Natural Resources Job Board

Wildlife Field Technician and Field Coordinator

Michigan Tech University (State)

Details
Application Deadline:
05/09/2025
Published:
04/02/2025
Starting Date:
after 7/15/2025
Ending Date:
after 12/15/2026
Hours per Week:
30 - 50
Salary:
$16 to $20 per hour
Education Required:
Bachelors
Experience Required:
at least 1 year
Location:
Louisiana
Description
 The Gulf Coast Canine Project is seeking a Wildlife Field Technician to serve as a Project & Field Coordinator for an ongoing research initiative examining the genetics and ecology of regional coyotes in Southwest Louisiana. This position will be responsible for coordinating field operations, engaging with landowners to develop research access, and conducting noninvasive wildlife surveys.

Position Details
  • Location: Southwest Louisiana
  • Supervisor(s): Dr. Kristin Brzeski (Michigan Technological University) & Dr. Dana Morin (Mississippi State University)
  • Compensation: $16-20/hour (commensurate with experience & education) with benefits.
  • Employment Type: Full-time, field-based
  • Duration: 12-18 months, dependent on performance
  • Start Date: Anticipated July 2025, with some flexibility
  • Vehicle & Housing: A field vehicle will be provided, as well as occasional field housing. The employee is responsible for securing local housing. Anticipate large amounts of driving to research sites. 

Primary Responsibilities
  • Field Research & Coordination
    • Lead noninvasive survey efforts, including the deployment and maintenance of camera trap grids and extensive scat collection.
    • Assist coyote trapping efforts and other field operations. 
    • Data management.

  • Landowner Engagement & Site Access
    • Build and maintain relationships with private landowners and other stakeholders. 
    • Secure property access for research activities. 
    • Conduct on-site visits to maintain communication with landowners.

  • Logistics & Communication
    • Coordinate field operations and communicate updates with research team. 
    • Assist in data entry, sample processing, and report preparation as required.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Conservation, Natural Resources, or a related field (or equivalent field experience).
  • A valid driver’s license and the ability to safely operate a 4WD field vehicle in off-road conditions.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in working with private landowners and rural communities.
  • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently in remote settings.
  • Experience conducting field research, particularly with camera traps, noninvasive sampling, and/or carnivore research.

Preferred Qualifications
  • MSc degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Conservation, Natural Resources, or a related field.
  • Previous experience in landowner engagement or securing access for research projects.
  • Experience using GIS software and data analysis.

How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit the following materials:
  1. Cover Letter detailing relevant experience and interest in the position.
  2. Resume/CV highlighting fieldwork experience, project coordination, and communication skills.
  3. Contact Information for 3 References.
 
Applications should be sent to kbrzeski@mtu.edu with the subject line “Wildlife Field Technician: SW Louisiana”.
 
Application Review: Rolling basis until the position is filled.
Contact
Kristin Brzeski
kbrzeski@mtu.edu (preferred contact method)