University of Florida · Florida · posted yesterday
Description We are seeking applicants for a wildlife technician to assist with a study of coyote population and spatial ecology on Sanibel Island, Florida. The project will examine coyote abundance, movement, habitat use, and family-group structure to inform wildlife management and conservation, particularly concerns about coyote predation on sea turtle nests. This project is led by the University of Florida’s Rangeland Wildlife Ecology Lab in collaboration with USDA APHIS Wildlife Services’ National Wildlife Research Center and the City of Sanibel, with coordination with local conservation partners. The technician will have a central role in fieldwork, including: • Assisting with coyote capture using foothold traps and cable restraints, including scouting capture locations, preparing and maintaining sets, and checking traps. • Assisting with animal handling, GPS collar deployment, biological sample collection, and capture records under approved research protocols. • Conducting systematic scat surveys and collecting, labeling, and storing samples for genetic analyses. • Deploying and maintaining remote cameras and reviewing images to document coyote activity, group composition, denning, and reproduction. • Assisting with monitoring collared coyotes and recovering collars. • Maintaining accurate field records, organizing data, and caring for field equipment. Prior hands-on carnivore trapping experience is required, and experience trapping coyotes is strongly preferred. The successful applicant should be comfortable contributing to capture operations while following project protocols and prioritizing animal welfare, public safety, and the avoidance of non-target captures. Fieldwork will take place across conservation lands, beaches, and developed areas on Sanibel Island. The technician must be comfortable working in hot, humid conditions, walking substantial distances over uneven terrain and sand, and adapting to weather and changing field conditions. Early mornings, evening work, and weekends will be required during intensive capture and survey periods. The technician will work under the supervision of Dr. Hance Ellington. The lab’s main office is at the UF/IFAS Range Cattle Research and Education Center in Ona, Florida, with the technician based near Sanibel during intensive field campaigns. Compensation will be $15–$20/hour, depending on experience. Qualifications We seek applicants who have: • Hands-on experience trapping carnivores, including setting, checking, and maintaining traps. • A strong interest in carnivore ecology and applied wildlife conservation. • Experience collecting field data and maintaining accurate, organized records. • The ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and contribute effectively to a field team. • Professional communication skills and the ability to interact respectfully with residents, landowners, and project partners. • A commitment to animal welfare and safe field practices. • A valid driver’s license. The following experience would be advantageous: • Coyote capture, particularly with foothold traps or cable restraints. • Wildlife handling, GPS collar deployment, and VHF telemetry. • Identifying carnivore tracks, scat, and other sign. • Collecting and handling biological samples for genetic analyses. • Deploying remote cameras and managing wildlife imagery. • Using handheld GPS units and mapping software. • Working in coastal habitats or on projects involving sea turtles, shorebirds, or human–wildlife interactions. To apply Please email a single PDF document to Dr. Hance Ellington at e.ellington@ufl.edu, with the subject line “Sanibel coyote technician.” Include: • A one-page cover letter describing your interest, relevant qualifications, and availability. Please specifically describe your carnivore trapping experience, including species captured, trap types used, duration of experience, and your responsibilities during capture operations. • Your CV or résumé. • Contact information for three professional references, preferably including someone who can comment directly on your trapping experience and fieldwork. Applications will be reviewed as received, and the position will remain open until filled.
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