Organization: State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
Salary: A per diem allowance and housing will be provided. Description: We seek 2 field technicians this summer (June 1 August 31) to assist our moose research program in the Adirondack Park, New York. Moose began recolonizing the Adirondack region in the early 1980s following a 100 year absence, but their status and trends are largely unknown. Researchers from SUNY ESF, the NYSDEC, and our partners at the Wildlife Conservation Society and Cornell University, have initiated programs to estimate the status and trends of moose in the Adirondacks and determine the factors limiting their population. This winter we implemented winter aerial surveys to estimate moose population size and distribution and deployed GPS collars to document spatial patterns. This summer we will extend our research program by conducting ground-based surveys to assess available moose habitat and document browsing patterns. Two field technicians will work with co-PIs Dr. Jacqueline Frair (Associate Professor) and Dr. Paul Schuette (Postdoctoral Associate) of SUNY ESF and NYSDEC biologists to implement these summer surveys. Field Activities: Technicians will be expected to work as a team to gather ecological data that will evaluate moose habitat availability, forage quantity and quality, forage selection, and browsing intensity. Methods will include vegetation sampling of woody plants typical of moose diet at designated sites across the Adirondacks. At each site, technicians will also collect and store biological samples, including vegetation clippings and moose feces, for future laboratory analyses. Technicians will be responsible for accurate data recording in the field, sample storage, and data entry/management. Work Environment: This work will include extensive hiking, often over long-distances and off-trail, with field packs that may up weigh up to 40 lbs. Navigation to field sites will require familiarity with handheld GPS units. Field work will include long days in unpredictable summer weather conditions. Candidates for this position must be energetic, easy-going, and capable of coping with unforeseen challenges that often arise in the field. Rustic summer field housing will be provided in a camper trailer or cabin in the Adirondack Park. Frequent tent camping is expected. Qualifications: - Undergraduate students who are in the final stages of their undergraduate degree (3rd or 4th year) or recent university graduates with an interest in wildlife ecology and conservation - Familiarity with ecological research techniques and data collection procedures - Previous vegetation sampling experience and familiarity with plant identification preferred - Comfortable working in remote field conditions - Valid drivers license and safe driving record - Experience working, camping, or hiking in the backcountry - Able to follow written and verbal instructions to ensure accurate and consistent data collection - Comfortable with computer software including Microsoft Excel - Familiarity with Microsoft Access and ArcGIS would be useful, but is not required Application Details: Please send a 1-2 page letter of interest, CV, and contact information for 3 references as one attachment to Paul Schuette by email: [email protected] by March 31, 2015. Please email with any questions prior to the application deadline.
