Wildlife Monitoring Technician – Birds

Iowa State University is hiring Wildlife Monitoring Technicians (Birds) for fieldwork across multiple locations in Iowa. The role involves conducting surveys on various wildlife species, data entry, and assisting with research efforts. Positions are temporary, full-time from March 24 to October 15, 2024, with a salary of $14-18/hr. Candidates should have a background in wildlife ecology or related fields and must be able to work outdoors in diverse conditions.
• December 9, 2024
Employer: Iowa State University

Location: Multiple Locations in Iowa

Country: United States

Last Date to Apply: 02/10/2025

Open Until Filled: No

Locations: Boone, Indianola, Sioux City, Swisher, Waterloo, IA

Wildlife monitoring technicians, bird specialist (~5) are needed to help with Iowa’s Multiple Species Inventory and Monitoring (MSIM) program. Applicants will work as part of a research and monitoring team to collect information on birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, and mussels on public lands throughout Iowa for the 20th field season of MSIM. Field work for all positions will be conducted throughout the state of Iowa with significant travel during the workday.

Specific job duties include (but are not limited to) bird point count surveys using visual and auditory cues, conducting surveys and handling butterflies, identifying and measuring plant species, data entry, and assisting with other tasks as needed.

Positions are temporary, full-time (maximum of 40 hours/week) starting March 24th and ending October 15th, 2024, with potential for a few summer only (May-Aug) positions. Salary is $14-18/hr dependent upon qualifications and relevant experience. No overtime will be provided. Vehicles will be provided for work-related travel. Housing options vary, but could be available at some locations.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Applicants should be graduated from, currently enrolled in, or on break between semesters of college with a degree in (or pursuing a degree in) wildlife ecology, biology, or a closely related natural resource field.

• Applicants must have the physical ability to work long hours outdoors, walk long distances, carry field equipment in rough terrain, and wade through water.

• Must be able to work independently and as part of a team

• Must be able to work during diverse weather conditions and on weekends, holidays, nights, and evenings as required.

• Must have a strong work ethic and attention to detail

• If needed, must be able to travel overnight for work-related duties

Preferred qualifications:

• Possess a B.S. degree in wildlife ecology, biology or a related field

• Able to identify Midwest bird species by sight and sound

• Experience with at least one additional taxonomic group (mammals, herptiles, fish, mussels, odonates, butterflies, or plants).

How to Apply:

Submit a single document containing a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three references to isu.msim@gmail.com. Cover letter must contain your ideal start date, location(s), and position type (ie. generalist, birder) you are interested in. Applications review will begin after January 1st 2025 with interviews starting in early January and continuing until all positions are filled.

Contact: Emma Buckardt at isu.msim@gmail.com