Crocodylian Technician

The University of Florida, Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Davie, Florida (the Croc Docs) is seeking enthusiastic individuals who will work with scientists from the University of Florida as well as scientists and managers from state and federal agencies. Technician will assist with projects related to research and monitoring of native and invasive reptiles in southern Florida. Available positions require a minimum one-year commitment that may be extended depending on performance and funding. Candidate will be expected to work 40 hours a week, including nights. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is found.

To learn about the Croc Docs and current projects, please visit our website (http://crocdoc.ifas.ufl.edu) or (https://www.facebook.com/TheCrocDocs).

Duties:

Technician will work with scientists and managers from the University of Florida as well as state and federal agencies. Primary duties include spotlight surveys and captures of American alligators and American crocodiles in the Florida Everglades, spectacled caiman removal surveys, boat and vehicle maintenance, and data management. The majority of the fieldwork will be conducted at night, and the candidate will be expected (after training) to captain airboats and motorboats at night in remote locations of the Everglades. Technician will also assist with other projects, including but not limited to radio tracking, live trapping, and camera trapping for Burmese pythons and Argentine black & white tegus, humane euthanasia of removed non-native species following AVMA guidelines, herpetofaunal surveys, and necropsy of select specimens.

Qualifications:

• Possess bachelor’s degree in ecology, biology, wildlife, environmental science, or related field
• Knowledge of aquatic ecosystems
• Excellent communication skills and accurate data recording
• Ability to work independently and with others in a fast-paced environment
• Possession or ability to obtain a valid Florida’s driver’s license
• Experience navigating off-trail with aid of GPS and compass
• Experience working with wild crocodylians preferred but not required
• Experience operating vehicles with 4WD
• Experience driving motorboats required; experience driving airboats preferred
• Maintain work quality and positive attitude in challenging muddy, rocky, remote settings in hot and humid weather with lightning, biting insects, large reptiles, venomous snakes, and poisonous plants

Salary: Commensurate with experience and level of position.

Start date: As soon as ideal candidate(s) are identified and available.