Biologist

The Biologist role is primarily focused on the conservation of the endangered Sonoran Pronghorn. Biologists will travel to one of four remote observation points on the Barry M. Goldwater Range before sunrise, where they will hike a small mountain to observe pronghorn locations using telemetry and optic methods. This is accomplished over a two-hour window, during which it is imperative that individuals manage their time effectively. Field work is communicated and coordinated with the rest of the biology team and range personnel using handheld radios.

This position will also monitor other wildlife populations, particularly birds with the intention of reducing bird strike hazards for aircraft maneuvering. Many job functions are performed on an active bombing range while carrying up to 35 pounds on rugged terrain, and in variable weather where exposure to extreme environmental conditions and venomous animals are possible.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Perform daily Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) surveys, often from trucks.
• Conduct wildlife hazard inspection of property, and mitigation of wildlife activity around the airfield and surrounding areas.
• Maintain required records and supporting documentation pertaining to wildlife management activities, including databases.
• Use ArcGIS to input pronghorn sightings and create graphics to demonstrate range utilization.
• Create monthly and annual reports.
• Remove carrion from range-adjacent roadways.
• Sort photos from game cameras.
• Maintain field vehicles, including washing schedule and seasonal inspections.
• Perform environmental compliance monitoring, particularly related to stormwater.
• Daily work schedule of operation involves early morning hours and will vary based on sunrise times.
• Work under the direction of the Lead Biologist.
• Other duties may be assigned as necessary.
• Will occasionally be required to work weekends.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This job has no supervisory responsibilities. This position has the authority to carry out assigned duties and tasks.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

• Bird, mammal, and herptile identification skills, particularly in the US Southwest.
• Intermediate computer skills, specifically using Microsoft Office Suite; ability to learn additional computer skills or software programs. Knowledge of GIS or R are helpful, but not required.
• Environmental compliance knowledge.
• Operation of a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
• Experience using telemetry.
• Strong observation and research abilities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively and cooperatively with all levels of management and staff.
• Strong decision analysis and problem-solving skills, as well as ability to draw conclusions and justify decisions. Must be able to communicate issues to management and regulatory agencies.
• Technical writing.
• Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, scientific papers, and technical reports.
• Ability to read and understand a topographical map and use a compass.
• Effective oral and technical written communication skills to clearly communicate complex information to others.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to evaluate data and consider decision impact across multiple areas.
• Strong professional customer service skills, including active listening, prompt service and follow-up.
• Must be trustworthy – will routinely work independently and must be able to stay on task and complete assignments with little to no supervision.
• Ability to multi-task and effectively manage time in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to enter data accurately into databases.
• Ability to learn and understand corporate policies and procedures and how they relate to Tunista’s goals.
• Ability to follow a process, detect unobvious facts and issues, and exercise resourcefulness in resolving problems.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Zoology, Ecology or related field
• A minimum of one year field research experience
• Must have valid Arizona driver license or the ability to obtain one
• Ability to pass a drug and background screening
• Must be able to obtain a government security clearance

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
In addition to the hourly wage mentioned above, the company provides $7.41/hour for health and welfare so employees can elect to use it for (unsubsidized) health insurance through the company, or from the healthcare marketplace. Other benefits include $2.40/hour contribution towards employee’s 401K, 80 hours of PTO, and 11 paid holidays. 

PREFERENCE STATEMENT
Preference will be given to Calista shareholders and their descendants and to spouses of Calista shareholders, and to shareholders of other corporations created pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, in accordance with Title 43 U.S. Code 1626(g).

EEO STATEMENT
Additionally, it is our policy to select, place, train and promote the most qualified individuals based upon relevant factors such as work quality, attitude and experience, so as to provide equal employment opportunity for all employees in compliance with applicable local, state and federal laws and without regard to non-work related factors such as race, color, religion/creed, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship, genetic information, or other protected status. When applicable, our policy of non-discrimination applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, transfer, promotion, placement, layoff, compensation, termination, reduction in force and benefits.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
It is Calista and Subsidiaries’ business philosophy and practice to provide reasonable accommodations, according to applicable state and federal laws, to all qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities.

The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general content and requirements for performance of this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements.

This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter the scope of work within the framework of this job description at any time without prior notice.