Urban Mesocarnivore Technician

About the role

The Young lab is seeking an Urban Mesocarnivore Technician to (1) capture and fit GPS collars on coyotes, bobcats, and red foxes, (2) assist staff with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) in maintaining a camera trap grid in Wichita, Kansas, and (3) monitor mesocarnivores fitted with GPS collars. This is part of a collaborative research project between Dr. Jon Beckmann and Matt Peek with KDWP and Dr. Julie Young at Utah State University (USU). Two USU graduate students are working on the project but will be on campus for class during the fall semester. The USU team and KDWP staff in Wichita will assist the technician with fieldwork when possible, and the veterinary staff at Sedgwick Zoo will assist with all capture and collaring activities. The position is located in Wichita, KS. The successful candidate is expected to work at least 3 months, preferably 6 or more. Candidates from underrepresented groups in STEM are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Setting and maintaining live traps to capture and fit mesocarnivores with GPS collars
• Maintaining a camera trap grid that runs four times each year
• Monitoring previously collared animals
• Working and communicating with collaborators, partner organizations, and members of the public
• Performing other job‑related tasks as needed
• Working outdoors in variable weather conditions, potentially exposed to extreme cold or heat for extended periods
• Performing considerable physical activity, including lifting, pushing, or pulling objects up to 75 pounds and standing/walking for extended periods across rugged or uneven terrain
• Handling or interacting with wildlife and exposure to animals, insects, vegetation, dust, odors, and other environmental conditions associated with outdoor wildlife work

Qualifications

• Experience live trapping mesocarnivores
• Experience with camera traps
• Valid driver’s license to perform essential job responsibilities (e.g., driving university vehicles and transporting materials)
• Undergraduate degree or relevant educational experience in ecology, biology, wildlife, zoology, or a related field

Skills

• Willingness to work long and odd hours in the field
• Ability to communicate well with diverse stakeholders
• Interest in urban ecology

Pay

$28/hour

Schedule

20‑25 hours per week, with occasional weeks up to 40 hours.