Wolf Abundance Project Camera Technician
Michigan State University (State)
Details
Application Deadline:
05/09/2025
Published:
04/23/2025
Starting Date:
after 7/9/2025
Ending Date:
after 10/8/2025
Hours per Week:
40
Salary:
starting at $15 per hour
Education Required:
Bachelors
Experience Required:
none
Location:
Upper Peninsula (Michigan)
Description
Michigan State University is hiring 1 technician for a project collaborating with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources establishing new methods to estimate Upper Peninsula, MI wolf abundance. Estimating abundance of populations over large distances requires intensive personnel hours, resources, and funding. Remote camera deployments provide an efficient method to monitor populations for extended periods. This project aims to evaluate different camera-based abundance estimation models and establish methods for long-term monitoring of Michigan's wolf population. Technicians will revisit ~1,300 cameras deployed in 2023 and 2024 to collect/replace SD cards and batteries and will deploy new cameras as needed while adhering to strict protocols. Qualified applicants will have experience navigating to remote locations using GPS mapping systems, driving dirt roads using 4x4 trucks, and have meticulous attention to detail (in deployments and data entry). Position will begin July 9, 2025 and last until early/mid October.
Required qualifications include:
Required qualifications include:
- Ability to work alone for extended periods and in a team-oriented environment with project lead, other field technicians, and external collaborators.
- Excellent navigation skills using GPS devices such as Garmin GPS units, mobile devices (ArcGIS Field Maps & OnX), and physical maps.
- Experience safely navigating remote, dirt roads using 4x4 trucks.
- Adherence to strict deployment protocols and meticulous detail when collecting physical data and entering data into ArcGIS Survey123 and/or Excel.
Desired qualifications include:
- B.S. degree in Wildlife Ecology, Conservation Biology, or closely related field.
- Remote camera experience (knowledge of settings & setup).
- Ability to camp in remote areas with little to no cell service for up to 8 days at a time.
Interested applicants should apply by 1) sending a cover letter, CV, and 3 references to nelso976@msu.edu and 2) submitting their application through the MSU careers portal. Applicants that do not follow both of these procedures will not be considered. The deadline for applications is May 9, 2025 7:00am. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
Contact
Matt Nelson
nelso976@msu.edu (preferred contact method)