This opportunity is curated through the UF TESI Environmental Leaders Network. Opportunities posted through the Network may not be affiliated with the Florida Museum or TESI, but are shared with UF undergraduate students who want to learn more about environmental research, education and outreach, and civic engagement.
Host Organization
UF Range Cattle Research and Education Center, Rangeland Wildlife Ecology Lab
Position Type
Temporary/Seasonal Position
$15/hr, 40hrs/week, one-year appointment
Position description
The Rangeland Wildlife Ecology Lab is seeking applicants for a wildlife technician to help with the following ongoing projects:
- Monitoring mammalian, avian, and anuran biodiversity at several sites across south-central Florida using cameras and acoustic recording units.
- Monitoring invasive tegus using cameras and will be conducting a trapping effort beginning in early 2023.
- Monitoring coyote space use and movement using GPS telemetry.
The technician will…
- assist in the maintenance of remote cameras and autonomous recording units.
- identify species detected in imagery and acoustic data (mammalian, avian, and anuran).
- assist in developing machine learning models to aid in species identification.
- assist in the trapping of invasive tegu.
- have the opportunity to participate in the capture and monitoring of coyotes using GPS telemetry. There might also be other field components associated with this research project, for example, collecting data on cattle and grazing management.
- The Rangeland Wildlife Ecology Lab has a strong focus on extension. Therefore, the successful candidate might participate in extension activities and will have the opportunity to generate extension resources if interested.
Long days and work on weekends may be required during intense data collection campaigns. The technicians will be under the supervision of Dr. Hance Ellington (UF Range Cattle Research and Education Center). The main office of the Rangeland Wildlife Ecology Lab is located in Ona, FL, but field sites are located throughout south-central Florida.
Requirements
Seeking applicants who have:
- A passion for wildlife ecology, with a keenness for birds, mammals, anurans, or invasive species
- An interest, commitment, and aptitude for research in the field in the challenging Florida climate
- Excellent organizational skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Additionally, these skills would be advantageous:
- Experience deploying and monitoring cameras, acoustic recorders, or both
- Ability to identify birds or anurans by sound
- Animal handling experience, especially large reptiles or mammals
- Applicants must also have a valid driver’s license. Technicians will need their own transportation for personal activities.
Start Date
01/02/2024
Deadline to apply
12/15/2023
To learn more and apply:
The Rangeland Wildlife Ecology Lab is committed to increasing the diversity of science and scientists, and they strongly encourage applicants from underrepresented groups in STEM to apply. To apply, please email e.ellington@ufl.edu (with the subject line “Wildlife technician”) a single PDF document that contains:
- a one-page cover letter that describes your background, interest in the position, how you meet the qualifications and any equity considerations you are comfortable sharing
- your CV/Resume
- contact information for three professional references (ordered by the individual’s ability to comment on your qualifications for this position and work ethic).
Review of applications will begin in late October 2023, and the position will remain open until filled.
Contact
Hance Ellington, e.ellington@ufl.edu