Black Bear Technician

About This Role

Support a black bear research project in west Texas as a Black Bear Technician. Conduct field work, data collection, and assist with black bear capture and collaring.

Responsibilities

• Assist with trapping logistics and animal handling
• Run camera traps
• Run hair snares
• Collect and organize data
• Process samples

Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry over 50 pounds
• Ability to hike over rocky, steep, and rough terrain in remote locations
• Valid U.S. driver’s license
• Ability to safely drive a 4WD vehicle through rugged conditions
• Ability to implement and adhere to established data collection protocols
• Demonstrated ability to communicate well with coworkers, supervisor, state personnel, and private landowners
• Ability to maintain a positive and mature attitude
• Ability to thrive in remote desert locations with little access to certain amenities
• Ability to effectively navigate rough terrain both on foot and by vehicle (UTV & 4×4 truck)

Qualifications

• Progress towards or completion of a bachelor’s degree in wildlife ecology, biology, ecology, or closely related field.

Nice to Have

• Prior experience setting and maintaining hair snares and camera traps
• Prior experience capturing and collaring bears, or other large carnivores
• Familiarity with safety in hot/arid climates
• Experience with chemical immobilization
• Basic mechanical skills