MSU Listserv

Massasauga Rattlesnake Field Technician
Position:
Seasonal Field Technician
Work Week:
40 hrs/week
Duty Station:
East Lansing, Northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan
Duration:
May 1, 2020 through August 31st, 2020 (potential to extend to October 1st, 2020)
Salary:
$12.00/hr + travel and lodging as necessary
Description:
Technician to assist with field data collection on a research collaboration between Michigan State University, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The goal of this project is to investigate impacts of MDOT road maintenance activities (e.g., right-of-way mowing, culvert replacement, herbicide use for vegetation control) on eastern massasauga rattlesnakes (EMR). Primary duties include conducting surveys to assess EMR occupancy at field sties, tagging (capture and handling) EMR individuals with glue-on transmitters, monitoring movements using radio-telemetry, and following decontamination protocols and state and federal regulations.
Technicians will be employed from May 1, 2020 through August 31st, 2020 ($12/hr; 40 hrs/wk) with the potential to extend to October 1st, 2020 based on needs of the project and availability of the technician.
Essential Job Functions:
Work outdoors in inclement conditions that include walking and searching for EMR through marshy ecosystems while dealing with large swarms of insects, poison ivy and sumac, during potentially hot and humid conditions.

  *   Work effectively as part of a team, and respect public and project associates. Comfortable with approaching and conversing with private landowners to gain property access and conduct snake surveys.
  *   Strictly follow safety, decontamination, and animal welfare protocols while conducting research.
  *   Responsible for aiding in data collection by conducting detection surveys following previously established protocols, wildlife capturing and handling, radio-tagging, and behavioral monitoring of EMR.
  *   Must be able to drive safely, read maps, and navigate through forested and wetland environments.
  *   Responsible for following data management and organization protocols. Some data entry and quality control will also be required.
Minimum Qualifications:
Working towards a college degree in wildlife, ecology, conservation biology, biology, or related field with an interest in applied wildlife science and strong interpersonal skills.
Timeline:
Position open until April 15, 2020 or until a suitable candidate is found.  To apply send cover letter identifying why you are interested and qualified for the position, resume, and three references in a single PDF document to:  Jillian Sterman, Applied Forest and Wildlife Ecology Laboratory, Michigan State University. [log in to unmask]
We will not contact references without applicant permission.