We are looking for a wildlife research technician to assist with field research on the behavioral ecology and human-wildlife interactions of American alligators in coastal South Carolina. This is a temporary position starting in February 2020 and ending late June-early July 2020. The position will involve wildlife behavior research, VHF tracking surveys, alligator capture, handling and tagging, and interacting with the public and agencies.
Duties will include:
Assisting a graduate student with alligator capture-mark-release using baited traps and hood-and-line methods to include setting up alligator traps, handling and processing alligators, recording data, and assisting with data entry.
Performing alligator behavioral surveys to include following a standardized protocol to conduct visual surveys to understand alligator habituation to humans, recording data, communicating with team members, and assisting with data entry.
Communicating with the public about wildlife ecology and research objectives.
Measuring and recording environmental characteristics in study sites following a standardized sampling protocol.
Driving to and from field sites, maintenance of field equipment, and assistance with other Clemson University-related research as requested.
We are looking for a positive, hard-working, detail-oriented individual who maintains these qualities while working long hours in adverse field conditions (high humidity, heat, cold, rain, biting insects, etc). See below for specific qualification requirements and preferences.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree or equivalent field experience
At least 6 months experience handling wild animals in a field setting
Willingness to work with and handle live alligators
Experience gathering and organizing scientific data
Ability to work independently and in team settings
Ability to complete online training
Willingness to work and live in slightly remote field settings (20-minute drive to grocery stores)
Ability to kneel, sit, or stand for a prolonged period
Ability to walk at least 8 miles in adverse conditions
Ability to lift 50 + lbs
Valid US driver's license
Ability to submit a 3-year driving record
Preferred Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, natural resources, or related field
Research experience in wildlife biology, ecology, animal behavior
Prior experience handling wild adult crocodilians
Experience tracking animals via radio-telemetry
Experience using fishing (preferably surf rods for catching animals.
Willingness and ability to supervise volunteers and student assistants.
Salary
$12 - $15 per hour commensurate with experience. Housing will be provided in Yemassee, South Carolina.
Label files with lastname_firstname_filetype (e.g., Swinney_Dabo_CV). The subject of all email correspondence should be “Alligator Technician Position : Your Name.â€