The Missouri Fish and Wildlife Research Unit seeks one full time technician to assist with collecting field data as part of a landscape-level ecotoxicology study evaluating effects of neonicotinoid insecticide use on non-target organisms across publicly owned land in Missouri. In addition, the technician will assist with project-related laboratory duties based in Columbia, MO, with an expectation of travel to field sites across the state often requiring overnight stays in on-site field housing.
Applicants should be comfortable working independently and as a part of a team in sometimes adverse field settings as well as working in a biological lab. Field responsibilities will include (but are not limited to) collection of water, soil, and plant samples, aquatic invertebrates, trapping and handling wild bees and butterflies, and monitoring and measuring tree swallow nestlings at study wetlands. Field work is often physically and mentally demanding and can occur in extreme weather conditions. Applicants must have the physical ability to work long hours outdoors, carry field equipment, and wade through water. Laboratory duties primarily consist of identifying and processing aquatic invertebrate samples, conducting mesocosm experiments, data management, preparation of samples for analysis, and assisting with other tasks as needed. The technician will be required to work a flexible schedule (including some weekend work) with an expected 50:50 split between field and lab duties, however scheduling could be highly variable. The successful applicant will ideally start in January 2017, but there is some flexibility in the anticipated start date. The position is full time (40hrs per week) and will run approximately 9 months, but variable schedules should be expected during intensive portions of field seasons. Applicants should have a background in wildlife biology, ecology, or a related field, an associates or bachelor’s degree, and previous field experience. Experience working independently in the field, especially operating four-wheel drive vehicles and ATV’s is desirable but not required. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States and have a valid driver’s license. Vehicles will be supplied for work-related travel. Experience with – or an interest in – aquatic invertebrates, pollinators (bees/butterflies), and/or birds is considered an asset. To apply, please submit (as a single document) a brief cover letter including your earliest availability, your CV/resume, and contact information for three professional references to Kyle Kuechle at [email protected]. Include ‘Missouri Coop Research Technician’ in the subject line of application email Applications will be considered as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled.
