Research Technician I

Research Technician I Agency: Texas A&M University - Kingsville Department: Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute Proposed Minimum Salary: Commensurate Job Location: Kingsville, Texas Job Type: Temporary/Casual Staff (Fixed Term) Job Description: Research Technician I (Temporary/Casual), under general supervision, performs entry-level, semi-skilled, technical support research work involving performance of routine tasks for the Spatial and Population Ecology of Carnivores (SPEC) Lab at the Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute as part of their ongoing South Texas Ocelot Research Program. This position is temporary and will end no later than May 31, 2027. Will work remotely at Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, with housing provided. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Monitor GPS-collared ocelots and bobcats to detect denning behavior Monitor GPS-collared ocelots, bobcats, and coyotes with telemetry when needed Place remote cameras appropriately at suspected den sites for each species Lead a team to search for dens and collar bobcat kittens Follow a protocol to safely and effectively handle and collar bobcat kittens Use VHF to track collared bobcat kittens weekly and investigate mortalities and/or recover slipped collars Be able to communicate with private landowners and maintain a respectful relationship Respond to mortality events for collared adult bobcats, ocelots, and coyotes across study sites Operate a box trapline for ocelots and bobcats, including setting traps, checking traps, scouting trap locations, and moving traps as needed Participate in chemical immobilizations and work-ups of ocelots and bobcats from December through April May assist with other carnivore fieldwork in South Texas May operate a trapline as needed for small mammals using Sherman traps Collect and organize biological samples Assist with setting and maintaining remote cameras, as well as classifying camera images The above represents the major duties, responsibilities, and authorities of this job, and is not intended to be a complete list of all tasks and functions. Other duties may be assigned. Qualifications Required Education: High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience. Required Experience: Two years of related experience. Required Licenses and Certifications: US driver's license Preferred Qualifications: Previous experience collaring wild felid kittens Previous experience handling wild animals Previous experience working with telemetry Previous experience setting up camera traps Previous experience monitoring GPS-collared animals Previous experience sedating wildlife Previous experience working with public and private entities Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others Ability to work independently in the field within both private and federal lands Excellent data management skills and ability to record and organize information Ability to communicate effectively with people of varying backgrounds Other Requirements Physical Requirements: Ability to lift heavy objects and exert heavy force Ability to hike several miles a day carrying equipment over uneven terrain with thick vegetation Ability to work in the field with >90° heat in thick, thorny brush habitat Other Requirements and Factors: This position is security sensitive This position will require export-control authorization prior to starting employment. This position requires compliance with state and federal laws/codes and Texas A&M University System/TAMU policies, regulations, rules and procedures All tasks and job responsibilities must be performed safely without injury to self or others in compliance with System and University safety requirements This position may require work beyond normal office hours and/or work on weekends not exceeding 40-hour work week. Why Join the Javelina Nation? Texas A&M University–Kingsville offers a supportive, mission-driven culture focused on excellence in teaching, research, and service. All employees enjoy: A welcoming campus community Opportunities for professional development Competitive benefits through the Texas A&M University System A rewarding experience of helping students achieve their academic and career goals Shared Values: TAMUK employees uphold the Shared Values of Care, Integrity, Pride, Innovation, and Excellence, which form the foundation of the University's culture and guide its strategic plan. More information on TAMUK's Strategic Plan and Shared Values can be found here. 4DX: TAMUK employees actively engage in Franklin Covey's 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) activities within their departments. TAMUK utilizes 4DX as the framework for pursuing strategic goals by creating a culture of high performance. This requires participation from all faculty and staff. More information on 4DX can be found here. Caring Campus: TAMUK employees embody the Institute for Evidence Based Change's Caring Campus mindset, maintaining a collegial and caring attitude towards students and each other to foster student engagement and a positive, collaborative work environment. More information on Caring Campus can be found here. Compensation & Benefits Compensation: Commensurate with experience Texas A&M University-Kingsville offers a career filled with purpose and opportunity in addition to competitive wages. In addition to base pay, TAMUK provides eligible employees a comprehensive Total Rewards package designed to support employees' well-being, professional growth, and financial security. BENEFITS (rules, policies, eligibility apply) With our generous benefit package, robust professional development opportunities, strong retirement programs, and dedication to service excellence, TAMUK is a truly engaging and rewarding place to work. Insurance: Medical $0 - $30 per month for Employee Only coverage after university contribution ($920 value). Up to 83% of premium covered by the university: Employee and Spouse Employee and Children Employee and Family coverage Dental & Vision Life Insurance, Accidental D&D, Long Term Disability, Flexible Spending Account and Day Care Spending Account On-Campus Wellness Opportunities: TAMUK's Wellness Program is designed to enrich lives through health and wellness programming that is meaningful and impactful. Work Life Solutions: Counseling, Work Life Assistance, Financial Resources, and Legal Resources Tuition Benefits: Employee Tuition Assistance Program Book scholarships Public Service Loan Forgiveness Retirement: Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Plan (ORP), dependent on position Voluntary Tax Deferred Account/Deferred Compensation Plan Employee Leave: 8+ hours of vacation per month 8 hours of sick leave per month 8 hours of paid Birthday leave 12-15 paid holidays per year Additional Information A federal proclamation issued on September 19, 2025, imposes a $100,000 fee on new H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Texas A Texas A&M-Kingsville