Research Assistant

Employer
Texas A&M Agrilife Research
Department of Rangeland, Wildlife, and Fisheries Management
Job Description, Responsibilities and Required Qualifications or Skills

Job Description Summary:
Supports wildlife monitoring research in west Texas by deploying and maintaining acoustic monitors, ultrasonic monitors, and trail cameras; processing recordings and images; verifying species detections; and assisting with data entry, quality control, and database management.

Position Information:
Conduct monitoring for birds, bats, and mammals using autonomous recording units (acoustic and ultrasonic monitors) and trail cameras in west Texas. The successful candidate will deploy and maintain monitors at our west Texas field site, process data using automated classifiers, and manually verify species identifications from classifier results. The Research Assistant will also perform data entry and upload files to the project database. The Research Assistant will work closely with staff and collaborators to conduct activities and support the overall needs of the project.

Responsibilities: 

  • Frequent travel to field sites in west Texas to deploy autonomous recording units (acoustic and ultrasonic monitors) and trail cameras, including device setup, maintenance, and data retrieval. 
  • Organize and process acoustic recordings and photographs using both automated classification software (e.g., BirdNET, SonoBat, MegaDetector) and manual file review. 
  • Conduct data entry and quality control checks; upload files to project database.
  • Ensure all field gear and sensors are in good working order.
  • Maintain meticulous field notes and frequent communication with project supervisors. 

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's in wildlife biology or closely related natural resource field. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Experience identifying mammals, birds (particularly by sound), and/or bats (by sonogram) that occur in west Texas. 
  • Experience deploying autonomous recording units and/or trail cameras for wildlife research.
  • Experience driving 4WD vehicles. 
  • Experience in field navigation and spatial data collection using GPS.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, ArcGIS Pro/Field Maps, and/or automated classification software for wildlife detection (e.g., BirdNET, SonoBat, MegaDetector).

Additional Requirements:

  • Collect data with strong attention to detail while working independently or as part of a small team.
  • Communicate effectively. 
  • Work early mornings and walk/hike for extended periods while carrying a field pack; positive attitude in adverse environmental conditions such as fire ants, chiggers, rattlesnakes, feral pigs, normal daily temperatures of over 90°F, intense sun, thick and thorny brush, and steep and rocky terrain.
  • Ability to obtain a valid driver's license.
  • Proficient typing and transcription skills; able to complete repetitive tasks. 

Required Documents:

  • CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • List of references
  • Certifications/additional documentation

Applicant Instructions:
Send application materials and any questions to Dr. Ty Werdel at ty.werdel@ag.tamu.edu 

Position Funding:
This position is grant funded and availability is contingent on grant funding. 

Job Field:
Wildlife
Job Type:
Full Time
Location Detail:
College Station, TX
Salary:
$15.85/hr
Application Deadline:

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