University of Rhode Island · Rhode Island · posted today
We are seeking applications for one full-time wild turkey technician to work on several fieldwork projects related to the breeding ecology of wild turkeys in Rhode Island. Technicians will help with the capture of wild turkeys in March using several trapping techniques, including rocket netting, net launchers, and walk-in traps. Upon capture, aluminum metal bands will be affixed, as well as the attachment of GPS backpack transmitters. Blood samples will also be taken for an avian disease study. Turkey movements will be tracked via radio telemetry throughout the spring and summer months. Field surveys will be conducted for nest checks, brood monitoring, and habitat use. Technicians will work in collaboration between the Natural Resources Science Department at the University of Rhode Island and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Fish and Wildlife. Technicians will work full-time for 5 months from late February to late July 2027. Some flexibility in start and end dates is possible for well-qualified candidates. Salary is based on experience. Field housing is currently unavailable. State vehicles will be used for fieldwork, but the technician would receive mileage reimbursement at the Rhode Island state rate if circumstances required personal vehicles. Minimum Requirements: · Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, environmental science, biological sciences, or related field. · Available to work afternoon, evening, and early morning hours on weekdays and weekends. · Can do fieldwork alone and as a team during daylight and nighttime hours. · Ability to work long, monotonous fieldwork shifts. · Good physical health to hike and bushwhack 5+ miles per day in difficult terrain (dense brush, biting insects, snow, cold/icy conditions, rain, mud, sand, hot/humid weather). · Can drive 4x4 vehicles in off-road conditions. Preferences: · 1 year or greater of professional fieldwork experience. · Experience trapping and handling gamebirds. · Close attention to detail for data collection. · Experience using radio telemetry. · Excellent oral and written communication skills. · Positive attitude and strong work ethic. · Can use GPS and compass to navigate field sites. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references in a single PDF to (the.uri.turkey.project@gmail.com) by 30 October 2026. Please use “2026 Turkey Tech Application” in the email subject line. Feel free to send questions to Dekka Ducote (dekka.ducote@uri.edu) or Richard Mercer (richardmercer@uri.edu).
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