Wildlife Field Technician — Camera Trap Survey (Winter)

Conservation Corps; Iowa; On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

The Iowa DNR’s Wildlife Research Section seeks a Temporary Worker for a northeast Iowa camera-trap survey, Feb–Apr. Responsibilities include landowner outreach, field camera setup, bait prep, and data curation across private and public lands under supervision of furbearer program staff.

Qualifications emphasize enrollment or recent graduation in Wildlife Ecology/Biology, a valid driver's license, and the ability to work independently in challenging winter conditions.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in or recently graduated from Wildlife Ecology/Biology or related field.
• Must have a valid motor vehicle operator’s license and be at least 18.
• Able to work unsupervised and outdoors in winter conditions.
• Willing to work on private and public lands with travel required.

Responsibilities

• Contact landowners in-person to seek permission for placing cameras.
• Prepare and organize trail cameras for field use.
• Prepare bait and lure for trail cameras.
• Establish multiple camera trap setups following survey protocol.
• Maintain batteries, SD cards, and data at sites during surveys.
• Compile trail cam photos using current techniques.
• Communicate with wildlife and forestry staff in the survey area.
• Operate equipment such as 4x4 trucks, ATVs, trailers and basic hand-tools.

Skills

Valid driver's license

Independent worker

Winter field conditions

Communication skills

Education

Wildlife Ecology/Biology degree or related field

Tools

ATV operation

4x4 vehicle operation

Trail camera setup

Basic hand tools

Job description

The Iowa DNR’s Wildlife Research Section seeks a Temporary Worker for a northeast Iowa camera-trap survey, Feb–Apr. Responsibilities include landowner outreach, field camera setup, bait prep, and data curation across private and public lands under supervision of furbearer program staff.

Qualifications emphasize enrollment or recent graduation in Wildlife Ecology/Biology, a valid driver's license, and the ability to work independently in challenging winter conditions.