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Technician position trapping Thamnophis gigas in California

Posted: January 22nd, 2016, 9:46 am
by Hadar
Position: Biological Science Technician
Agency: USGS Western Ecological Research Center
Location: Dixon, California

Description: The USGS Western Ecological Research Center is seeking to fill multiple positions for Biological Science Technicians to conduct Giant Gartersnake (Thamnophis gigas) field studies at several sites in the Sacramento Valley, California. Primary duties include aquatic trap monitoring and capture for abundance, occupancy, and capture-mark recapture studies, habitat and vegetation surveys, husbandry of captive snakes for radio telemetry surgical implantation/removal, and radio tracking. Summer weather in the Sacramento Valley is sunny and hot, with average daytime temperatures in the 90°s F with many days well over 100°F. Technicians will meet at the Dixon office each day, but
field work is conducted across the Sacramento Valley on private, USFWS, and NGO
properties. Housing is not provided.

Qualifications: B.S. degree in biology, wildlife management, or a related field is preferred. Prior field research experience preferred. Valid driver’s license required. Experience driving large 4x4 trucks on dirt roads preferred. Radio telemetry experience preferred, but not required. Successful applicants must possess the ability to hike moderate distances in waders and paddle a kayak while carrying equipment, often in hot or otherwise inclement weather. Hours can be irregular and long. Must be willing to work weekends. These positions are physically demanding. Must be able to record and maintain data in field notebooks and electronic databases (iPhone). Ability to work independently and as part of a team while
maintaining good communication with the field supervisor is essential. Length of individual appointments will vary between 5-8 months. The expected start date
is mid-March 2016.

Please send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 references in a single document saved with your last name as the file name to [email protected] with “Snake Technician” in the subject line.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience; typically $18.38/hr (GG-05).

Last Date to Apply: 1 February 2015
Contact: Julia Ersan [email protected]