Waterfowl Technician - Louisiana

Title:  Waterfowl Technician
Agency:  Louisiana State University
Location: Southwest Louisiana
Category:  Season (mid-February to end-July 2022)
Salary:  $1800/month, housing provided
Last date to apply:  01/10/2022
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Description:
The Ringelman Lab at Louisiana State University is seeking one full-time technician to assist with a Mottled Duck nest predator study in southwest Louisiana from mid-February to mid-July 2022. The project objective is to use artificial nests and trail cameras to identify important Mottled Duck nest predators and estimate relative nest survival rates in Mottled Duck nesting habitats. Sites are located in the marshes, coastal prairies, and pasture lands in southwest Louisiana and will require long drives.

The selected candidate will work closely with the LSU graduate student, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and volunteers on both private and public lands. Many sites are accessed via levee roads and require the use of 4WD and ATVs, or are accessed via airboats in the marshes. The selected candidate will construct artificial duck nests, identify vegetation, collect vegetation density measurements using a robel pole, deploy and manage trail cameras, and identify wildlife species. An attention to detail and strong decision-making and organization skills are required for this position.

The technician MUST be willing to work in hot weather in shared habitat with American alligators, venomous snakes, and biting insects. This position is physically intensive and requires carrying heavy equipment (up to 50 lbs) through the marsh and rugged terrain. We are seeking applicants with a positive attitude, attention to detail, strong organization skills, the ability to follow data collection protocols, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Background in wildlife ecology and prior field work experience.
• Experience inputting data and managing Excel databases.
• Experience using a GPS and compass.
• A valid US driver’s license with a safe driving record and experience driving 4WD, towing trailers, and operating ATVs. Must be able to change flat tires and troubleshoot getting unstuck.
• Ability to communicate effectively with state employees, volunteers, and private landowners.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• A Bachelor’s degree in wildlife, natural resource science, or environmental sciences.
• Experience operating and managing trail cameras and photo databases.
• Experience working with nesting waterfowl; plant and wildlife identification skills.
• Experience using GIS and map reading.
• Experience working in southwest Louisiana.
• Experience living remotely.

To Apply: Please submit your application as a single PDF via email to Alex Dopkin (adopki1@lsu.edu) and include “Mottled Duck Technician – LSU” in the subject of your email. Applications may be considered on a rolling basis.
Please include:
1. Cover letter (one page) describing relevant past experiences and your interest in this position.
2. Resume/CV.
3. Contact information for three professional references.

Feel free to reach out via email with any questions about the project that you may have.