This is a 12-month limited term position which may be extended to 24 months and/or become permanent.
Multiple positions may become available.
This position is posted in the following counties: Riverside and San Bernandino. You only need to apply to one county.
Are you looking to be part of a dynamic and diverse team working to study mule deer populations in the mountains and deserts of southern California? The Department of Fish and Wildlife's Inland Deserts Region(R6) is seeking a motivated Wildlife Biologist to assist in capture, population estimation, and monitoring of mule deer. Duties include: Data Collection – Mule Deer: Collect field data, which may include using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and GPS to navigate to remote areas and use radio telemetry equipment to locate collared animals. Implement surveys and assessments to monitor mule deer populations over two field seasons throughout the Region. Collect fDNA along pellet transects, and other biological samples from sample points, and manage trail camera arrays following detailed protocols. Coordinate activities with Region 6 Wildlife South Program and Wildlife Branch biologists. Perform lead person duties including scheduling for temporary field crews assisting with the project. Wildlife Captures- Mule Deer: Assist regional staff with deer captures occurring during the 2 year period, collaring, mortality investigations, and collar recovery. Capture, handle, restrain, and/or transport wild animals in the field using various capture techniques (e.g., live trap, chemical immobilization). Stay current with evolving methods, scientific literature, and information on animal welfare, wildlife health, and disease monitoring methods. Data Management: Download and process camera trap images and enter other data collected. Coordinate, compile, organize, and maintain databases and spreadsheets until the completion of the project. Oversee quality control of data collected in the field. Use basic statistical techniques and GIS to assist with data analysis and progress reporting. Support the development of central repositories for biological and scientific data with a focus on collar data, trail camera photos, and biological samples.
In order to be eligible for this position, you must either be transfer eligible or take and pass the following exam:
Environmental Scientist Examination (ca.gov)
Working Conditions
Must be willing to work long, irregular hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends. Ability to use a computer keyboard in a sitting and/or standing position several hours a day. Ability to lift heavy and irregular items up to 40 lbs. Ability to backpack into wilderness areas and camp. Will interact with regional and branch staff, and members of the public via e-mail, telephone, and in-person. Must attend occasional meetings. Ability to wear a uniform, as appropriate. Field activities may involve strenuous physical activity in variable weather conditions. Possession of valid driver license required. Occasional travel is required within the state of California via State vehicle. Travel may include multiple day overnight stay up to 7 days dependent upon department need. Must be vaccinated against rabies virus with adequate current antibody titer or willing to receive pre-exposure rabies vaccinations. Must feel comfortable with potential close contact with imperiled and/or confined wild animals. Must complete mandatory wildlife capture training and firearms training within 6 months of hire or be currently certified from the department. Position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule depending on operational needs. This is a full-time 12-month limited term position. This position may be extended an additional 12 months and or become permanent. This position is located out of the Ontario Office in San Bernardino County.