technician - AK

Neon Program Overview

The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a continental‑scale observation facility funded by the National Science Foundation and operated by Battelle. NEON collects long‑term, open‑access ecological data to better understand how U.S. ecosystems are changing, from freshwater systems such as streams, rivers, and lakes to terrestrial systems that span tropical forests, deserts, and tundra. We depend on our people to collect observational data and samples, monitor automated instrumented systems that capture terrestrial and aquatic data, and operate our airborne observation platform that collects remote sensing data of regional landscapes and vegetation.

We are currently seeking a Seasonal Field Technician. This onsite role is located in Fairbanks, AK
. The position will start between April–May 2026 and end between September–October 2026
. Remote locations. Cold winters. Short summers with near 24‑hour sunlight. NEON sites in the Taiga and Tundra Domains present challenging field conditions and spectacular scenery. Sites are managed from our Fairbanks office.

Seasonal Field Technicians perform seasonal and periodic sampling of physical, chemical, and biological data at one (1) to multiple field sites (depending on location), exercising good judgement and decision‑making abilities to interpret protocol requirements. The role may focus on one area of primary responsibility (botany, soils, entomology, mammalogy (except Puerto Rico and Hawaii), limnology (except Hawaii), or instrumentation), or serve as a generalist within multiple areas.

Field observations and collections use approximately 30 different protocols and may include NEON Research Support Services projects with varying schedule requirements.

Individuals are responsible for their own housing and transportation to the primary work location.

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, stinging, biting, and swarming insects, and wildlife hazards. Instrument maintenance involves working on instrument towers ranging from 24 feet to 72 feet, which includes ascending and descending multiple flights of stairs.

Off‑road 4WD vehicles are required for most field sites.

Workdays vary and are typically 8–10 hours long, with occasional 12+ hour days, split shifts, and weekend work. Over 40 hours a week may be required, and overtime will be paid accordingly. Frequent overnight travel (2–3 times per month for 3–4 nights) is required, along with occasional trips to Domain 18 that can last up to three weeks. Some positions are based in Domain 18 for the duration of the field season.

The ratio of field to lab work is about 75% field and 25% office and lab duties.

• Perform field and lab assignments in a variety of conditions (e.g., weather, terrain, diverse biomes).
• Follow established, standardized field procedures for sample collection; record data from sample collection in handheld tablets, computers, etc.; prepare and maintain equipment, process and ship samples.
• Navigate to field sites and sampling locations.
• Report activities and completed work according to protocol.
• Follow safety policy and procedures.
• Report issues with the implementation of procedures and coordinate resolution.
• Assist with routine administrative duties, special projects including Research Support Services cooperating with external Principal Investigators, and other duties as assigned.

• High School diploma, or equivalent. One (1) month experience in ecological field sampling or related experience (forestry, environmental, agricultural, trail work, armed forces, plant nurseries) preferred.
• Ability to learn and perform procedures and methods outside of the primary responsibilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Effective problem‑solving skills and the…