Wildlife Telemetry Technician (Desert Tortoise Monitoring Program)

GREAT BASIN INSTITUTE

2d • $22 - $22 • Onsite

About The Position

The Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is federally listed as a threatened species north and west of the Colorado River under the Endangered Species Act. Desert Tortoise Wildlife technicians will monitor desert tortoise populations using radio telemetry. Understanding and experience using telemetry equipment is required. Knowledge of tortoise biology, conservation, and desert ecology is desired. Monitoring occurs during March through October to coincide with the active season of desert tortoises. Wildlife Technicians (2) will be required to demonstrate proficiency in telemetry and tracking using radio telemetry equipment. Prior telemetry experience is required. The Wildlife Technician will have the sole responsibility of gathering weekly location data on all assigned desert tortoises. They will also be required to demonstrate proficiency in backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, and use of GPS, topographic maps, and electronic data collection technology. In addition, Wildlife Technicians will be field tested on their knowledge of and ability to follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely. The Wildlife Technicians will work for 4-5 days per week with 2-3 days off with an understanding that the schedule is subject to change with little or no notice. Spike camping in the field will be required for part of the monitoring season. There are two telemetry sites, one is east of Las Vegas on the Boulder City Conservation Area, BCCE, and the other is west of Las Vegas on the west side of the Spring Mountains at Trout Canyon and Stump Springs. Each Wildlife Technician will be assigned to one site but may support monitoring at both sites.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field, required
• Experience with telemetry equipment and tracking required
• Experience collecting field data or following established field data collection protocols required
• Self-motivated with ability to maintain a positive attitude while working independently required
• Ability to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice required
• Ability to walk a minimum of 10 km/day in challenging terrain and harsh and rapidly changing desert conditions, and otherwise be in good physical condition required
• Willingness to camp in the desert backcountry for consecutive days required
• Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license required
• Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road required

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of tortoise biology, conservation, and desert ecology is desired
• Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for navigation and/or data collection preferred

Responsibilities

• Gathering weekly location data on all assigned desert tortoises
• Demonstrate proficiency in backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, and use of GPS, topographic maps, and electronic data collection technology
• Follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely

Benefits

• Field Per Diem ($25.00 per day while camping)
• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost
• Access to Pro Deals

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees