Wolf Summer Predation Technician

The University of Alberta’s Central East Slopes Wolf Study is currently looking to fill 6 volunteer positions for a four-month work period (May 1 – August 30, 2009). There is a possibility to extend some positions through Sept.

The study is taking place along the east slopes of the Rocky Mountains in west-central Alberta with crews based in Nordegg. Three crews of 2 will be responsible for monitoring selected wolf packs to evaluate summer predation rates. These positions will involve multi-day trips in the backcountry, back-tracking wolf GPS locations to locate kills sites. Meticulous searches will be undertaken to locate kills, identify species and age of prey. In addition scat will be collected and analyzed for prey composition.

Successful applicants will have extensive backcountry experience and bear awareness, willing and able to hike long distances and have a passion for wildlife. Careful attention to detail and collection of high quality data are crucial skills for this position. The job entails very strenuous outdoor activities in all weather conditions and in rugged, mountainous terrain; excellent physical fitness and good wilderness skills are therefore very important (you will be comfortable with 20 km off trail hiking per day for 10day stints). Previous exp driving all terrain vehicles (quads) and towing trailers is beneficial. GPS use essential and knowledge of ArcMap an asset.

The positions start 1st May, and will be filled as soon as suitable candidates are found. Interested parties should send a covering letter, a resume and three references via e-mail.