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Sea Turtle Technician - Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge

Employer
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Job Description, Responsibilities and Required Qualifications or Skills

The incumbent serves as the Lead Biological Technician on Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge responsible for nest monitoring of threatened loggerhead sea turtles. Duties will focus on locating, protecting, and marking loggerhead sea turtle nests; excavating nests to determine hatching success; collecting and recording nest data; and data entry into Seaturtle.org daily. Additionally, duties may include monitoring beach-nesting shorebirds as well as human disturbance on beaches. Ancillary duties include general maintenance of island facilities such as mowing grass; clearing roads and trails; UTV maintenance; use of weed eaters, pole saws, and hand tools; identification and removal of invasive species using appropriate techniques including herbicides; and general maintenance of the bunkhouse. The incumbent will supervise up to three (3) volunteer technicians. 

Blackbeard Island NWR is accessible only by boat. Boat transportation will be provided to and from the island, if needed. 

Required Skills
  • Must be at least 18 years old;
  • Bachelor’s degree in related field (e.g. wildlife management, ecology, zoology, biology) required;
  • Ability to follow data collection and management protocols with great attention to detail;
  • Must be able to work independently and supervise a small crew on a remote island;
  • Able to conduct strenuous work outdoors in adverse summer conditions on the coast of Georgia. Conditions include but are not limited to extreme heat, long periods in the sun, and exposure to biting insects. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Team player with excellent interpersonal and written communication skills;
  • Able to work with the public, refuge personnel, and public figures in a professional manner;
  • Positive demeanor with demonstrated ability to solve problems in group settings and individually;
  • Ability to manage priorities and ensure that all primary responsibilities are met;
  • Safely operate UTVs;
  • Valid driver’s license required.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience performing sea turtle nest monitoring field work including nest location, protection, and marking. 
  • Knowledge of sea turtle biology;
  • Experience with GPS units and SpotX satellite communication devices;
  • Department of the Interior Motorboat Operators Certification Course and UTV Safety Course. Incumbent may be required to complete the Motorboat Operators Certification Course and operate multiple types of boats.

How to Apply:

Submit application package including cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references.

Email applications to Chuck_Hayes@fws.gov

Website:

www.fws.gov/refuge/blackbeard-island

Job Field:
Wildlife
Job Type:
Seasonal, Temporary, Internship
Location Detail:
Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge is a barrier island located in Townsend, GA approximately 18 miles by boat from Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge.
Salary:
GS-4 Approximately $17.00/hour
Job Benefits:

Free quality housing on and off the island. Includes AC, washer/dryer, full kitchen. Off-island housing provided at Harris Neck NWR. 

Technician will work 10 days on island and 4 days off island.

Application Deadline:

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