Wildlife Technician

Continuous posting; applications accepted until 11:59 PM the day prior to the posted end date. Full-time, regular position.

Compensation: $51,584.00 plus state benefit allowance.

About the role

Under supervision of a wildlife biologist or Senior Biologist, the Wildlife Technician assists in conducting surveys, investigations, and developments to enhance wildlife. Duties vary by assigned program or area.

• Wildlife Management Area (WMA) Technician – Maintain buildings, grounds, and equipment; implement assigned programs; provide information and assistance to users; inspect and coordinate contractor work; assist in managing multiple wildlife areas or programs with multi-management objectives.
• Oklahoma Land Access Program (OLAP) Technician – Set up, inspect, and maintain OLAP Walk-in Areas, equipment, and signage; assist OLAP Biologist in maintaining and expanding the program; monitor and document habitat; execute lease agreements with private landowners.
• Big Game Technician – Conduct animal surveys on foot, UTV, watercraft, or aircraft; gather, analyze, and report biological data; assist or lead wildlife necropsies of cervids; coordinate inter-division staff and volunteers; proficiency in big game identification, biology, and management required. Responsibilities include DCAP and Herd Health Evaluation (may require collection of cervids via firearms).
• Waterfowl / Migratory Bird Technician – Lead western NWCO and other ODWC programs; conduct aerial mid-winter surveys; assist or lead necropsies of migratory birds; gather and report biological data through banding and research; coordinate youth waterfowl hunts; coordinate staff and volunteers. Proficiency in migratory bird identification, biology, diseases, and management required.
• Wetland Technician – Assess, design, bid, and install/repair wetland infrastructure; provide onsite direction for contracted or Departmental work; travel statewide to oversee projects; coordinate biologists, technicians, and contractors; manage program budgeting and purchases; lead eastern NWCO programs; operate heavy equipment. Proficiency in wetlands management required.

Responsibilities

• Post boundary and highway signs to denote Wildlife Management Area lands.
• Assist in wildlife surveys and inventories.
• Provide information to sportsmen and the general public.
• Maintain buildings, grounds, and equipment (carpentry, masonry, painting, litter removal, welding, mowing, repairs).
• Maintain and repair roads; construct and maintain fences.
• Develop and prepare food plots and perform farming operations.
• Monitor performance of contract work and agreements.
• Supervise small groups of hourly employees as needed.
• Make purchases according to state guidelines and accounting policy.
• Maintain accurate daily records and prepare required reports.
• Perform other periodic duties as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements

• Operate boats, motor vehicles, lawn mowers, UTVs/ATVs, and tractors with various attachments.
• Operate and use firearms, cutting torches, and welding equipment.
• Lift and carry a minimum of 50 pounds for 100 yards; push/pull 50 pounds to hook up trailers and load equipment.
• Walk and jog over rough terrain for extended periods.
• Swim proficiently.
• Work alone in remote areas.
• Endure extreme outdoor weather conditions.
• Work extended hours, weekends, and overnight travel.
• Handle live and dead wild animals, including field dressing wild game.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships; work independently; interact professionally with the public and other agencies.
• Communicate clearly in public speaking and writing.
• Operate small handheld equipment, field traps, survey gear, and lab equipment.
• Conduct day and night audio/visual surveys.

Qualifications

Education: Associate degree or minimum two years of college coursework in Wildlife Management or a closely related field. Four years of experience as a Wildlife Conservation Technician may substitute for education. A copy of your transcript must be attached to your application.

Experience: One year of related experience. A total of five years of experience may substitute for education. A completed bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management with an emphasis in Wildlife Management or a related field may substitute for the experience requirement.

Skills

• Thorough knowledge of medium to heavy contractual and farming equipment.
• Competence in using small hand tools and carpentry tools.
• Knowledge of wildlife survey techniques and agriculture practices.
• Good judgment in analyzing situations and making decisions.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with employees and the public.
• Proficiency in computers and various software applications.