Black Bear Technician-short term, no degree required

Technician(s) are needed to support a black bear research project in west Texas. After a 30+ year absence, black bears are starting to recolonize this part of Texas. Researchers with the Borderlands Research Institute at Sul Ross State University have initiated a multi-year study exploring many aspects of the recolonizing population’s ecology.

Technician will work under the direction of the project graduate students and supervisory researchers. Depending on time-of-year, duties may include trapping logistics and animalhandling, operating camera traps, running hair snares, data collection and organization, and sample processing.

Position(s) in the spring and fall and will last for 3 months. The position may require long/early days and weekend work. Applicants are expected to be self-motivated, work well independently as well as in a team, and be able to follow instructions. Applicants are expected to be able to effectively navigate rough terrain both on foot and by vehicle (UTV & 4×4 truck).

Required:

• Progress towards or completion of a bachelor’s degree in wildlife ecology, biology, ecology, or closely related field.
• Ability to lift and carry over 50 pounds and hike over rocky, steep, and rough terrain in remote locations.
• Possess a valid U.S. driver’s license and the ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle through rugged conditions.
• Ability to implement and adhere to established data collection protocols.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate well with coworkers, supervisor, state personnel, and private landowners.
• Ability to maintain a positive and mature attitude.
• Must be able to thrive in remote desert locations with little access to certain amenities.

Preferred:

• Prior experience setting and maintaining hair snares and camera traps.
• Prior experience capturing and collaring bears, or other large carnivores.
• Familiarity with safety in hot/arid climates.
• Experience with chemical immobilization.
• Basic mechanical skills.