Desert Tortoise Translocation Research Technician - is responsible for
helping to carry out the field research associated with the translocation of
threatened Desert Tortoise in the Mojave Desert outside of Las Vegas,
Nevada. DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS THURSDAY MARCH 14, 2013.
These positions are based out of the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center in
Las Vegas, NOT in San Diego. The responsibilities of the technician include
radio-tracking of translocated and resident tortoises, attachment and
removal of VHF and GPS loggers on tortoises, navigation to burrow sites
using GPS units, burrow evaluation, programming and placement of data
loggers, data input and quality control, performing x-rays and ultrasounds
on female tortoises, thread-tracking and finding nests, and mapping of
tortoise locations.
Representative qualifications include Bachelor's or Masters degree in
biological science or a related field and experience working with
herpetofauna (tortoise experience a plus) and with field research in
general. A successful applicant will have good communication skills;
record-keeping skills; ability to use and maintain research equipment;
ability to use word processing, database, and spreadsheet, ability to work
effectively with others as well as independently in the field; ability to
prepare and make scientific presentations. Applicant must be able/willing
to work any of the 7 days of the week at any time of day. Hours will be
approximately 40 hrs/week.
These positions are short term and will last approximately 8 months from
Mar/April - Oct/Nov 2013. MUST BE ABLE TO START IN LAS VEGAS BY APRIL 1.
Applicant must be willing and able to work in harsh desert conditions with
extremes in weather and rough terrain, and must be willing to camp at the
field site when necessary.
Representative qualifications include:
Knowledge of or a desire to learn the methods and equipment used in
radio-telemetry and other assigned areas of biological research;
communication skills; data and record keeping skills; ability to use word
processing software, spreadsheet systems; experience using and programming
data loggers and GPS loggers; and ability to work effectively alone outdoors
for extended periods of time. Clean driving record, speaking with the
public, following strict scientific protocols, navigation using a GPS and/or
compass, and dealing with flexible scheduling is required. Must be fit and
capable of hiking 6-10 miles per day in rough desert terrain and will
include working outdoors during summer temperatures which regularly exceed
100° F.
Additional desired qualities:
Experience driving 4WD vehicles, scientific writing/presentation,
familiarity with GIS, experience working in the desert and reptile handling.
The technician will participate in all activities related to the
translocation research of desert tortoises including but not limited to:
conduct radio-telemetry searches for tortoises by walking long distances
through challenging desert terrain; attachment and removal of telemetry and
GPS gear; accurately collect, record, and enter into databases information
regarding translocated and resident tortoises; assure radio-telemetry
supplies and equipment are properly maintained; document, file, and maintain
records; prepare data and related reports for presentation and/or
publication; maintain supply inventories; prepare purchase requisitions for
radio-telemetry equipment and supplies; provide verbal information to the
public.
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We can not accept applications or CVs by email, you must apply through the
San Diego Zoo's online system at:
https://www.hrapply.com/sandiegozoo/AppJobView.jsp?link=5209&page=AppJobList.jsp&skimSessionName=com.hrlogix.view.cont.table.cs.req.JobListTable&skimName=requisition.requisition_id&skimNdx=9&op=reset
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