Job Classification: Hourly Assistant - Research Program Participant
Title: Wildlife Technician - Wetlands and Waterbirds (Grant supported, hourly position)
Agency: Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute, University of Illinois
Location: Forbes Biological Station, Havana, IL
Description: The Forbes Biological Station is seeking two research technicians to assist with multiple studies assessing wetland and waterfowl ecology along the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. These positions will include a mix of field and lab work. Primary field duties will include automated recording unit (ARU) monitoring/maintenance and waterfowl trapping. Successful candidates will be required to climb ~10ft using climbing sticks to check ARUs in trees and structures. Primary lab duties will include ARU data processing and soil core sample processing. Other research opportunities include participating in marking waterfowl with GSM transmitters, vegetation and waterfowl surveys; sampling waterfowl for avian influenza; vegetation identification and cover-mapping of wetland basins; safe operation of small and large boats, ATVs, and 4-wheel drive trucks; data entry and management; maintenance of equipment and facilities; and other duties as assigned.
Qualifications: Candidates possessing a Bachelors degree in biological sciences, wildlife ecology, or related field are preferred. Applicants must be willing to work at a laboratory bench and with microscopes for extended hours, as well as carry heavy equipment and samples (≤ 50 lbs) while wading through wetlands for sample collection. Applicants who are enthusiastic, personable, organized, and possess a strong work ethic are encouraged to apply. Candidates will be required to work independently and as part of a team.
Salary: $16/hour; 40 hours/week, plus opportunities for paid overtime. Housing is available on site at a reasonable rate.
Duration: Two (2) technicians will begin by August 21. The positions are funded through December 31, 2023 with potential for one candidate to continue into spring 2024.
Application: Review of applications will begin immediately and will be accepted until the positions are filled. Electronic applications required.
To apply, please send the following in a single document: cover letter, resume/cv, and names and contact information of three references to: osbornjm@illinois.edu Be sure to reference Winter 2023 Technician in the subject line and specify a starting date in the Cover Letter.
Direct technical questions to Joshua Osborn at osbornjm@illinois.edu.
The University of Illinois is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer.