Oklahoma State University · Oklahoma · posted today
Description: Oklahoma State University is hiring full-time, temporary field technicians to assist with field research on elk population demography and ecology in southeastern Oklahoma. Preferred start (5/3/2027) and end (8/15/2027) may be flexible and applicants with conflicts requiring slightly delayed starts or early departures are encouraged to apply. Technicians will assist with an elk research study on an Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation-owned Wildlife Management Area and surrounding private lands in southeastern Oklahoma. The primary duties will consist of live-capturing and collaring elk calves in the summer, non-invasive genetic sample collection, vegetation sampling, operation of telemetry equipment, conducting mortality investigations, and maintaining equipment. Additional tasks may be required as needed. The selected applicants should anticipate and be comfortable with shared (potentially co-ed) living conditions in a small cabin (or similar accommodations); shared lodging will be provided in the Clayton, OK area. Housing may consist of rooms with bunk beds, as well as shared living spaces such as kitchen, bathrooms, and living room. Successful applicants will be responsible for their own food (obtained in town). Wi-Fi will be accessible at the fieldhouse, although, applicants should be comfortable with limited connectivity (i.e., internet or cellular service). Minimum Qualifications: • Applicants must have completed or be working towards completion of a bachelor’s degree in ecology, wildlife biology, or a related field. • Applicants should be detail-oriented and possess organization skills to perform data entry and other computer-based work. • Applicants must be able to live and work effectively, peacefully, and patiently in close quarters with other technicians and under adverse field conditions. • Applicants must be good communicators and critical thinkers, follow project protocols, work independently, and interact with private landowners respectfully. • Applicants must be capable of navigating off trail in potentially rough, steep terrain using GPS. • Applicants should be able to lift and carry 50 pounds and able to work in hot, humid field conditions where encounters with snakes, biting insects, and poisonous plants are possible. • Applicants must possess a valid US driver’s license (no restrictions). • Applicants must desire the ability to learn safe handling practices quickly and take direction from graduate student leads. Desired Qualifications: • Plant identification skills • Experience handling live animals (e.g., ungulate neonates) • Experience conducting field necropsies • Experience operating telemetry equipment • Experience driving 4WD pickup trucks and/or utility terrain vehicles (UTV’s) in field conditions (e.g., small, narrow, and potentially muddy two-track roads) We encourage all interested people to apply despite preconceived notions of their own experience as it relates to this project’s objectives. How to apply: Please combine the following into a single PDF document containing a (1) single-page cover letter that details why you are interested in this position, your most relevant experiences and skills, and your professional goals/aspirations; (2) a Curriculum Vitae; and (3) contact information (i.e., name, affiliation, email, and phone number) for three references. Save the PDF file as “Lastname_Firstname_OSUelk_2027” (e.g., “Lovasik_Kevin_OSUelk _2027”) and email the PDF file as an attachment to kevin.lovasik@okstate.edu with the email subject titled “Elk Tech Position 2027”. Applications will be reviewed as they are received and candidates may be selected before the closing date of March 1, 2027. If you require or desire further information, please contact Kevin Lovasik at kevin.lovasik@okstate.edu Additional Information: Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to a criminal background check. Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions.
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