Wildlife Tech 4

State of Montana•Kalispell, MT

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Biology Field Technician 2 positions will support research evaluating the use of remote trail cameras to monitor large mammal populations in northwest Montana. These positions require extensive time in the field away from the duty station. Housing is provided both on and off duty near Eureka MT. Frequent overnight travel will be required during parts of the field season. The work schedule will be 8 days on, 6 days off. The position is expected to run from approximately September 1 until December 15. These positions are 100% field based. Office work is minimal and generally limited to routine maintenance of field gear and equipment.

Requirements

Minimum of two years of college work towards a Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, fish and wildlife management, animal ecology, biology, or a closely related field and related work experience. Combinations of education and experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Familiarity with scientific data collection protocols.
Strong attention to detail.
Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
Basic knowledge of biology and animal ecology.
Ability to navigate difficult terrain away from roads and trails using GPS units and maps.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to accurately collect and record data.
Ability to work effectively with professional biologists, other staff, and members of the public.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Possession of a valid driver's license.
Ability to safely operate four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Ability to work independently in remote and potentially hazardous conditions.
Willingness and ability to perform duties in inclement weather and winter conditions.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience conducting wildlife or fisheries field work.
Previous experience conducting scientific data collection in remote areas.
May be required to acquire and maintain certification in the capture and handling of wildlife.

Responsibilities

Retrieving remote trail cameras from randomly generated locations throughout northwest Montana.
Working on foot, hiking long distances off trail in challenging environments, including steep terrain, dense vegetation, bear habitat, and inclement weather, to retrieve remote cameras during the fall and early winter.
Hiking several miles per day while carrying field equipment over steep, uneven terrain.
Extensive travel by vehicle on highways, primitive logging roads, and occasionally off-road, including travel during winter conditions.
Collecting scientific data.
Working in habitats where encounters with grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, mountain lions, moose, and other potentially dangerous wildlife are possible.
Working long and irregular hours, including weekends.
Overnight camping or lodging.
Performing duties in inclement weather and winter conditions.
Navigating difficult terrain away from roads and trails using GPS units and maps.
Working effectively with professional biologists, other staff, and members of the public.
Safely operating four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Working independently in remote and potentially hazardous conditions.
Routine maintenance of field gear and equipment.