Description: The East Foundation’s mission is to promote the advancement of land stewardship through ranching, science, and education. Our 217,000 acres of South Texas rangeland serve as a working laboratory, where scientists and managers collaborate with landowners and stakeholders to address crucial issues in wildlife management, rangeland health, and productivity. 

The aim of our quail research is to investigate the fundamental principles of quail management and address the scientific questions that remain unknown.  The Sustainable Bobwhite Harvest Project was developed to address the unanswered questions related to harvest and the effects of harvest pressure on bobwhite populations.  The investigation began in December of 2017 and has expanded to include more than 70,000 acres in Jim Hogg and Kenedy Counties.  

The East Foundation is seeking 4-5 quail research technicians for the 2025-2026 field season.  East Foundation Quail Research technicians will assist with:

• Quail Trapping – 30%
  • Prepping trap sites, care of traps, baiting trap sites, handling trapped specimens, collecting biological data, and leg banding.
• Surveying Quail and Other Wildlife Populations – 10%
  • Roadside counts, distance sampling, and helicopter surveys (if available).
• Observing and Recording Quail Hunts – 40%
  • Recording hunting metrics, temporal and spatial data, biological data, engaging with hunters, and discussing research duties.
• Compiling and Organizing Field Data – 5%
  • Working with Excel, ArcGIS Pro, CoveyIQ, and other software programs.
• Providing general field support for all game and non-game research projects – 10%
  • Radio telemetry, supplemental feed treatments, deer captures, education events, etc.
• Collecting Hunter Harvest Data – 5%
  • Collecting data and biological samples from hunting cooperators.

In addition to the duties described above, East Foundation interns can expect to assist with the education and outreach program, facility management, infrastructure, security, and service, as well as administrative processes.

Qualifications: Juniors, seniors, or graduates in Wildlife and Range Management, Natural Resources, or related degree programs are encouraged to apply.  The ideal candidate will be an honest, self-motivated person with a strong work ethic and an interest in hunting, ranching, and upland game birds.  Applicants should possess strong people skills, leadership qualities, and communication abilities.  This position will require working long hours in adverse conditions and lifting objects greater than 50 lbs.  Applicants must be able to use software such as Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, in addition to basic computer skills. Additionally:

• Successful candidates must maintain a valid U.S. driver’s license. 
• Applicants must provide personal transportation to the ranch. An East Foundation vehicle will be provided for work. 
• Applicants are subjected to background checks. 

To Apply: Please send the following documents to cpavlicek@eastfoundation.net with "Quail Research Technician" in the subject line:

• A 1-page statement of interest – describe your background, pertinent experiences and interests, accomplishments, and how this position will benefit you.
• Full resume – include all skills and proficiencies, volunteer experience, and/or other accomplishments.
• Three references (phone, email - contact information only).
• A copy of your current college transcript.  Applicants may submit an unofficial copy.