Camera Trap Field Technician – 1 volunteer

Project: Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Predator-Prey Dynamics

Position: Camera Trapping Volunteer, $500/mo as per-diem, housing provided

Organization: University of Washington, School of Environmental and Forest Sciences

Location: Eastern Washington, primarily based near Winthrop, WA and Chewelah, WA

Approximate start and end dates (flexible):  05/20/2019 – 08/31/2019

Last date to apply: 04/05/2019

Description

The Quantitative Ecology Lab at the University of Washington is seeking a dedicated individual to assist with research studying spatial and temporal patterns of predator-prey dynamics in eastern Washington. This is part of a larger collaborative project studying the influences of wolf recolonization on ungulate species in Washington. The technician will assist a graduate student with the goal of collecting photo-capture data on ungulates and large carnivores in this region. Technician duties will include deploying and maintaining camera traps across two study areas, interacting with private landowners and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife agency personnel, data entry, and image processing. A typical day may include driving throughout the study area, hiking off-trail in steep terrain, and/or car-camping. This is a great opportunity to gain experience with camera trapping, conduct applied wildlife research, and develop general field work skills. $500/month as per-diem will be provided.

Qualifications

No camera trapping experience required. On-the-job training will be provided, although priority will be given to those with prior outdoor and orienteering experience. Applicants must be able to drive safely on primitive (4wd) roads which requires a valid driver’s license recognized by the State of Washington, hike 8 – 12 miles a day while carrying camera trapping equipment (up to ~30 lbs) in adverse weather conditions and rough terrain, and be comfortable camping for extended periods of time with limited access to amenities, internet, or cell coverage. Applicants must also be organized, able to follow strict protocols, record detailed data, and have strong communication skills. Above all else, the applicant must be hardworking, flexible to occasional changes in the schedule, independent, good-natured, and love working outdoors.

To apply, please email a resume (including contact information for three references) and a brief cover letter as a single PDF file with the applicant’s name in the title to Sarah Bassing (sb89@uw.edu).  The cover letter should detail your interest in this position and how your outdoor skills and field work experience specifically meet the above qualifications. Applications must be received by April 5th, 2019 for full consideration. More information about the larger Washington Predator-Prey Project can be found at https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpredatorpreyproject.weebly.com%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C541255c4f3e74fd81e3808d6ac4d44b9%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636885845320848900&sdata=mZAfK1sekgI54cnSGIulL9X3Lbx4rakfZ7ES7K%2Bl8L0%3D&reserved=0