Project Wildlife Technician

JOB SUMMARY

Performs a variety of technical tasks relating to wildlife management and research within the boundaries of the Quinault Indian Reservation (QIR) and the Quinault Indian Nations’ ceded lands. Assists with field data collection for two separate projects: the Olympic Cougar Project and the QIR black-tailed deer monitoring project. Funding is guaranteed for 33 months. Time will be shared between cougar and deer field activities during the first 21 months, with 100% of time on the deer project in the last 12 months.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Collect field data for black-tailed deer monitoring and research.
• Assists with trail camera deployment and retrieval and evaluates camera data.
• Collect field data for cougar monitoring and research.
• Collect data on cougar foraging, fecundity, and social behaviors based on GPS location data (e.g., “cluster” searches).
• Collect elk genetic samples from cougar predation sites.
• Monitors collared animals via radiotelemetry and investigates wildlife mortality events.
• Assist with large animal capture and handling as needed.
• Assist with aerial surveys as needed.
• Ensures accurate and efficient data entry.
• Maintains gear and equipment, stocks/re-stocks capture kit, and tests and repairs cameras and equipment.
• Participates in regular meetings as requested.
• Builds and fosters effective working relationships with others.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One (1) years of experience in wildlife research/management or related area.
• Must obtain and maintain basic first aid and CPR certification.
• Valid driver’s license is required.
• Must be able to successfully pass a background screening / investigation.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

• Traditional forms of government and tribal customs and traditions.
• Practices and methods of scientific data collection, including sampling collection and transportation, and data entry.

Skill in:

• The use of hand tools.
• Off-trail navigation.
• Collecting data and field samples in remote areas, on steep terrain, and in inclement weather conditions.
• Office software and industry-related applications.
• Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Ability to:

• Work independently in the field.
• Conduct field sampling in remote and steep terrain and in inclement weather conditions
• Work alone and off-trail in remote locations.
• Learn the identification of native wildlife species.
• Learn wildlife survey and monitoring procedures.
• Learn the identification of native plant species.
• Learn native plant survey and monitoring procedures.
• Learn and use technical equipment used to navigate and document geographic locations.
• Collect and organize meticulous data.
• Interact and maintain good working relationships with individuals of varying social and cultural backgrounds.
• Analyze situations and adopt appropriate courses of action.
• Make solid decisions and exercise independent judgment.
• Work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell; and lift up to 50 pounds. May occasionally sit; and lift up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision and clarity of vision at long distance. This job requires the physical ability to hike off trail for many miles in inclement weather carrying heavy equipment.

Work Environment:

Work is generally performed outdoors with regular exposure to hazardous materials; high risk / potentially dangerous situations; dust, fumes, airborne particles, and/or allergens; and natural weather conditions. The use of protective clothing, equipment, devices, materials is frequently necessary. Employee will occasionally be exposed to excessive noise; working near hazardous / moving equipment or machinery; and hostile or violent animals. Standing and walking may be on uneven surfaces or unstable ground.  Overnight travel, evening, and/or weekend work is occasionally required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor of Science in wildlife biology or related field.

Demonstrated interest and ability to be in the outdoor environment through experience recreationally hunting, fishing, gathering, hiking, boating, studying or, in other ways, participating and interacting in natural resource activities.

Knowledge/understanding of wilderness navigation, use of maps and compasses.