Wildlife Technician

State of Montana•Eureka, MT

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Biology Field Technician 2 positions will support research evaluating the use of remote cameras and GPS radio-collars to monitor large mammal populations in northwest Montana. The positions require extensive time in the field away from the duty station. Technicians will work on foot hiking long distances in challenging environments (steep terrain, thick vegetation, bear habitat) to deploy remote cameras across northwest Montana during spring and summer. Familiarity with scientific data collection protocols and strong attention to detail are required. Field work will require the technician to work alone or in teams in remote locations, driving, hiking, and climbing long distances over mountainous terrain, sometimes in inclement weather. Field skills need to be supplemented with strong interpersonal and communication skills. Must perform field duties in habitats where encounters with grizzly and black bears, wolf, mountain lion, moose, and other potentially dangerous wildlife are possible. Requires extensive driving on highways, primitive logging roads & occasionally off-road. Hours of work are often long and irregular, may include weekend work, and will require frequent overnight camping or lodging.

Requirements

Familiarity with scientific data collection protocols.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability to navigate difficult terrain off roads and trails using GPS and maps.
Good organizational and time management skills.
Ability to accurately collect and record data.
Demonstrated ability to work with professional biologists, other staff, and the public.
Written and verbal communication skills.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to operate four-wheel drive vehicles.
Ability to work without supervision in potentially hazardous conditions.
Basic knowledge and understanding of biology and animal ecology.
Introductory knowledge of computer applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and database management applications.
Introductory map reading skills and familiarity with map coordinate systems.
Experience with use of telemetry equipment and GPS units.
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.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience with wildlife or fisheries field work and scientific data collection.
Knowledge of the safe collection of blood, tissue, or other samples from animals.
Knowledge of animal handling.
Experience with ESRI GIS software.

Responsibilities

Support research evaluating the use of remote cameras and GPS radio-collars to monitor large mammal populations.
Deploy remote cameras across northwest Montana.
Work on foot hiking long distances in challenging environments.
Work alone or in teams in remote locations.
Drive on highways, primitive logging roads, and occasionally off-road.
Perform field duties in habitats with potentially dangerous wildlife.
Conduct surveys and perform radio telemetry.
Collect and record data accurately.