What are the responsibilities and job description for the Wildlife Health Technician position at LUTHER COLLEGE?
The Department of Biology at Luther College is seeking a Wildlife Health Technician to support a project focused on multi-host disease surveillance and the study of gray fox health and diet in Indiana. The Technician will coordinate the collection of carnivore carcasses (e.g., roadkill, legally harvested animals) throughout the year and perform tissue sampling for disease and toxin testing, microbiome analysis, and diet analysis. Position is for a 1-year term, with the possibility of renewal for up to 3 years.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Coordinate the collection of and collect wildlife carcasses throughout the state of Indiana
- Perform necropsies to collect specified tissues from gray foxes and other carnivores for disease and toxin testing, microbiome analysis, and diet analysis
- Prepare, process, and ship samples for laboratory analysis
- Enter, manage, and summarize data
- Assist with data analysis and the preparation of reports
- Prepare and deliver public outreach presentations
- Other duties as assigned
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE and SKILLS:
- Education: High School Diploma required.
- Experience: 1 year hands-on experience in biology, wildlife ecology, veterinary technology or related field OR 1 year of undergraduate coursework in biology, wildlife ecology, veterinary technology, or related field. Preference will be given to applicants with prior experience performing necropsies or relevant laboratory work.
- Driver’s license required
- Skills: Competitive candidates will be expected to:
- Communicate effectively with members of the research team, collaborators at other institutions/agencies, and with the public
- Demonstrate understanding of vertebrate anatomy and proficiency in safely and effectively handling scalpels and other sharp instruments
- Be able to label, organize, and inventory samples
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment and adhere to biosecurity and safety protocols to prevent contamination and/or disease spread
- Use computer programs such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, at a minimum
- Pay attention to detail, instruction, and have good organizational skills
- Perform repetitive tasks for extended periods of time while continuing to be productive
- Be able to work independently on a daily basis
- Have experience and ability to operate 4wd vehicles, a valid driver’s license, and a good driving record.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Technician will be expected to work in or near southern Indiana.
- The position may involve some fieldwork, including travel to various sites for carcass collection. Vehicle will be provided.
- Physical requirements include the ability to lift 50 pounds, stand for extended periods, and work in variable environmental conditions.
- Schedule may vary, but would typically be 40 hours per week. Work weeks are typically daytime Monday through Friday, but may occasionally include evening or weekend work or overnight travel (hotel accommodations provided).
