Raptor Research Technician

Apply for the Raptor Research Technician role at Boise State University

This is a temporary position with an anticipated duration of 6.5 months. Housing in Boise, Idaho is not provided. Travel and lodging will be provided for field work to distant sites.

Provides technical expertise and field support for a Western-wide Golden Eagle Nest Survey, assisting Boise State University scientific staff with sampling, monitoring, equipment operation, and data collection related to Golden Eagle occupancy, health, disease, and parasite status.

The Raptor Research Center at Boise State University invites interested applicants to apply for the position of Raptor Research Technician. The successful candidate will join a university department dedicated to advancing the understanding of raptors and their environments through cutting‑edge research, innovative education, and community engagement.

Applies skills and knowledge in area of specialization; may adapt procedures, operations, techniques, tools, materials, and/or equipment to meet needs of area of specialization; may work on non‑routine tasks; resolves issues/makes working decisions within area of specialization or responsibility with minimal supervision.

• 60% of the time: apply skills and knowledge in avian field research and raptor monitoring, and adapt procedures, techniques, and equipment as necessary to meet project needs.
• Assist with equipment operation, installation, maintenance, and calibration, including nest cameras.
• Conduct field monitoring and data collection to document golden eagle occupancy, breeding status, and nest success.
• Assist with rappelling into cliff nests to install cameras and assess nest conditions, parasites, and disease.
• Assist with measuring, banding, and health assessments of nestling golden eagles.
• Apply chemical treatments to nest cliffs to control parasites, following established safety protocols.
• Accurately record field data using paper datasheets and electronic notebooks.
• Review images from nest cameras and assist with data processing and quality control.
• Compile and enter data into spreadsheets and databases; assist with preparation of summaries and reports.
• Maintain field and lab equipment and ensure adherence to safety procedures and project protocols.
• Resolve issues and make working decisions within the scope of the responsibilities with minimal supervision.

• 35% of the time: travel to out‑of‑state field sites for extended periods; hike long distances over rough and steep terrain while carrying heavy equipment; drive 4WD vehicles, operate ATVs, and assist with logistics and field coordination; support additional avian surveys or related research activities as needed.

• 5% of the time: perform other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of supervisory and safety practices in field research environments.
• Ability to monitor and follow operational and safety procedures in technical and remote field settings.
• Ability to conduct basic field sampling and accurately record, manage, and review scientific data.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively as part of a field research team.

• Some knowledge of scientific methods.
• Experience conducting basic multi‑media sampling, monitoring, and research; using spreadsheet and word processing software; compiling and collecting data and using computer software to enter data and develop reports, charts or maps.

• Avian field experience (e.g., nest searching, banding, point counts).
• Experience identifying North American raptors in flight.
• Experience locating and monitoring cliff‑nesting raptors.
• Outdoor climbing and/or rappelling experience.
• Wilderness First Aid certification.
• ATV operating experience.
• Google software experience.

Salary range is $17.94 to $19.21 per hour and is commensurate with experience.

• 12 paid holidays and the university is closed between Christmas and New’s (requires use of 3 vacation days).
• Between 12-24 annual paid vacation days for full‑time professional and classified staff depending on position type and years of…