Black Bear Hair Snare Technician

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 16,531 - 24,796; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia’s South Georgia Bear Project (SGBP) seeks motivated technicians for a May–August field season across 11 counties in South Georgia. You’ll build, deploy, and monitor hair snares, enter data, process samples, and maintain gear under hot, humid conditions.

Experience with fieldwork, data entry, and operating four-wheel-drive vehicles is preferred; strong teamwork and professionalism in the field are essential to support bear research and conservation efforts.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational and data-entry skills.
• Willingness to work long hours in challenging field conditions.
• Ability to operate 4x4 vehicles and tow trailers when needed.
• Professional in the field with good communication.

Responsibilities

• Construct, repair, and monitor barbed wire hair snares.
• Deploy hair snares across diverse terrain.
• Enter data into electronic databases and process field samples.
• Maintain and calibrate field equipment.
• Operate 4×4 vehicles and trailer hookups.
• Navigate remote areas using GPS units and field maps.
• Carry 30-lb backpacks and work in hot, humid conditions.
• Work flexible schedules and long hours as needed.

Skills

Organizational skills

Data entry

Fieldwork stamina

Teamwork

Education

Wildlife biology (student)

Tools

GPS devices

Data recording software

Job description

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR via email: [e-mail].

Position Summary

The University of Georgia’s South Georgia Bear Project (SGBP) is looking for highly motivated, detail‑oriented, and self‑sufficient individuals to join the summer hair snare survey crew. Work will take place on a combination of public and private properties across 11 counties in South Georgia (centered around the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge) from early May through early August. The project requires construction, repair, and monitoring of barbed wire hair snares, field data entry, processing of field samples, and equipment maintenance. Technicians will also have the opportunity to assist with bear captures and other field activities when hair snare tasks have been completed.

Responsibilities

• Construct, repair, and monitor barbed wire hair snares.
• Deploy hair snares across diverse terrain.
• Enter data into electronic databases and process field samples.
• Maintain and calibrate field equipment.
• Operate 4×4 vehicles and utility terrain vehicles, including trailer hookups and backing.
• Navigate remote areas using handheld GPS units, field maps, and small boats when necessary.
• Carry 30‑lb backpacks and work in hot, humid, and insect‑heavy conditions.
• Work flexible schedules and long hours as needed.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational and detail‑oriented skills.
• Ability to record and enter field data accurately into electronic databases.
• Willingness to work long hours, unusual schedules, and in challenging conditions.
• Strong communication skills and ability to represent the University professionally in the field.
• Familiarity with operating 4×4 vehicles and pulling trailers, including hooking, driving, and backing.
• Positive attitude and teamwork orientation.
• Currently earning credentials in wildlife biology or related fields is preferred.

Physical Demands

Technicians must be able to carry up to 30‑lb backpacks and work in hot, humid conditions. Driving as required to perform job duties.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation, including a criminal background check and verification of credentials and employment history. A pre‑employment drug test may be required for positions with high‑risk responsibilities. Candidates are also subject to a satisfactory credit check where applicable.

Contact Details

Recruitment Contact: Cody Cox ([e-mail])