NEWMN Technician - Biology

University of North Dakota; Grand Forks (ND); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 49,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Dakota is seeking a field technician to support wildlife monitoring studies. The role involves servicing camera traps at multiple field sites, maintaining equipment, and coordinating with researchers to ensure timely data collection.

Ideal candidates have a BS in wildlife ecology or related field, at least one year of camera-trap experience, a valid driver’s license, and willingness to travel.

Qualifications

• Independent workers must communicate effectively with project partners.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in outdoor environments, including cold temperatures and rugged terrain.
• BS in wildlife ecology or related field required.
• Valid driver’s license required; background check completed.

Responsibilities

• Check and service camera traps at roughly 70 sites.
• Replace batteries, snow stakes, and SD cards; upgrade cameras as needed.
• Travel to field sites for surveys and data collection.
• Email principal investigator and collaborators with site updates.
• Upload camera data to WildTrax database; prep camera gear.

Skills

Independent work

Communication

Problem solving

Outdoor work

Education

BS in wildlife ecology or related field

MS in wildlife ecology/biology or related field

Job description

Salary/Position Classification

• 30.00 hourly, Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime)
• 40 hours per week
• 100% Remote Work Availability: Yes
• Hybrid Work Availability (requires some time on campus): Yes

Purpose of Position

The effort on this study supports ongoing work within UND evaluating the effects of changes in snowpack and habitat on wildlife populations. Being able to check these sites on an annual basis is critical for gathering new information on how snow-dependent and boreal species such as snowshoe hare and lynx will respond to changes in snowpack and forested habitats.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Checking cameras
• Checking existing camera sites (n~70) to change batteries, adding snow stakes, and swapping SD cards.
• Replacing old cameras with new ones.
• Traveling to and from field sites.
• Emailing PI Sirén and other NEWMN collaborators about site surveys.
• Uploading camera data to the WildTrax database platform.
• Prepping camera gear.

Required Competencies

• Capability to work independently and communicate effectively with project partners and collaborators
• Problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a range of outdoor environments, including cold temperatures and in rugged mountainous terrain.

Minimum Requirements

• An undergraduate degree (BS) in wildlife ecology or a related field
• At least 1 year of experience conducting camera trap surveys
• Valid driver's license
• Successful completion of a Criminal History Background Check

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identityand eligibility to work in the US and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.This position does not support visa sponsorship for continued employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• MS degree in wildlife ecology, wildlife biology, or a related field.
• Prior experience working in this area (New Hampshire, Vermont), preferably living within a 1-hour drive to most field sites.
• Advanced experience using camera traps, following detailed protocols, and driving in remote areas.