Science Aide – Wildlife Health Technician
The Wildlife Health Technician supports the Wildlife Health Program, coordinating logistics for statewide chronic wasting disease (CWD) sampling, general sick and dead wildlife response, and other wildlife health surveillance projects as needed.
- Coordinate logistics for statewide chronic wasting disease (CWD) sampling efforts by providing guidance and training to staff and non-agency partners (taxidermists and meat processors), preparing and distributing sampling kits, and receiving and processing over 30,000 samples annually from hunter-harvested, sick, agency culled and other cervids.
- Coordinate logistics of statewide sick and dead wildlife response by responding directly to members of the public, providing guidance to statewide staff, and directing specimen collection and submittal.
- Organize submission of biologic samples by coordinating with diagnostic laboratories, preparing shipments, and receiving and reporting results.
- Enter, correct, summarize, and analyze wildlife health data.
- Collect biologic samples from wildlife for disease testing, including CWD, SARS-CoV-2, avian influenza, and other diseases as needed, and lead or assist in necropsies.
Pay Rate: $15/hour.
To apply:
Please send cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for 3 references via email to Samantha Maywald (Sam.Maywald@mdc.mo.gov). For more information about the position, contact Samantha Maywald (Sam.Maywald@mdc.mo.gov).
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, wildlife biology, biology, or related field; or working towards such a degree
- Accept all responsibilities of the job and assigned tasks
- Demonstrate technical proficiency in areas of responsibility
- Ability to analyze relevant information and solve problems
- Ability to maintain focus and a positive attitude under adversity
- Demonstration of a safety-orientated mindset
- Ability to communicate well with team members, collaborators, and supervisors
- Commitment to representing the Department in a professional manner during encounters with the public
- Valid driver’s license
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience with wildlife health
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office
- Experience with biologic sample collection and handling
- Experience with customer service
- Experience with providing technical training
Special Ability Requirements
Exemption Status/Special Notes
Special Notes:
- The Department of Conservation will only hire Unites States citizens and individuals authorized to work in the United States. All new employees will be required to complete an ‘Employment Eligibility Certification” form (Form I-9) and produce requested documentation after employment.
- Candidates seeking initial employment must submit to a drug screen following an offer of employment.
- Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
- Training will be provided for all aspects of the position.
- Candidates lacking in basic qualifications may be considered based on provided application information, a good attitude, and a passion for wildlife/wildlife health.
- Ideal candidates will be eligible for rehire at the end of the term.
Work Environment:
- Occasionally perform in outdoor weather where hot, cold, wet, and/or humid conditions are possible.
- Work is regularly performed in both a standard office environment and in a necropsy/laboratory type setting.
Physical Abilities:
- Remain in a stationary position 70% of the time.
- Move around the grounds, both inside and outside of buildings.
- Constantly operate a computer and other office productivity machinery.
- Frequently communicate and exchange accurate information.
- Clarity of vision at 20 inches or less and 20 feet or more.
- Three-dimensional vision- ability to judge distance and space relationships.
- Regularly lift up to 5 pounds; correctly lift up to 50 pounds.
- Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function.
Please mail your resume/contact the above person to apply.