Gopher Tortoise Survey - Seasonal Technician

University of Georgia; Kentucky; On-site; USD 22,041 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

The University of Georgia is hiring a Seasonal Technician for a gopher tortoise survey. The position involves fieldwork, data management, and habitat initiatives over 8–9 months. Candidates must have relevant education or experience.

This temporary position offers a competitive salary of $16–20/hour, without benefits. Ideal candidates will enjoy teamwork in challenging outdoor conditions and possess strong organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Requires an undergraduate degree in Biology, Ecology, or Wildlife Management or 3 years relevant experience.
• Basic knowledge of ArcGIS and data management software.
• Field experience with surveying for Gopherus spp. is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct line transects to document gopher tortoise burrow locations.
• Assist with data management and processing in Excel.
• Support habitat management initiatives.

Skills

Field research experience

Organizational skills

Effective communication

Data management software

Education

Undergraduate degree in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Management

Tools

ArcGIS

Terraflex (Trimble GPS units)

Job description

Gopher Tortoise Survey - Seasonal Technician

Responsibilities

• Line transects to document the location and activity status of gopher tortoise burrows.
• Camera scoping of gopher tortoise and mammal burrows, along with suitable underground refugia for small vertebrate species.
• Visual encounter surveys for priority plant and wildlife species.
• Data management and processing in Excel, Terraflex (Trimble GPS units), and ArcGIS Pro.
• Assist with field data collection and processing; support research on post-translocation status of gopher tortoises.
• Support development and implementation of habitat management and restoration initiatives.
• Conduct occasional UAV/drones surveys in recipient habitats.
• Assist with reports, publications, and grant‑funded projects as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, or related field OR 3 years relevant experience in field research and wildlife.
• Field experience with surveying for Gopherus spp., including transect surveys and burrow scoping.
• Basic knowledge of ArcGIS, statistical analysis, and data management software.
• Experience driving 4WD trucks on challenging unpaved roads.
• Knowledge of southeastern habitats and upland sandhills plant and animal communities.
• Strong organizational skills and commitment to high‑quality performance.
• Effective communication and teamwork in a field‑based setting.
• Flexibility with scheduling and resilience to variable field conditions.

Physical Demands

• Good physical condition and patience required for prolonged field work.
• Long days on buggy terrain, with potential for hot/humid weather in Georgia winters.
• Variable habitat conditions ranging from dense forests to open agricultural fields, typical of sandhills vegetation.
• Walking approximately 10 mi/day, carrying up to 10 lb of equipment, with continuous bending and squatting during burrow scoping.
• Handling of wild and captive animals, including venomous snakes, with adherence to safety protocols.
• Driving long distances to field sites and overnight stays in hotels during deployments.

Employment Details

Position Type: Seasonal Technician
Schedule: 8‑9 months (August 2026–April 2027), typically 40 hours/week, Monday–Friday with occasional weekend or 10‑hour shifts. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s holidays granted as unpaid leave. No housing allowance; employees responsible for accommodations, but lodging and per diem for overnight deployments will be compensated. Salary: $16‑20 per hour, based on experience. Benefits: No health, retirement, or paid leave benefits; temporary position as a federal temporary placement.

Equal Opportunity Employment

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.

Contact

Recruitment Contact: Kimberly Andrews
Email: [e-mail]
Phone: (contact not specified)