Wildlife Technician

The Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center is seeking an enthusiastic individual for hire. 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 live trapping and camera trapping for Argentine Black & White Tegus (30%), radio tracking and camera trapping of Burmese pythons (20%), herpetofaunal surveys (20%), necropsy of select specimens (20%), and American Alligator and Crocodile data collection (10%). This opportunity will provide necessary training and exposure to arduous conditions of southern Florida and hands-on experience with native and invasive exotic reptiles. This position has an intensive and demanding field component and also includes humane euthanasia of removed non-native species following AVMA guidelines. Additional duties include data entry and other tasks as assigned. Depending on availability, Technician may have occasional opportunities to participate in other research projects.

Qualifications:

• Possess bachelor’s degree in ecology, biology, wildlife, environmental science, or related field
• Maintain work quality and positive attitude in challenging, muddy, rocky, remote settings in hot and humid weather with biting insects, alligators, and venomous snakes
• Excellent communication skills and accurate data recording are essential
• 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
• Working knowledge of South Florida ecosystems and wildlife, experience operating vehicles with 4WD and manual transmissions, native wildlife identification, and wilderness first aid/first aid/CPR training is helpful but not required

Salary: Commensurate with experience and level of position.

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