Careers @ MSU

Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides professional support. Responsibilities may include general business, science, medical, agricultural or other professional support functions. Term: Temps can work two (2) nine (9) month terms with a week break in service in between and at the end of the second term terminate for three (3) months or switch to an on-call. On-Call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve (12) month period.

Unit Position Summary

Up to 3 On Call Research Technicians are needed to help implement field research in support of a project aimed at estimating the density of white-tailed deer in a local area of mid-Michigan (study sites located approximately 1 hr from campus). Technicians will be working in the labs of Drs. Sonja Christensen and Brett DeGregorio and working closely with research partners at the Michigan Dept of Natural Resources.

The Research Technicians will assist with a number of field and data processing components. Technicians will work closely with private landowners and state and township land managers to acquire permission to place cameras and survey deer. Technicians will then be responsible to deploying and maintaining a large number (>100) of game cameras. Technicians will be responsible for downloading, storing, and tagging all images collected from game cameras. Technicians may assist with other density estimation techniques such as through the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles.

Essential Job Functions:

1. We are seeking applicants that are available during mid to late January through May and may be able to accommodate those who are only available for a shorter time frame.

2. Safely navigate to field sites on two-track roads and on foot in rugged terrain using compass and digital maps.

3. Deploy, keep track of, and maintain a large system of motion-triggered game cameras spread across a large area and across numerous properties.

4. Attention to detail in following data collection protocols and handling data.

5. Familiarity and ability to identify the mammals of the Great Lakes Region.

6. Demonstrate an ability to work effectively with others including the public and research cooperators. Clear, professional, and polite communication with private property owners and land managers.

7. Effectively work in an environment that respects and encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Desired Qualifications

1. Progress towards a college or university degree in wildlife ecology or related field.

2. Ability to independently conduct long days of strenuous fieldwork under adverse conditions throughout Michigan, including working in remote areas and difficult terrain (proficiency with map reading, navigating with a compass).

3. Responsible, honest, self-sufficient, ability to lift and carry research materials, equipment, etc. up to 25 lbs.

4. Experience conducting field-based ecological studies..

5. Familiarity and ability to identify the mammals of the Great Lakes region.

6. Commitment to natural resource conservation, and respect for property ownership, scientific credibility, and reliable data.

7. Experience interacting and working collaboratively with natural resource agencies.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Through the departmental website – submit Letter of interest (1 page max), CV, three references in PDF format.

Work Hours

Typically standard 8-5, M-F with some slight variation associated with field work