Gopher Tortoise Survey - Seasonal Technician

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Responsibilities and duties with industry site surveys for gopher tortoises and other priority species specifically involve:

Position Details

Working Title Gopher Tortoise Survey - Seasonal Technician Department PSO-Marine Extension Service About the University of Georgia Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state's flagship university (https: // www. uga.edu/). The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University's main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University's enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine. About the College/Unit/Department For more than 50 years, UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant has served the state through integrated research, education, and extension programs that promote the responsible use and stewardship of Georgia's coastal resources. By serving as a bridge between scientists, local governments, and marine industries, we help communities protect coastal resources through sustainable, science-based solutions. Our extension specialists connect university expertise with local needs to strengthen the economic vitality and resilience of coastal communities. Education staff enhance environmental literacy and inspire stewardship by engaging the public, teachers, and students in programs that highlight the importance of Georgia's coastal ecosystems. We also prepare the next generation of educators and marine scientists through workforce development opportunities for college students. Meanwhile, our research program supports applied studies across Georgia that expand understanding of coastal and estuarine systems and address pressing environmental challenges. Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant is managed through a federal-state partnership between the University of Georgia (UGA) and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Sea Grant College Program, a network of 34 Sea Grant programs located in coastal and Great Lakes states and territories. College/Unit/Department website https: // gacoast.uga.edu/ Employment Type Employee Additional Schedule Information This seasonal technician position is anticipated to last 8-9 months (August 2026– April 2027), with a start date no later than September 1. The weekly schedule will typically be 40 hours/week, Monday – Friday (5 8-hour shifts), with the occasional possibility of weekend survey shifts and/or 4 10-hour shifts. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's holidays will be granted, but as unpaid leave. Since this position is temporary and cannot exceed the federal restriction of a maximum of 1300 hours in one year, health, retirement, and paid leave benefits are not provided by the University of Georgia. Please note that this position does not include housing or housing allowance. Employees are responsible for arranging and covering their own accommodations and cell phone expenses independently. However, for overnight field deployments, lodging and per diem will be compensated fully. Headquarters will be at the Coastal Ecology Lab offices at the UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant facility in Brunswick, GA. Advertised Salary $16-20/hr, based on experience. Anticipated Start Date 08/03/2026 Posting Date 06/16/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants Responsibilities and duties with industry site surveys for gopher tortoises and other priority species specifically involve:

Location of Vacancy Outside Athens EOO Statement The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ([email protected]). USG Core Values Statement The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Duties/Responsibilities

Percentage of time 90 Duties/Responsibilities Desk work, including the data entry, management, map creation, photo processing and literature research for both scientific/reporting and non-scientific purposes.

Percentage of time 10

Position Information

FLSA Non-Exempt UGA Job Code FTE 1.00 Minimum Qualifications Position Summary This position will be largely field-based to assist with surveys for gopher tortoises and indigo snakes), specifically line transect distance sampling and burrow scoping. We use pre-development data to project impacts and collaboratively develop plans for the avoidance or relocation of impacted species on industry lands (e.g., utility-scale solar, mineral surface mining) with project sponsors and natural resource agencies. We further work with project sponsors to develop and implement the local stewardship, habitat management and restoration, and staff/contractor education and awareness initiatives. We also conduct research on the post-translocation status of gopher tortoises, including vegetation assessments using transects and UAVs/drones in the recipient habitats. We use these data to engage adaptive management and process improvement for wildlife and habitat. Surveys will require weekly deployment to various sites in the coastal plain of Georgia, often involving overnight stays at a hotel while deployed or daily commutes to closer field sites. Additionally, this position will involve office work, such as transferring and managing datasets, visualizing field data and generating output in ArcGIS Pro, and assisting with reports and publications, as examples. This position will work alongside a group of researchers, usually deploying as part of 2-person survey crews. As part of onboarding, the technician will undergo specific task training with current project researchers regarding field tasks as well as compliance with UGA and partner protocols, which includes but is not limited to vehicle safety, cybersecurity, animal use/IACUC certification, and working with minors. Assistance with other grant-funded projects may be engaged as needed, but is not guaranteed as part of this position. Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position Undergraduate degree in Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, or related field OR 3 years relevant experience in field research and wildlife. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

Physical Demands

Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Is driving a requirement of this position? Yes Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? Yes Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) No Background Investigation Policy Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Recruitment Contact

Recruitment Contact Name Kimberly Andrews Recruitment Contact Email [email protected] Recruitment Contact Phone

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