USFWS Lead Technician Snowshoe Hare

University of New Hampshire•University of New Hampshire - Main Campus, NH

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Earth Systems Research Center (ESRC) of the University of New Hampshire (UNH) is seeking a field technician to lead field efforts on a snowshoe hare research project in northeastern Vermont. This project, supported by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and other academic institutions, aims to evaluate the effects of ecological silvicultural practices on snowshoe hare demography and space use, as well as the responses of other boreal forest species. The field season will occur in the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge and will last approximately 12-14 weeks, with training provided by the principal investigator. This role is critical for gathering data on how species like snowshoe hares will respond to global change.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree (BS) in wildlife ecology or a related field.
At least 1 season of experience live-trapping and radio-collaring mammals.
Experience performing radio-telemetry to obtain locations of radio-collared animals.
Valid driver’s license.
Willingness to take a defensive driver course to be eligible to drive a federal vehicle.
Capability to work independently and communicate effectively with project partners and collaborators.
Leadership experience to oversee the efforts of an assistant technician.
Considerable problem-solving skills.
Ability to work in a range of outdoor environments with a co-worker and independently.
Ability to perform substantial off-trail hiking in remote and rugged wilderness.
Tolerance for biting insects and inclement weather.
Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day and carry a 50 lb. pack.
Ability to work long days in the field (e.g., 10-hours).
Proficiency in using modern (e.g., GPS) and traditional (e.g., map and compass) navigational gear.
Flexibility with work hours, including occasional weekend work.
Ability to follow established field protocols.
Ability to use database, email, and word processing software.
Ability to use mapping software (ESRI products such as Field Maps and Survey123).

Nice To Haves

BS degree in wildlife ecology, wildlife biology, or a related field.
Prior experience with live-trapping and radio-collaring snowshoe hares.
Prior experience conducting CT and ARU surveys.
Experience with conducting telemetry and necropsy surveys for hares.
Experience following detailed protocols.
Experience driving in remote areas.
Ability to identify the trees, shrubs, and plants of northern New England.

Responsibilities

Lead live-trapping efforts, including setting, baiting, and checking live-traps for snowshoe hares.
Lead handling, ear-tagging, and radio-collaring (VHF and GPS collars) of snowshoe hares.
Collect morphological data and genetic samples (tissue from ears) from captured hares.
Conduct weekly telemetry surveys to obtain locations of radio-collared individuals.
Perform necropsy investigations on deceased hares.
Establish camera-trap (CT) and acoustic recording unit (ARU) survey sites.
Directly report to project supervisors/cooperators before and after surveys.
Communicate daily work and plans for the coming day(s) with supervisors.
Enter all field data daily and email it to the project supervisor.