We seek one research assistant to participate in population and behavioral studies on the endangered Mt. Graham red squirrel in the Pinaleño Mountains in southeastern Arizona with the research group of John L. Koprowski (www.ag.arizona.edu/~squirrel). This isolated population of squirrels has been monitored since 1989 and we are currently conducting intensive telemetric studies to learn more about habitat use, demographics, and reproductive success. This job provides a great opportunity to hone wildlife data collection skills and contribute to a long-term research project on these endangered mammals in their unique "sky island" habitat. More information on the Mt. Graham red squirrel and the project can be found at http://www.ag.arizona.edu/research/redsquirrel/.
This is a temporary field position to begin as soon as possible and lasting for approximately 5 months. Work consists primarily of radio telemetry and habitat measurement in the scenic Pinaleño Mountains of southeastern Arizona. The project website provides more information on this subspecies and the field locale. The successful applicant is expected to conduct radio telemetry to investigate the space use of endangered Mt. Graham red squirrels, collect measurements of habitat characteristics, perform behavioral observations, and work within our project databases. Assisting with live trapping of red squirrels and introduced Abert's squirrels may also be possible. The position requires periods of up to 10 days housed in the field without return to Tucson, necessitating excellent teamwork. Housing in the field and transportation from Tucson to the study site will be provided, however we cannot provide housing while in Tucson during days off. Fieldwork is conducted both in pairs and alone under all weather conditions from summer heat and monsoon rains to winter snow at elevations above 9000 ft., frequently on high slopes. Independence and a tenacious work ethic are required. Successful applicants should be willing and able to spend entire days hiking or outdoors in variable conditions and have weather-appropriate gear and clothing (snowshoes are provided). Temperatures on Mount Graham can range from -10 - 7 degrees C in January up to 14 - 29 degrees C in July. Finally, the successful applicant will be required to drive University vehicles. Duties and Responsibilities: -Collection of radio telemetry data on small mammals -Collection of standard habitat classification variables -Hiking in rugged terrain at high elevations, often in harsh conditions like deep snow or heavy rains -Database work: enter and proof data -Participation in other related field research projects as needed -Familiarity with use of map and compass -Attendance and participation in regular staff meetings -Maintain and safeguard personally assigned and project equipment -Assist in routine maintenance of biology research camp facilities -Participate in day-to-day operations to include: purchasing, errands, etc. -Completion of necessary University safety courses and certifications Qualifications: Minimum Qualifications: -Three years of related laboratory/research, field research, technical maintenance or archaeological experience, OR; -Any equivalent combination of experience, training and/or education approved by Human Resources -A valid state driver’s license during period of employment -Legally approved to work in the U.S. Preferred Qualifications: In addition to above: -Bachelor’s degree in wildlife science, biology or related discipline -Experience with radio telemetry under boreal forest field conditions -Ability to manage and navigate a PC-based computer database (MS Access) -Experience with backcountry travel and hiking, especially in montane environments -Experience with behavioral observation of small mammals under natural conditions -Experience with live trapping and marking of small mammals -Experience with habitat analyses, especially circular plot sampling in forested environments -Experience in field studies with threatened/endangered species -Experience working alone and with groups in a field-based setting -Experience driving on mountain roads, putting on tire chains, and snowshoeing is a plus Only online applications will be considered. Please go to: https://www.uacareertrack.com and search for job # 42461 Research/Laboratory Assistant to apply. Salary will be $9.49 per hour to start and the position will be open until filled. For more information, please contact: Melissa Merrick, Wildlife Biologist Senior mmerr...@email.arizona.edu Mount Graham Biology Programs University of Arizona School of Natural Resources Biological Sciences Building East, Rm.325 Tucson, AZ 85721 Phone: 520-624-6439 Fax: 520-740-0143
