Deer Management Program Seasonal Project Assistant

Deer Management Program Seasonal Project Assistant

This is an hourly, temporary, non-exempt, non-benefited position. Hourly wage is $22.

Position Summary

Browsing by overabundant deer results in damage to plant communities and degrades habitat needed by other native wildlife. During the Fall of 2026, Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies will conduct a controlled, focused hunt to reduce deer numbers and prevent excessive deer damage to natural habitats on our property in Millbrook NY. The Deer Management Program Seasonal Project Assistant will gain firsthand expertise in operating a controlled, focused hunting program to promote ecologically-sound land stewardship.

Essential Responsibilities

The Project Assistant will assist Cary's Manager of Field Research with the operation of the Hunt and Deer Check Station. Duties include monitoring hunters and ensuring they sign in and out properly, assisting with retrieving harvested deer from the property to the Check Station; collecting biological data from harvested deer; patrolling roads to ensure compliance with regulations and discouraging trespassing; The Project Assistant will also perform data entry and analysis, along with general clerical and cleaning duties at the Field Lab Facility.

Required Qualifications

Hiring offers will be determined based on the final candidate's qualifications, experience and availability. Final candidates will be required to successfully complete a post-offer, pre-employment driving background check.

The Project Assistant must be reliable and conscientious when performing routine tasks. Candidates must have a valid driver's license and be able to drive a pickup truck. The ability to work all specified weekends for the duration of employment is a requirement.

Preferred Qualifications

A biology background with field and data management experience in wildlife ecology is preferred.

Required Skills

The Project Assistant must have good interpersonal skills and be able to effectively communicate with a diverse audience including staff, hunters and the general public.

Working Conditions

Work Environment: Work will be performed both inside a climate-controlled office, driving a 4WD vehicle on public roads and private access roads and trails, and outdoors in seasonal and inclement weather conditions.

Hours and Schedule: Daily work hours will generally be 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM with a 1/2-hour unpaid lunch. The work schedule will include the following dates during 2026: November 14, 20-22, 27-29, December 4-6, 11-13. There may be the opportunity to work additional weekdays during that period depending on our needs and the Assistant's availability.

Travel Requirements: Travel will be limited to the Cary property and its surroundings.

Physical Demands: The Project Assistant must be physically able to assist others in dragging harvested deer from the woods to a road, and be willing to handle dead deer. The candidate must be able to lift up to 25 lbs. and hike up to 1 mile over uneven ground.

Safety and Hazards: The position may involve working outdoors in inclement weather, driving during winter conditions, performing physical labor over uneven ground surfaces, and exposure to wildlife.