Field Data Collector - Visitor Study, Arches NP

Overview

The Sustainable Outdoor Recreation and Tourism (SORTL) Lab at Utah State University is seeking two Field Research Assistants to support a visitor experience study at Arches National Park in partnership with the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). This is a paid, short-term field position involving on-site data collection near Moab, Utah for a concentrated two-week data collection deployment during September or October 2026.

• Administer visitor intercept surveys using Qualtrics on a tablet device at designated sites within Arches National Park (The Windows, Delicate Arch, and Devils Garden)
• Apply randomized intercept protocols to select survey participants
• Accurately record survey responses and maintain daily data quality standards
• Follow field protocols, including participant consent procedures and IRB-approved data collection guidelines
• Communicate regularly with the PI regarding daily sampling progress, response rates, and any field issues
• Assist with post-field data entry, review, and basic quality checking

Minimum Qualifications

• Valid driver's license to perform essential job duties, such as driving vehicles within Arches National Park and transporting materials
• Ability to work independently in a remote outdoor environment with minimal day-to-day supervision
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to approach and engage members of the public professionally
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and committed to data quality
• Willingness to work in high-temperature desert conditions for extended periods

Preferred Qualifications

• Background or coursework in outdoor recreation, natural resources, parks management, tourism, geography, or a related field
• Prior experience with survey research, field data collection, or visitor studies
• Familiarity with Qualtrics or similar survey platforms
• Experience working or recreating in national parks or public lands settings

$22/hr

This position requires sustained outdoor work in a desert environment. Field data collection takes place at Arches National Park near Moab, Utah, at elevations between 4,000–5,000 feet in exposed terrain with limited shade. Work is performed primarily outdoors in direct sunlight during fall shoulder season conditions; temperatures may range from 50°F to over 100°F, depending on time of day and season.

Employees must be able to work effectively in these conditions for shifts of up to 6–7 hours.

Physical demands include the ability to stand and walk for extended periods on uneven, rocky, or sandy terrain; hike moderate distances (up to 3 miles round trip) to and from designated survey sites while carrying a tablet device and field supplies; and remain alert and professionally engaged with members of the public throughout the shift. Employees must be able to carry a pack of up to 20 pounds including water, supplies, and equipment.

Mental demands include the ability to follow structured data collection protocols with a high degree of accuracy, exercise sound judgment in participant selection, maintain focus and professionalism during repetitive tasks, and work independently without close supervision for extended periods. The position requires strong verbal communication skills in English to approach and survey park visitors from diverse backgrounds. Employees must be comfortable managing occasional refusals or difficult interactions with the public in a calm and professional manner.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Interested applicants with questions about accommodations are encouraged to contact the hiring department prior to applying.

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

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