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Company

Department of Wildlife, California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt

Location

Central Valley, California

Salary

$20.00 per hour, 40 hours per week

Job Posted On: February 10, 2025

Description: The Cal Poly Humboldt Dept of Wildlife is seeking one seasonal research technician to assist a Master’s graduate student with fieldwork studying Swainson’s hawk (Buteo swainsoni) behavioral responses to the active construction of the California high-speed railway throughout the Central Valley, California. The project will involve tagging adult Swainson’s hawks with GPS loggers at nest sites and monitoring behavior including foraging/hunting, brooding, flushing, and any other potential stress responses. Depending on the progress of the season, there may be opportunities to assist with trapping and tagging hawks. Candidates with an interest in wildlife handling and research are encouraged to apply. Data will be used to examine how nesting pairs of Swainson’s hawks utilize their habitat in the wake of ongoing disturbance. 

The position runs from the beginning of April/mid-May to mid-June 2025. Flexible start and end dates can be accommodated. Field housing will be provided in AirBnBs and/or hotels throughout the study range (between Merced and Bakersfield, CA). The technician will have the opportunity to work closely with the graduate student to understand how/if Swainson’s hawks modify their behavioral patterns within active construction zones and to quantify their home ranges in these highly disturbed spaces.

Responsibilities: The primary responsibilities for this position will include monitoring Swainson’s hawk nests, documenting behavioral changes, mapping nest sites and home ranges, assisting in data collection and management, and supporting additional field or research tasks as they arise to meet project needs.

Technicians are expected to take clear, detailed notes in the field, enter data, and assist with the transport and maintenance of field equipment. Candidates should have a positive attitude with a strong interest in avian research and habitat ecology.

Qualifications: Must be comfortable working independently in active construction zones

  • Ability to actively listen and promptly implement any updates or changes to safety protocols, taking direction from the graduate student and/or the on-site CalTrans personnel as required
  • Must be willing to wear all required personal protective equipment, as required
  • Ability to take clear, detailed notes and record data in the field
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including possible early mornings
  • Ability to sit/stand for extended periods of time, patiently observing birds 
  • Capable of working in inclement weather and hot conditions
  • Be in good physical condition, hike over uneven terrain, and carry heavy field equipment (up to 50lbs)
  • Ability to receive direction from and communicate clearly with the graduate student
  • Must hold a valid driver’s license
  • Comfortably operate a four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicle
  • Ability to remain organized and adhere to a schedule, with flexibility for changes

How To Apply: Candidates should express interest in the position with a cover letter, a resume or CV, and contact information for three references in a single PDF document. Email the application materials to Ayla Zolwik at akm110@humboldt.edu using the subject line lastname_SWHA RESEARCH TECH APPLICANT.

Applications accepted now (February 2025); review of applicants is on a rolling basis, and interviews will begin 17 February 2025. The position will remain open until filled. 

Contact: If you have any questions, please reach out to Ayla Zolwik at akm110@humboldt.edu for more information. 

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