About the Organization

The Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy (ARC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on the conservation and restoration of amphibian and reptile populations and their habitats across the United States. ARC focuses on implementing field programs in high-priority areas for amphibians and reptiles to improve their chances of survival. Our work includes inventory, monitoring, research, habitat restoration, population augmentation, and developing management plans across Priority Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Areas (PARCAs). Learn more at ARCProtects.org.

Position Description

ARC is seeking a temporary Field Biologist to support ongoing Eastern Hellbender conservation work in western North Carolina and east Tennessee. The candidate will be located around Great Smoky Mountains National Park with frequent travel to project sites and occasional overnight trips as required. Primary duties will include participation in field inventory, monitoring, and restoration projects in the Southern Appalachians including but not limited to:

• Snorkel surveys to detect hellbender adults, juveniles, and larvae. This requires wearing a wetsuit and submerging in cold (<60°F) stream water. 
• In-stream habitat data collection.
• eDNA collection which will require hiking into remote areas with some potential overnight backpacking trips, and collecting water samples following a strict protocol.
• Assist with pathogen and genetic sampling of hellbenders.
• Stream restorations that may include digging and planting trees or lifting heavy objects.
• Sampling or restoration work for other focal species.
• Data organization, entry, and analysis.
• Gear maintenance and inventory.
• Represent ARC’s on-the-ground presence to build relationships and communicate responsibly with state/federal agencies, private citizens, and other organizations.

Qualifications & Expectations

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g. wildlife, conservation) or relevant experience.
• 1+ years experience with wildlife monitoring projects, sampling methods, and data collection, preferably with herpetofauna.
• Working knowledge of Southeastern species and ecosystems.
• Experience using paper or digital maps to identify, relay, and track project boundaries and collect data.
• Strong organizational skills, detail oriented data collection, and ability to work independently.
• Applicant must be self-motivated, responsible, and have the ability to solve problems in the field.
• Experience navigating landscapes and driving 4×4 roads, possibly with offline maps.
• Familiarity using specialized software such as Microsoft Office Suite, ArcGIS, and Google Earth.
• Positive attitude and good communication skills.

Requirements

• Willingness to work in cold stream habitats for prolonged periods that may require swimming in deep water.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to use personal vehicle for field work travel.
• Willingness to work a variable schedule in response to project needs, including frequent travel, some weekends, nights, and holidays.
• Ability to lift 40+ lbs and work long hours outdoors in potentially inclement weather.