Herpetological Field Technicians

Title: Herpetological Field Technicians (3-month and 6-month positions)
Agency: Purdue University, Dept. Forestry and Natural Resources
Location: Yellowwood and Morgan-Monroe State Forests, Indiana

Description: Nine Herpetological Field Technicians are needed to assist in a study
assessing the effects of silvicultural treatments on home range and habitat use of Timber
Rattlesnakes and Eastern Box Turtles in Indiana. Work will be conducted as part of the
Hardwood Ecosystem Experiment (www.fnr.purdue.edu/HEE), a long-term assessment of
ecosystem responses to silvicultural treatments being conducted as a cooperative venture
involving scientists at Purdue University and other partners. Duties will include 1) tracking
rattlesnakes and turtles using radio telemetry and GPS, 2) conducting searches for
rattlesnakes, 3) measuring and recording animal, environmental, and vegetation data, and
4) data entry. Fieldwork will occur approximately from mid-April through mid-October for
6-mo. positions, and mid-May through mid-August for 3-mo positions. Camp-style field
housing and in-field transportation will be provided. Please, send a brief letter of interest,
indicating your dates of availability and position(s) sought, a resume, and contact
information of three references to: macgowan@purdue.edu.

Qualifications: The nature of these positions requires applicants be in excellent physical
condition and have the capability to work independently in adverse environments
including heat, humidity, and biting insects. Experience with radio telemetry, hand-held
GPS, large 4-wheel drive vehicles, maps and orienteering are highly preferred especially
for 6-month position applicants. Only extremely motivated and responsible individuals
who are interested in gaining valuable and unique experience in the field of applied
wildlife ecology should apply. A valid driver's license and good driving record are
required.

Salary:
(3-mo.) $9.00/hr + field housing
(6-mo.) $11.00/hr + field housing

Deadline: 1 March 2009 or until positions are filled.

Contact:

Brian MacGowan
Extension Wildlife Specialist
FNR Extension Co-coordinator
Purdue University
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources
527 Main Street
P. O. Box 265
Brookville, Indiana 47012
765-647-3538
765-547-1011(fax)
macgowan@purdue.edu