Battelle
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.
Job Summary 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.
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, 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.
Work Schedule and Travel 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.
Responsibilities
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.
Key Qualifications
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 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 an acceptable driving record pertinent to the position.
Ability to successfully pass background checks and pre‑employment drug testing.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Salary Pay rate: $20.27–$20.78 per hour. The actual salary may vary based on location and the individual’s skills and experience.
A Work Environment Where You Succeed For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering, and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity’s most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier, and more secure world. You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to:
Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects.
Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery.
Partner with world‑class experts in a collaborative environment.
Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders.
Give back to and improve our communities.
Vaccinations & Safety Protocols Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients’ requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment. Documentation that employees are fully vaccinated may be required. Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related state laws.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Battelle is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.
Additional Information For more information about our other openings, please visit
www.battelle.org/careers .
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Job Summary 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.
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, 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.
Work Schedule and Travel 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.
Responsibilities
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.
Key Qualifications
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 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 an acceptable driving record pertinent to the position.
Ability to successfully pass background checks and pre‑employment drug testing.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Salary Pay rate: $20.27–$20.78 per hour. The actual salary may vary based on location and the individual’s skills and experience.
A Work Environment Where You Succeed For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering, and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity’s most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier, and more secure world. You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to:
Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects.
Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery.
Partner with world‑class experts in a collaborative environment.
Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders.
Give back to and improve our communities.
Vaccinations & Safety Protocols Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients’ requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment. Documentation that employees are fully vaccinated may be required. Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related state laws.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Battelle is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.
Additional Information For more information about our other openings, please visit
www.battelle.org/careers .
#J-18808-Ljbffr