Agency: University of Idaho Location: Idaho Temporary/Seasonal Positions Salary:$2,080 - $2,400 per month Dates of Employment: 4 April 2016 - 15 August 2016 Last Date to Apply: 02/05/2016
Description The Northern Idaho ground squirrel (Urocitellus brunneus) is federally threatened under ESA. We are using field experiments to test the effectiveness of forest treatments (thin-and-burn) on demographic traits of Northern Idaho ground squirrel populations. We capture and mark ground squirrels using PIT tags and ear tags from April through August. We will compare demographic parameters among treatments, including capture-recapture analyses to assess population attributes (e.g., survival rates). We will collect data on vegetation to assess the changes that treatment has on food availability. We will use radio-telemetry to locate hibernacula. We will anesthetize small mammals (Columbian ground squirrels, northern Idaho ground squirrels, and chipmunks) and comb them for fleas as part of a project assessing whether plague is present and affecting northern Idaho ground squirrel survival. Crew leaders will be expected to oversee 2 technicians in the field. They will be responsible for: 1)following field protocols, 2) both animal and technician safety, 3) checking data, 4) maintaining the schedule, and 5) setting up regular communication both within their crew and the project supervisors. Housing will be provided for the applicant during the field season. Field housing may be rustic and may be a camp trailer, a cabin, or a wall tent. Applicants must be willing to live for 5 months without daily phone and email access in fairly rustic accommodations. Field work will include various types of weather conditions (rain, snow, and heat), long hours, odd schedules, and physical work. Minimum Qualifications • Education: B.S. degree in Natural Resources, Ecology, Conservation Biology, Environmental Science, or related field • At least 2 field seasons of prior outdoor field work (1 season must be working with small mammals) • Experience living/camping in remote locations for extended periods • Excellent skills in time and data organization/management • Demonstrated oral and written communication skills • Demonstrated ability to work independently • Must be available for employment from 4 April of 2016 through 15 August 2016 • Must be a US citizen or have a valid US green card to apply **Employment may be contingent upon satisfactory completion of a criminal background and/or driving investigation.** Desirable Qualifications • Previous experience conducting vegetation surveys • Must be self-motivated • Previous experience using anesthesia in a field setting • Previous experience in a supervisory role Apply by sending a cover letter, CV, and the email and phone numbers for at least three references in ONE document (PDF or Word) to Amanda Goldberg (nidgs.technic...@gmail.com). Please write "crew leader" in the subject line of the email. We will review applications as they are received. Job will remain open until 5 Feb or position has been filled.
