Wildlife Field Technician, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine

at  The University of Calgary

Description
The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine invites applications for a Wildlife Field Technician. This Full-time Fixed Term position is for approximately 24 months (based on length of grant funding), with the possibility of extension.
This position reports to the Principal Investigator.
The field technician will provide field support for the implementation of a large project aiming to deploy GPS collars on wild pigs.
Summary of Key Responsibilities (job functions include but are not limited to):

GPS collar deployment on wild pigs:

• Coordination with Alberta Wild Boar Control Program trappers
• Reactive deployment of all equipment when wild pig capture occur
• Coordination with UCVM team and other local actors for prompt reaction to collaring opportunity
• Contribution to animal capture, safe anesthesia and handling of wild pigs according to protocols and standard operating procedures
• Appropriate processing of biological samples following protocol and biosafety requirements
• Ability to strictly adhere to safety protocols is a requirement
• Willingness to be located in Central Alberta in study area, and travel and participate in field work away from home for extended periods of time and with unpredictable schedules

Field data collection:

• Frequent checking of GPS collar function
• Downloading and archiving of GPS collar data following best practices
• Coordinate with Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation staff for monitoring collared pig group membership
• Maintain high standards in data collection and adherence to field protocols
• Field work locations are within Central Alberta and ability to adapt to variable field conditions is required

Data management:

• Ensure appropriate and careful data recording for all aspects of the project
• Coordinate with team members to maintain appropriate inventory of laboratory samples
• Support graduate students in data entry, and facilitate sharing of data
• Identify data consistency issues

Reporting:

• Contribute to reporting as needed
• Maintain inventory of field equipment and communicate with team to ensure readiness for captures

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS:

• MSc degree in biology, ecology, disease ecology, or related field
• Field experience with wildlife research
• Experience with large mammal GPS collaring
• Experience with camera trap deployment and management
• Experience with data collection and data management
• Data analysis and visualization skills would be an asset but not a requirement
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• A valid driver’s license
  Application Deadline: October 31, 2024
  We would like to thank all applicants in advance for submitting their resumes. Please note, only those candidates chosen to continue on through the selection process will be contacted.
  This position is part of the AUPE bargaining unit, and falls under the Technical Job Family, Phase 1.
  For a listing of all management and staff opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Management and Staff Careers website.

Please refer the Job description for details