Dates: Early January – early April 2016 Description: Two field assistants are needed to work with a graduate student and experienced technician on a collaborative project being conducted by researchers at the University of Washington and the National Park Service. We are examining interactions among wolves, coyotes and other mesocarnivores (e.g., foxes, lynx, and marten) in Denali National Park. This study will help to reveal the relative importance of predation, food supply, and climate in the dynamics of mid-sized carnivores. The assistants will work with a graduate student and technician to perform the following duties: scout and establish winter travel routes; conduct snow track surveys by snowmachine and ski; identify and collect carnivore scats; backtrack carnivores on foot or snowshoe; record snow and habitat measurements; deploy cameras at carcasses. The job will require extensive travel on snowmachines, skis, and snowshoes, working in harsh winter conditions, remote backcountry trips, and data entry. Assistants may need to help with other office-based NPS projects during periods when weather prevents fieldwork.
Preferred knowledge, skills and abilities: Previous winter fieldwork experience is required—please do not apply if you have not spent at least one winter season conducting fieldwork. Cross- country skiing proficiency is required. Experience traveling by snowmachine in the far northern backcountry is highly preferred. Assistants need to be able to work safely in winter backcountry conditions, both independently and as part of a team. Ability to keep a positive attitude while working in adverse conditions and performing mundane research tasks is required. Ability to follow a scientific protocol is required. Basic biological knowledge, including experience identifying snow tracks and scats is highly preferred. First aid training is preferred. Compensation: $800/month stipend, free housing, and food for backcountry trips are provided. Some gear such as a parka, snowmachine pants, snowshoes, and skis will be provided. To apply: Please send a cover letter describing why you’re interested in the position and your qualifications, along with a CV and contact information for 3 references IN A SINGLE PDF DOCUMENT to Kaija Klauder at [email protected] by Sept 30, 2015.
