Wildlife Technician

Wildlife Technician

Job : JR

Location: Remote & Madison, Wisconsin

Department: Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology

Employment Type: Temporary (Fixed Term)

Job Profile: Research Technician

We are looking for two Wildlife Technicians to conduct surveys for California spotted owls in Tahoe National Forest. Positions will begin April 13, 2026, and end August 7, 2026, with a required commitment through the entire period. Pay starts at $20.00 per hour depending upon experience. Housing will be provided if technicians agree to reside in university-secured housing, with potential for shared bedrooms.

Technicians will survey for spotted and barred owls, assess reproductive status, locate nest and roost trees, assist in capture/recapture operations and the deployment of radio telemetry/GPS data loggers, monitor GPS tagged owls, manage Autonomous Recording Units (ARUs), care for field equipment, and record observations of other wildlife. Data transcription into computer databases and validation of field data is also expected.

• Collect and monitor data in accordance with established research protocols.
• Assist with literature reviews and report preparation.
• Conduct lab and field tests on materials and samples.
• Review and summarize collected data for reporting and presentations.
• Inspect and maintain equipment, supplies, and facility spaces.

• Experience operating 4-wheel-drive vehicles safely in backcountry and adverse conditions.
• Prior employment as a technician, field assistant, researcher, or similar role involving data collection.

• Experience handling raptors.
• Familiarity with radio telemetry or similar electronic wildlife tracking technologies.
• Ability to navigate using GPS, compass, and topographic maps both on foot and by vehicle.
• Experience with long-distance hiking in steep, challenging terrain.
• Previous work in remote areas.

Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife, Biology or a related field, or equivalent multiple seasons of relevant field experience.

Please submit a cover letter and resume via the UW-Madison website. Refer to requisition JR in Workday Jobs Hub for further instructions.

For any questions, please contact Amy Ducy y.

Compensation: $20 – $25 per hour

Opening Date:
Dec 21, 2025

Closing Date:
Jan 5, 2026

This position contributes directly to wildlife conservation efforts by providing essential data for managing and protecting owl populations and their habitats.