University of Florida · Florida · posted today
Want to study wildlife movements in the shadow of rocket launches? The University of Florida seeks three motivated field technicians for a research project examining how rocket launches influence the movements, behavior, survival, and population dynamics of the federally threatened southeastern beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus niveiventris) at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Led by Dr. Robert McCleery (Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation) and Dr. Chris Dutton (Department of Biology), the project combines capture–mark–recapture, manual radio telemetry, automated telemetry networks, and camera monitoring. Technicians will gain experience with traditional small-mammal field methods and emerging wildlife-tracking technologies in a distinctive coastal research setting. Position Responsibilities • Conduct small-mammal trapping surveys, including setting and checking traps, handling animals, recording measurements, and following established field protocols. • Vegetation surveys • Assist with conventional radio telemetry to locate and monitor tagged animals. • Install, inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot automated radio-telemetry receivers and other field equipment. • Sort, classify, and organize camera-trap photographs and associated records. • Enter, review, and manage trapping, telemetry, and camera-trap data with careful attention to accuracy and consistency. • Work as part of a field team to maintain trapping grids, organize equipment, and support day-to-day project logistics. Field Schedule and Conditions This is an intensive field position. Trapping schedules require starting work before dawn to check traps and returning in the late afternoon to open and set traps. Fieldwork may involve split schedules, early mornings, occasional weekends, and adjustments around launch operations. Technicians must be comfortable working outdoors in warm, humid coastal conditions and on sandy terrain. Qualifications Required: A bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field (or equivalent relevant field experience); careful data-recording skills; ability to work independently and collaboratively; and willingness to accommodate the field schedule and working conditions described above. Preferred: Experience with small-mammal live trapping and handling, radio telemetry, automated monitoring equipment, camera-trap image processing, field equipment maintenance, or ecological data management. Training will be provided in project-specific procedures. Position Details and How to Apply The positions are full-time hourly appointments associated with a research project funded for two years, with continuation subject to satisfactory performance and project needs. Pay is $20.00 per hour ($41,600 per year at 40 hours per week), plus applicable University of Florida benefits. Dormitory-style housing will be provided in the Titusville/Cape Canaveral area. Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States and able to maintain that authorization without employer sponsorship. Employment is also subject to applicable site-access requirements. Send a CV, a brief letter describing relevant field experience and interests, and contact information for three professional references to: Dr. Robert McCleery Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation University of Florida mccleery.bm@ifas.ufl.edu www.themccleerylab.org Review of applications will begin November 30, 2026, and continue until all three positions are filled.
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