Research Technician- Owls and Forest Fires

JOB DESCRIPTION

As global temperatures increase, so have the incidence and severity of wildfires across British Columbia. We aim to study how landscape changes in recovering burned forests influence occupancy by four target owl species— the Great Horned Owl, Long-eared Owl, Flammulated Owl, and Western Screech-owl. The project is based in Kelowna, but sampling will be conducted at several sites throughout the Okanagan Valley. We are seeking an experienced, enthusiastic research technician comfortable with working in the field.

The selected applicant will work in the field and lab with Steffani Singh (M.Sc. student) from April 15-August 15 (4-months), and under Dr Karen Hodges, the Principal Investigator.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Field duties of the research technician include assisting with:

• the set-up and maintenance of autonomous recording units
• collection of owl pellets
• searching for owl nests
• conducting vegetation surveys

In the latter part of the research period, the technician will also help to analyse acoustic data and owl pellets in the lab.

Field work for this position includes driving between multiple sample sites, spending long hours in the forest, and walking/ standing for extended periods of time. Research technicians will be required to record and manage data, communicate effectively with other team members, and practise appropriate safety precautions in the field.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Valid driver’s licence
• Permitted to work in Canada

Preferred:

• Current or recently graduated B.Sc. student
• First aid knowledge/certification
• Experience driving on small logging roads

DETAILS

Location: Okanagan Valley (based in Kelowna). Accommodation is not provided.

Salary: Depends on experience

Application deadline: February 28, 2023

Contact: sasingh1@mail.ubc.ca

TO APPLY

Please email your cover letter and CV to Steffani Singh (sasingh1@mail.ubc.ca) with the title “Owl Research Technician Application 2023”.