Research and Monitoring Technician

Wildlife Conservation Society Canada•N/A, ON

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Bat Research and Monitoring Technician will support a variety of bat conservation and research activities across both field and office settings. Responsibilities may include assisting with bat captures, roost monitoring, probiotic applications, and the collection of guano, swab, or tissue samples, as well as deploying acoustic detectors and temperature and humidity dataloggers. The position may also involve data entry and assisting with public outreach activities. Work will occur in a range of environments, from office settings to remote wilderness locations, and will involve a combination of independent work, collaboration with a qualified biologist, and working in a team with another technician. Project tasks will be adapted based on abilities, and to allow the technician to develop skills relevant to applicants' career aspirations.

Requirements

Be between the ages of 15 and 30 of age at the time of application
Must be either a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident or have Refugee Status and legally able to work in Canada and according to the relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations
Enrolled in or recently completed a post-secondary program in biology, ecology, wildlife, environmental science, or a related field
Ability to work long hours in variable weather conditions, including late nights, and overnight fieldwork
Comfortable working in remote and rugged environments
Good physical fitness and ability to hike with equipment over uneven terrain
Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately record and manage data
Ability to follow protocols carefully, including survey protocols and decontamination procedures
Effective communication skills and ability to interact professionally with team members and the public
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (especially Excel) or other data management tools
Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a vehicle on rural or unpaved roads

Nice To Haves

Strong interest in wildlife conservation, with a demonstrated interest in bats or field biology considered an asset
Experience with field data collection (e.g., wildlife surveys, sampling, or monitoring) is an asset
Experience with acoustic monitoring equipment, dataloggers, or other wildlife research tools is an asset
First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) is an asset
Willingness to learn, take initiative, and adapt to changing field conditions and project needs

Responsibilities

Assist with bat capture and handling following established protocols and permits
Support bat roost monitoring and emergence surveys
Assist with probiotic preparation and application at designated treatment sites
Collect biological samples (e.g., guano, swab, and occasional tissue samples) using sterile techniques
Deploy, retrieve, and maintain acoustic detectors for bat monitoring
Install and service temperature and humidity dataloggers at roosts and other sites
Accurately record, manage, and enter field data
Conduct equipment preparation, maintenance, and inventory tracking
Navigate across rugged terrain to reach field sites
Follow safety protocols and assist with risk assessments for fieldwork
Assist with public outreach events, including educational programs and community engagement
Support data organization and preliminary summaries for reporting purposes
Collaborate effectively with team members while also completing assigned tasks independently
Assist with other field and program activities as required
Support WCS Canada’s goal of transforming WCS Canada’s conservation practice through reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
Contribute to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that promotes engagement and belonging.