Ruffed Grouse Field Technician

Georgia 4-H; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Field housing

Work vehicle

Job summary

University of Georgia in Athens invites applications for two to three Field Technicians to survey Ruffed Grouse across North Georgia. Primary duties include standard roadside surveys, searching for drumming logs for genetic samples, and monitoring Automated Recording Units.

Daily data entry is required. Very early mornings and travel to field sites are expected; field housing and a work vehicle are provided.

Qualifications

• A strong work ethic and positive attitude.
• An interest in birds and conservation.
• Strong observational and listening skills.
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Responsibilities

• Perform bird point count surveys.
• Operate ARUs and song meters.
• Search for grouse fecal samples.
• Enter data daily.
• Travel to field sites and set up ARUs.

Skills

Bird Identification

Bird survey techniques

Navigational skills

Education

B.S. in Wildlife Ecology or related field

Job description

Posting Number

G/R34814P

Working Title

Ruffed Grouse Field Technician

Department

Warnell-Research

About the University of Georgia

Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university (https://www.uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full‑time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

Employment Type

Employee

Anticipated Start Date

03/01/2027

Posting Date

09/23/2026

Open Until Filled

Yes

Location of Vacancy

Athens Area

EOO Statement

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 ([e-mail]).

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Duties/Responsibilities

Bird point count surveys

Percentage of time

60

Duties/Responsibilities

Searching for drumming logs; collecting fecal samples

Percentage of time

15

Duties/Responsibilities

Data entry

Percentage of time

10

Duties/Responsibilities

Traveling to field sites

Percentage of time

10

Duties/Responsibilities

Operating and setting up song meters

Percentage of time

5

Classification Title

Temporary Technical Paraprofessional

FLSA

Non-Exempt

FTE

1.00

Position Summary

We are seeking two or three field technicians to survey Ruffed Grouse across North Georgia. Primary duties will be to conduct standard roadside grouse surveys, and search for grouse drumming logs to obtain samples for genetic analysis. Technicians will also be responsible for set‑up, take‑down, and monitoring of Automated Recording Units (ARUs). Technicians will enter data on a daily basis. Daily working hours will vary depending on distance to survey points each morning, but expect very early mornings to early/mid‑afternoon work schedules. Field housing and a work vehicle will be provided. Primary Duties: 1) Perform bird point count surveys 2) Operate song meters 3) Search for grouse fecal samples 4) Enter data 5) Traveling to field sites

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position

Education and Experience required: Will have: A strong work ethic and positive attitude An interest in birds and conservation A strong observational and listening skills A the ability to navigate using a GPS unit and Google Maps A the ability to follow directions and work independently A Good comfort level navigating off‑road locations independently A Strong organizational and planning skills A B.S. in Wildlife Ecology or related field A a valid driver’s license and good driving record. Preference will be given to applicants with experience conducting forest bird surveys, leading crews, and working independently in the field.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Bird Identification Bird survey techniques Navigational skills

Physical Demands

Will endure long workdays beginning well before sunrise, drive long distances, hike through dense forests, navigate steep/uneven terrain, and work in hot, humid conditions with ticks, chiggers, poison ivy, and the occasional rattlesnake/copperhead, while sometimes carrying up to 25lbs. of field equipment.

Is this a Position of Trust?

No

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?

No

Does this position require a P-Card?

No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?

No

Is driving a requirement of this position?

Yes

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?

No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)

No

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Contact Details

For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.

Recruitment Contact Name

Clayton Delancey

Recruitment Contact Email

[e-mail]