We are seeking one seasonal field technician from October 2024 through February 2025 to assist in wetland field research. Our USDA funded project is focused on understanding the effects of waterbirds and fish in flooded rice fields in California’s central valley. We will be completing a large-scale experiment on a farm in Sutter County to understand the relationship between waterbirds and introduced fish (predation, competition, or facilitation) and quantify the ecosystem services birds and/or fish provide rice growers. The primary duties of the field technician will include field site preparation, PIT tagging fish, field collection of pelagic and benthic invertebrates, field sampling fish, data entry, and other related tasks as assigned. Field training will be provided to help the technician become familiar with established protocols and methodologies. A field vehicle will be provided.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Previous experience conducting field research
• Be able to tolerate working in inclement weather and wading in muddy wetland conditions.
• Comfortable working independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to follow standardized protocols and carefully record and enter data.
• University vehicle will be provided to drive between work locations. Driver’s license and clean driving record required.
• Professional, clear communication skills to coordinate with supervisor.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with PIT tagging.
• Prior experience with aquatic invertebrate sampling methods.

Duration: 22 weeks from October 2024 through February 2025.

Wage: Approximately $21.47-$23.17 per hour depending on experience. This is a full-time (40 hours per week), limited-term appointment through the University of California, Davis. Housing will not be provided, and the successful applicant will be expected to relocate to the study region for the duration of the appointment.

The Karp and Rypel Labs are committed to maintaining a supportive, inclusive, and safe scientific environment in the laboratory and the field. Applicants will receive field safety standards and training. Applicants from historically marginalized communities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000376/NondiscrimAffirmAct