"Mt. Graham Biology Research Technician (Temporary)"

Mt. Graham Biology Research Technician (Temporary)

Company:
The University of Arizona

Job Location:
Tucson, 85724

Category:
Laboratory and Research

Type:
Full-Time

Posting Number: req24901

Department: Sch of Nat Resource&Enviro-Res

Location: Main Campus

Address: 1064 E Lowell Street, Tucson, AZ 85721 USA

Position Highlights

Dr. Bret Pasch's Group within the Department of School of Natural Resources and the Environment seeks to hire an individual to assist with various research projects on mammalian ecology and conservation related to the Mt. Graham Biology Programs at The University of Arizona. The successful applicant will perform a variety of lab and field duties in various locations in and around the Pinaleño and White Mountains, AZ. Duties may include, but not limited to: surveys for red squirrels and their food resources, small mammal trapping and handling, acoustic recording and playback, maintenance of field sensors (e.g. temperature loggers, acoustic recording units, cameras), and measuring and dissecting squirrel specimens, identifying ground dwelling arthropods, and organizing data. Some work will be done outdoors in mountainous terrain and possible adverse weather.

This is a temporary position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Trap and survey small mammals, including establishing and maintaining trapping plots requiring knowledge and use of GPS (global positioning system) devices, taking detailed and accurate measurements of animal morphology and tissue samples while ensuring animal welfare, and navigating spatially complex landscapes to ensure accurate data collection.
• Manage field recorders and trail cameras by downloading and organizing data in a database, performing analyses of data to ensure device integrity, using specialized equipment to calibrate microphones to ensure data quality, replace data cards and batteries, troubleshoot equipment malfunctions using detailed checklists, make minor mechanical and electrical repairs of malfunctioning equipment, and maintain logs and records of data and equipment maintenance.
• Participate in quarterly red squirrel surveys with project biologist, including collecting, identifying, and counting seeds and mushrooms, measuring snow depth levels, and taking detailed measurements of squirrel habitat.
• Organize project data (trapping, sound recordings, etc.) with proper documentation and entry into databases.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Attention to detail in collecting and organizing scientific data.
• Experience in identifying and trapping small mammals, especially Arizona species.
• Experience in collecting and organizing field data.
• Experience navigating in field conditions using handheld GPS units.
• Previous experience in biological field research with small mammals.
• Ability to work independently or within a research team.
• Ability to successfully communicate progress, issues, or questions with research team.

Physical Requirements

• Work in adverse weather, including heat or rain.
• Ability to hike in rugged terrain.
• Ability to camp out for consecutive days.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological or environmental sciences.
• Willingness to perform field work/camp in mountain terrain in possible adverse weather conditions.
• At least 2 years college-level coursework in biological or environmental sciences.

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: $16.50 - $20.63

Compensation Type: hourly rate

Grade 3

Career Stream and Level OC2

Job Family Research & Lab

Job Function Research

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Expected End Date: 8/17/2026

Contact Information for Candidates
Bret Pasch, PhD
Associate Professor, Wildlife Conservation and Management
bretpasch@arizona.edu

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter