Blanding's Turtle Field Technician Employer: Northern Illinois University Job Type: Seasonal, Temporary, Internship Location: Lake County, Illinois
Job Description: A wildlife technician position is available to assist the Lake County Forest Preserve District with its Blanding's Turtle Recovery Program from May through July 2016 (approximate dates). Technicians will capture Blanding's Turtles using baited hoop traps and track movements via radio-telemetry. Technicians will also assist with the collection of eggs, the care for headstarted juvenile turtles and the documentation of nesting activities at night. Training and all equipment will be provided for all internship activities. Qualifications: Ideal candidates will be comfortable working long hours often wading in marshes with little shade and may be exposed to biting insects, ticks, and poison ivy. Additional requirements include: - B.S. in biology, natural resources, environmental studies or related field OR degree in progress with relevant course work - Valid driver's license - Familiarity or ability to learn regional aquatic species (reptiles, fish, crayfish) and ability to safely handle large and potentially aggressive animals (e.g. snapping turtles) - Willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions across difficult terrain - Flexible work schedule including the ability to work at night during nesting season (June) - Ability to work independently and as part of a team - Ability to communicate effectively with forest preserve agency personnel and the public regarding project details - Adherence to safety and animal handling protocols Essential Job functions: - Trapping, handling, identifying and collecting data on reptiles (primarily turtles). - Tracking turtles using radio-telemetry equipment - Traveling among field sampling sites and wildlife facilities - Checking and maintaining hoop traps - Maintaining accurate data sheets - Data entry Salary: $10/hr, 37.5 hr per week; optional housing in Lake County is available at $100/month; vehicle or mileage reimbursement is provided How to Apply: Interested parties should submit a cover letter addressing qualifications listed above, resume/CV, and contact information of 3 references to Dr. Nicholas Barber at nbar...@niu.edu Application Deadline: 15 March 2016 -- Nicholas A. Barber Assistant Professor Dept. of Biological Sciences Northern Illinois University 815-753-4215 nbar...@niu.edu<mailto:nbar...@niu.edu>
