Temporary Wildlife Research Technician - Wildlife and Fisheries Resources Department

Job Description - Temporary Wildlife Research Technician - Wildlife and Fisheries Resources Department (29114) The Wildlife and Fisheries Resources Department at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a (Remote) Temporary Wildlife Research Technician. The Lituma Lab at West Virginia University is seeking 3 technicians to assist graduate students gathering data on ruffed grouse and songbirds for a six-month period throughout West Virginia. Specifically, we are looking to answer where they can be found, what habitats are preferred, what the habitat composition is and if mosquitoes are accounting for ruffed grouse decline. What You’ll Do Driving several hours each day, hiking long distances off trail in mountainous terrain while carrying field equipment to sites, and identifying avian species by sight and sound. Interacting with private landowners and public (may be required). Technician duties will include setting up and deploying ARUs for sites, performing early morning point count surveys, performing vegetation surveys, capturing mosquitos through passive traps. Field sites are remote and rugged with limited cell reception, although comfortable modern field housing will be provided. Project Phases Late March – April: Monitor ruffed grouse population through roadside point count surveys and deploying autonomous recording units (ARUs). May – June: Songbird roadside point counts. July – August: Mosquito trapping/Vegetation surveys. Work is full time, 5–6 days/week. Daily working schedule is dependent on month. March–June is expected early mornings and early afternoons. July–August is expected early afternoons through early nights. Pay Grade: 10 Length of Assignment: Approximately 5 months Work Hours: 37.5 Hours per week Qualifications Associate’s Degree in Wildlife Ecology, Conservation Biology, Environmental Biology or a related field. Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and ability to perform field work full time. Ability to hike with up to 20 lbs. of gear, for several miles off trails to sites if needed, and work efficiently in typical Appalachian summer conditions. Experience identifying eastern songbirds by sight and sound. Preference given to applicants with previous point count experience or grouse experience. Experience with collecting invertebrates and vegetation surveys preferred (e.g., DBH, canopy cover, tree identification) but training will be provided. A strong work ethic, positive attitude, and attention to detail are essential. Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered. All qualifications must be met by the time of employment. Don’t be afraid to apply if you don’t have all the preferred qualifications. West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr West Virginia University