In collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Wildlife Research Center, the Camp Fire Program in Wildlife Conservation (www.campfirewildlife.com) at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry is seeking an outstanding individual for a 1-year appointment beginning late summer 2019.
Recent increases in black and turkey vulture populations have resulted in concurrent increases in human-vulture conflicts, including aviation risk. We seek to identify roost site characteristics of sympatric black and turkey vultures in portions of South Carolina to develop predictive spatial models in relation to military aircraft flights. Further, this project aims to estimate vulture diet and carrion distribution at select sites. This project provides an excellent opportunity to explore niche segregation in sympatric vulture species while providing information necessary to reduce human-vulture conflicts. This position will work closely with research scientists from the USDA National Wildlife Research Center’s Ohio Field Station and Wildlife Services program in South Carolina.
Incumbent will be based in South Carolina and conduct field work including, but not limited to: locating black and turkey vulture roosts and estimating number of individuals by species, including use of remote cameras; systematically collecting vulture pellets at roost sites; and estimating carrion abundance in selected areas. Working long or irregular hours and during inclement weather is required. Individual will also ensure accurate entry and management of project data as well as assist with manuscript preparation.
Qualifications
1. BS or MS (preferred) degree in Wildlife Ecology, Wildlife Management, or closely related field, with a strong academic record.
2. Excellent field skills and meticulous with data collection.
3. Knowledge or experience using R and ArcGIS software is a plus.
4. Excellent oral communication skills, including interacting with federal employees and landowners; strong written communication skills.
4. Valid driver’s license and excellent driving record.
5. Ability to work in a team-oriented environment, strong work ethic, and good sense of humor.
Compensation: $38,000 annual salary plus excellent fringe benefits package. The position will be recruited under the Research Foundation at SUNY-ESF.
Submit an electronic application that includes: 1) a cover letter concisely describing your background, experience, research and education interests, and career goals; 2) CV; 3) unofficial copies of college transcripts; and 4) name, position, affiliation, and contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will occur as received. Submit applications to: Dr. Jacob Hill (jehill@esf.edu), Dr. Jerry Belant (jbelant@esf.edu), and Dr. Travis DeVault (travis.l.devault@usda.gov).