"Deer Research Technician"

Job Details

Posting Number: G/R26671P

Working Title: Deer Research Technician

Department: Warnell-Sch Forestry & Nat Res

About the University of Georgia: Since our founding in 1785, the University of Georgia has operated as Georgia’s oldest, most comprehensive, and most diversified institution of higher education (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 235 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly formed School of Medicine.

Employment Type: Employee

Anticipated Start Date: 08/01/2024

Posting Date: 07/29/2024

Open Until Filled: Yes

Location of Vacancy: Athens Area

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Animal husbandry and management (40% of time)
• Data collection (40% of time)
• Data entry and office duties (20% of time)

Classification Title: Student Assistant

FLSA: Non-Exempt

FTE: 0.5

Position Summary: Technicians will assist a master’s student with data collection this fall. Data collection will be conducted with captive deer at the Whitehall Deer Research Facility in Athens, GA. The research project investigates the interaction between white-tailed deer and residential fences to reduce deer-fence conflicts. More specifically, data collected during this position will attempt to describe the jumping abilities of white-tailed deer from a biomechanical perspective. Technicians will assist the graduate student with jumping trials in which deer will attempt to cross vertical barriers while being recorded by an array of high-speed cameras. Primary responsibilities will include moving deer throughout the facility, assisting the master’s student with data collection, and any necessary preparation/concluding activities. Technicians are expected to work outdoors for several hours, which may include early mornings or late evenings.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification: Progress towards a bachelor of science degree in wildlife ecology and management or a closely related field.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Previous experience moving and handling large mammals is preferred, particularly white-tailed deer. Equal consideration will be given to those who demonstrate a willingness to learn, a positive attitude, effective communication skills, and a strong work ethic.

Physical Demands: Must be able to walk across uneven ground, work in close proximity to large animals, and must be able to lift 50 pounds. Driving.