Researcher 1 - Wildlife Biologist

The Forester Lab is hiring up to two full-time researchers to assist in field work and sample processing for the Twin Cities Coyote and Fox Project. Duties include (but are not limited to) setting traps for the capture of coyotes and red foxes in urban and rural environments, checking traps daily while traps are operational, assisting in animal immobilization and handling, conducting trail surveys for the collection of coyote and red fox scat, assisting in the processing of biological samples, data entry, and assisting in deployment of trail cameras for behavioral experiments. Qualifications will be a B.S. in ecology, wildlife conservation or similar degree, at least one year of experience working in wildlife, and willingness to work independently. The researcher will be required to drive vehicles to and from field sites for research purposes.

Perform structured research-related work assignments. Identifies problems and relevant issues in straightforward situations, assesses potential responses using standard procedures and makes sound decisions accordingly. Receives instruction, guidance and direction from others.

Actions tend to facilitate work outcomes that meet general reporting requirements, internal checks and balances, regulatory guidelines or similar results that promote the welfare of students, faculty and staff and safeguard the institution by providing necessary inputs to others in the form of information or finished materials. This search is for up to two positions, with each position possibly being hired for 6 to 9 months, depending on funding.

Job Duties:
Field work (50%)

• Assist in setting, monitoring, and maintaining traplines for foxes, coyotes, and small mammals in and around the Twin Cities and St. Cloud.
• Conduct trail surveys to collect coyote and fox scat.
• Track collared foxes and coyotes using VHF radio telemetry
• Deploy and maintain trail cameras
• Conduct basic field necropsies and collect biological samples after mortality events
• Conduct vegetation surveys surrounding denning sites
• Organize and maintain field equipment

Data entry (40%)

• Organize and maintain spreadsheets of animal-level data; upload data to MoveBank.
• Identify and count animals captured on trail cameras.
• Code animal behaviors recorded in trail camera video.

Assist with Public Outreach (10 %)

• Assist with training and supervision of undergraduate workers and volunteers
• Develop educational materials, as appropriate
  

Required

• BA/BS or a combination of related education and work experience to equal four years; applied knowledge and skill to a recurring task or activity with emphasis typically on precision and timeliness of execution.
• Experience tracking collared wildlife with VHF telemetry equipment and trapping small mammals and carnivores.
• Ability to work independently in the field navigating over rough terrain in inclement weather.
• A valid driver's license.

Preferred

• Experience trapping coyotes and foxes.
• Experience with vegetation sampling.
• Experience collecting biological samples and entering data.
• Familiarity with using GIS software.
• Familiarity with deploying and maintaining trail camera grids.
  

Pay Range: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment Category: 100% Appointment (If job description above does not specify appointment or expected weekly hours, assume a 100% appointment.)

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

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