Title: Research Assistant III - # 069060
Position Type: Staff
Department: Montana Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit (MCWRU)
Closing Date: OPEN, Screening Begins 11/2/2009 Applications received after 5pm 10/30 may be considered
Schedule: Full-time, 12 months/year 1.0 FTE
Entry Rate: $27, 555.84/yr ($13.248/hr)
Benefits: Medical Insurance/Mandatory Retirement/Professional Development/Partial Tuition Waiver/Wellness
Union: None
Probation: Subject to a minimum 6-month Probationary Period
Primary Functions

  • Position supervises a large (20-25 people) research team with Thomas E Martin of the Montana Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit in high elevation, remote (tent-living) forests in Arizona during the summers to locate and monitor nest fate of 32 bird species, capture and band birds, video behavior at nests, and measure vegetation. Duties include, but are not limited to: monitoring quality of work accomplished and records, as well as resolving personnel concerns of the crew; performing duties during the off-season including managing data input, transcribing data, and generation of summaries; coordinating equipment and supplies; hiring and supervising a large field crew; performing additional duties as assigned

  • Position will demonstrate: effective interpersonal, oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate to a diverse group of individuals, and establish and maintain good working relationships; proven ability to work independently and maintain accurate records with attention to detail; proven ability to manage and motivate crews and solve problems encountered by a field crew living in tents in high elevation; demonstrated experience in the operation of personal computers and a variety of software programs, including Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Outlook, with the ability to learn new software
    • Minimum Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science and two (2) years of related experience, including experience in the field, or a combination of experience and education
    • Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Knowledge of bird identification, biology, and ecology
  • Familiarity with statistical software, with preference for knowledge of SPSS software, and writing syntax and conducting analyses to provide data summaries
  • Familiarity with major database management software (Access, Paradox), and writing queries for managing large and complex databases, including merger and conversion of date file types
  • Demonstrated knowledge of supervisory practices and procedures
  • Skill in locating and monitoring fate of bird nests
  • Skill using mist-nets and capturing, banding, and releasing birds using standard effort protocols and through targeting of species near nests
  • Proven ability to manage and motivate crews and solve problems encountered by a field crew living in tents in high elevation
  • Must be able to work outdoors in inclement weather and move in rugged and steep terrain
    • Physical Requirements

    Qualified candidates must be able to meet minimum requirements and perform the primary functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in inclement weather and move in rugged and steep terrain, sometimes while carrying equipment
    • How To Apply/Submitting Materials

    Contact Thomas E Martin for additional information regarding this position by e-mailing tom.martin@umontana.edu

    Prepare the following and specifically address the position number and title applying for and the above-described knowledge, skills, abilities, and job qualifications in your Cover Letter:
  • Three professional letters of recommendation
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • 3 Professional References
  • Background Check Authorization
  • Self-Identification

    All materials can be submitted via one of the following methods:
    		•

    Human Resource Services
    Staff Jobs
    EL Center Room 252
    Missoula, MT 59812

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    Notices & Disclaimers

    Criminal Background Investigation is required prior to Offer of Employment
    In accordance with University policy, finalists for this position will be subject to criminal background investigations.

    ADA/EOE/AA/Veteran's Preference
    Qualified candidates must be able to meet minimum requirements and perform the primary functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. As an Equal opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, we encourage applications from minorities, Vietnam era veterans, and women. This material is available in an alternative format upon request. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ preference in accordance with state law.

    References
    *References in addition to those listed on the application may be contacted without applicant's prior approval.

    Testing
    Individual hiring departments at UM-M may elect to administer pre-employment tests, which are relevant to essential job functions.