NEON Lead Seasonal Field Technician - TN

NEON Lead Seasonal Field Technician - TN

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Battelle delivers when others can’t. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients—whether they are a multi‑national corporation, a small start‑up or a government agency.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a continental‑scale observation facility funded by the National Science Foundation and operated by Battelle. The NEON program is designed to collect 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 spanning tropical forests to deserts to tundra (neonscience.org). We depend on our people to collect observational data and samples, to monitor automated instrumented systems that collect terrestrial and aquatic data, and to operate our airborne observation platform that captures remote sensing data of regional landscapes and vegetation.

We are currently seeking a Seasonal Field Technician. This position is an onsite role located in Oak Ridge, TN. This position will start in January 2026 and end in November 2026
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• Perform and supervise field and lab assignments in a variety of conditions (e.g., weather, terrain, diverse assigned biomes, etc.).
• Provide training to, and performance feedback on seasonal personnel.
• Follow established, standardized field procedures for sample collection; record data from sample collection in handheld tablets, computers, etc.; equipment preparation and maintenance, process and ship samples.
• Perform Q/C checks on collected data.
• Navigate to field sites and sampling locations.
• Report activities and completed work according to protocol.
• Follow safety policy and procedures.
• Report issues with implementation of procedures and coordinate resolution.
• Assist with routine administrative duties, special projects including Research Support Services collaborating with external Principal Investigators and other duties as assigned.

• Minimum:
  High School Diploma OR equivalent.
• Three or more months of ecological field sampling or related experience.
• Preferred:
  Undergraduate upper‑level coursework in ecology, forestry, environmental or related scientific field OR six or more months of ecological field sampling or related experience.
• 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 ability to organize and execute multiple activities and priorities.
• Ability to proactively identify and resolve resource conflicts.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated optimism in adverse conditions and good judgement in identifying, mitigating, and avoiding hazards.
• Ability to identify good practices and areas for improvement in team performance.
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to successfully pass background checks and pre‑employment drug testing.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Pay rate: $18.12–$18.57 per hour. This information reflects the anticipated base salary range for this position based on current national data. Minimums and maximums may vary based on location. Individual pay is based on skills, experience, and other relevant factors.

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),…