Natural Resources Technician (focus on wild turkey)

JOB OPENING Dates accepting applications: Until 9/23/22 POSITION TITLE: Natural Resources Technician SALARY RANGE: $22.00/hour POSITION TYPE: Full Time LOCATION: Cambridge, Maryland ABOUT US: The Western Maryland Resource Conservation and Development Council (RC&D) Inc. is a non-profit organization in business since 1993 whose mission is to build and sustain resource conservation programs which raise the quality of social, economic, and environmental development in our region. We are involved in projects dealing with environmental restoration, alternative energy, carbon sequestration, research on beneficial uses of fly ash from coal fired power plants, forestry, remediation of acid mine drainage impacts, improvements of water quality in watersheds, and projects addressing conservation and agriculture. CONTEXT OF THE POSITION In coordination with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MD DNR) Wildlife and Heritage Service this position will serve as the lead technician for the Eastern Maryland study site of a multi-state wild turkey research project investigating reproductive ecology and gobbler harvest rates. The technician will work closely with MD DNR staff and help direct the activities of one seasonal technician during the summer months. The incumbent must be available to start in November 2022 (flexible) and will serve as a Natural Resources Technician for the duration of up to a one (1) year term, ending on October 31, 2023 as outlined by the MD DNR funding agreement. However, the position may be extended for up to 3 years depending on performance and funding availability. WORK DUTIES Wild turkey trapping using rocket-nets and walk-in traps Leg-banding, tagging, and disease sampling of captured birds Radio-telemetry Nest, brood, and mortality checks and investigations Vegetation and habitat sampling Data recording and processing Operation and maintenance of tools and equipment used in the above duties including: rocket-nets, ATVs, and 4wd vehicles. Other duties as assigned PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS The minimum qualifications for this position are a B.S. in Wildlife Ecology or related field (or at least 60 hours earned towards degree). Preferred qualifications include training or experience beyond the minimum listed above, including bird capture and tagging, radio-telemetry, game camera deployment, vegetation sampling, and proficiency with ArcGIS and other commonly used software used for data processing. In addition, the following are expected of applicants: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with co-workers, supervisors, and landowners Ability to work outside in rough terrain and tolerate insects and inclement weather Willingness to work early mornings, late nights, and/or weekends if necessary Proficiency in use of computers and applications relevant to conservation is expected (such as MS office suite) Ability to read, interpret, and navigate with maps The ability to work independently A valid driver's license Use of personal vehicle if needed (We will attempt to supply a work vehicle. But if not, federal mileage reimbursement rates will be paid - currently 62.5 cents per mile) US Citizenship A clean criminal record verified by a standard background check with local, state, and national law enforcement agencies. A security clearance is not a requirement Must be willing to relocate or commute to Cambridge, Maryland and surrounding areas FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION Please go to our website at: www.wmrcd.org Please email Resume and Cover letter and 3 professional references to: agray@wmrcd.org The Western Maryland RC&D Council is an equal opportunity provider and employer. All programs and services of the Western Maryland RC&D Council are offered on a non-discriminatory basis, without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital or family status, disability or political belief.