Position Description & Application
One or more wildlife technician positions are available to assist with the Lake County Forest Preserve District Blanding’s Turtle Recovery Program from May through August 2023 (approximate dates). Technicians will capture Blanding's Turtles using baited hoop traps and track movements via radio-telemetry. Technicians will also assist with the collection of eggs and the documentation of nesting activities at night. Training and all equipment will be provided for all internship activities. This is a unique opportunity to work with the largest population of Blanding’s turtles in Illinois. In accordance with applicable statutes and regulations, NIU is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, physical and mental disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, political affiliation, or any other factor unrelated to professional qualifications, and will comply with all applicable federal and state statutes, regulations and orders pertaining to nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action.
Qualifications: Ideal candidates will be comfortable working long hours often wading in marshes with little shade and may be exposed to biting insects, ticks, and poison ivy. Additional requirements include:
- B.S. in biology, natural resources, environmental studies or related field OR degree in progress with relevant course work
- Valid driver’s license
- Familiarity with or ability to learn regional aquatic species (reptiles, amphibians, fish, crayfish) and ability to safely handle large and potentially aggressive animals (e.g. snapping turtles)
- Willingness to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions across difficult terrain
- Flexible work schedule including the ability to work at night during nesting season (June)
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
- Ability to communicate effectively with forest preserve agency personnel and the public regarding project details
- Adherence to and respect for safety and animal handling protocols
- Physical strength, stamina, and endurance sufficient for full days of strenuous field work
- Enthusiasm for turtle conservation, passion for wildlife conservation in general, positive attitude, and a sense of humor
Essential Job Functions:
- Tracking turtles using radio-telemetry equipment
- Trapping, handling, identifying and collecting data on reptiles (primarily turtles)
- Checking and maintaining hoop traps
- Maintaining accurate data sheets and data entry
- Traveling among field sampling sites and wildlife facilities
- Communicating with a diverse group of teammates and supervisors