The University of Waterloo Wildlife and Molecular Ecology Lab’s Western Boreal Forest Waterfowl Nest Predator Project is seeking up to 5 highly motivated waterfowl research technicians to assist with nest searching and monitoring in the western boreal forest of Canada. The overall goal of this project is to understand how industrial development influences waterfowl nest success. The study area is located north of Slave Lake, Alberta.
The project will provide transportation from Edmonton to the study area and housing while in the field. Field housing will be located at a base camp with basic amenities; however, technicians may be required to share accommodations.
Research technician positions will be staffed from approximately 01 May to 15 August 2018; however, exact dates will vary with breeding phenology and one position may be asked to start as early as 15 March 2018. It is essential that technicians are present by the first week of May, so we encourage applicants to only apply if they are confident they will be able to start at this time.
Duties
Assist with waterfowl banding and marking
Use radio-telemetry to locate and monitor waterfowl nests
Nest searching and monitoring (walking up to 15 km/day through wetlands and rough terrain)
Complete habitat assessment (e.g., vegetation identification
Conduct avian surveys (e.g., raptors and corvids)
Install and monitor camera traps
Deploy and monitor artificial nests
Daily data entry
Operate trucks and trailers and off-road vehicles confidently and in a safe manner
Qualifications
Canadian citizenship or appropriate documentation confirming eligibility to work in Canada
Completion of, or enrollment in, a college/university program in wildlife ecology/management, biology, zoology, or similar natural science
Previous field work experience, particularly in remote areas, is a highly regarded asset
Demonstrated high physical endurance and willingness to work long hours and tolerate biting insects
Previous waterfowl and wetlands experience is desired (e.g., waterfowl I.D., wetland plant I.D.)
Experience working in areas with bears and other large carnivores
Experience operating off-road vehicles, trucks, and trailers is highly desired
Valid driver’s license with a clean record
Competent navigating and experience with handheld GPS and compass
Attention to detail and accurate/organized note-taking
Minimum Standard First Aid with CPR-C or equivalent
Excellent interpersonal skills
Compensation
Technicians will be compensated at a rate of $2200 – $2400 CAD per month plus housing for the duration of the study.
How to apply
If you are qualified and interested in working on our team, please e-mail a cover letter, resume or CV, and names of at least two references with the subject line “WBF Tech Application” to: mdyson@uwaterloo.ca.
Applications will be reviewed upon submission and accepted until the positions are filled. Interviews will be conducted in person, phone, or skype starting 15 January 2018. For more information, please contact:
Matt Dyson
mdyson@uwaterloo.ca