Wildlife Technician (Prairie dogs, Plague, Black-Footed Ferrets)

Prairie Wildlife Research Wall, SD • Wall, SD

407d • $52,000 - $52,000

About The Position

The Wildlife Technician position at Prairie Wildlife Research focuses on monitoring and mitigating the impact of plague on black-tailed prairie dog populations and endangered black-footed ferrets within the Conata Basin/Badlands National Park ecosystem in South Dakota. The role involves fieldwork, data collection, and collaboration with various agencies to ensure the health and preservation of these species.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in wildlife, biology, natural resources, environmental science, or a related field (completed by start date).
• Valid US driver's license for operating a motor vehicle in South Dakota.
• Proficiency in Microsoft applications (Outlook, Word, Excel).
• Strong interest in environmental stewardship and ability to lift heavy loads.
• Experience driving on gravel roads and off-road, including towing a trailer.
• ATV and UTV training certification (preferred, training available).
• Ability to pass the South Dakota pesticide applicator permit test or apply for reciprocity if permitted in an adjacent state.
• GPS and GIS skills (Garmin, Avenza, ESRI Arc products).
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with field data collection and wildlife monitoring.
• Familiarity with prairie ecosystems and conservation practices.

Responsibilities

• Conduct plague surveillance through windshield surveys of prairie dog colonies and swabbing burrows for fleas.
• Coordinate with agencies on carnivore serosurveillance and collect carcasses for disease testing.
• Apply insecticide dust into prairie dog burrows and inspect contractors applying plague mitigation products.
• Map prairie dog colony boundaries and estimate burrow density.
• Trap and translocate prairie dogs as needed.
• Conduct black-footed ferret surveys using spotlighting and snowtracking techniques.
• Set up trail cameras for monitoring prairie dogs and black-footed ferrets.
• Maintain and prepare equipment for field use, including vehicles and traps.
• Collect spatial data for GIS analysis.

Benefits

• Salary of $25/hour for a 40-hour week ($52,000/year), paid bi-weekly.
• 1-year contract with potential for a second year based on performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree