The northern Idaho ground squirrel (Urocitellus brunneus) is listed as federally threatened under the Endangered Species Act. This species cohabitates several sites in and around the Payette National Forest with Columbian ground squirrels (Urocitellus columbianus), yellow-pine chipmunks (Tamias amoenus), and western deer mice (Peromyscus sonoriensis). The University of Idaho has trapped these species for 13 years as part of ongoing research supporting conservation of the northern Idaho ground squirrel. We are looking to hire one (1) field technician to work with the graduate student during the 2026 field season.

In the spring, we will use radio telemetry to locate northern Idaho ground squirrels and Columbian ground squirrels collared in the previous year to remove those collars and download the data stored onboard. These data provide insight into differences in hibernation timing and torpor patterns between sexes and species. In addition to collar recovery, the 2026 field season will emphasize testing multiple trapping/survey methods to determine their viability for documenting species diversity and collecting morphometric data. We will compare classic diurnal Tomahawk trapping (typically used for ground squirrels and chipmunks), overnight Sherman trapping (typically used for mice and other nocturnal small mammals), and a new prototype device (code name: WildMarker). Development of this device received funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and is led by an interdisciplinary team of engineers, computer scientists, and biologists. The WildMarker prototype has been designed to remotely collect data from wildlife without the need for capture, reducing stress for the animal and the impact of human presence on these sites. We hope this experimental device will open new avenues for research in circumstances where staff cannot work directly with their study species, due to the requirements and drawbacks of traditional trapping methods.

This position is an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on trapping and radio-telemetry experience, and to contribute to the cutting edge of wildlife research technology development. Along with the supervising graduate student, the technician will capture and mark northern Idaho ground squirrels, Columbian ground squirrels, chipmunks, and deer mice with ear tags and subdermal PIT tags to assess small mammal diversity and demographics. We will also collect body measurements for captured animals to validate the results of the WildMarker prototype. We will deploy the prototype, as well as classic camera traps, and process the data collected. Additional responsibilities include data entry, maintaining traps and field gear, and other tasks supporting research on the threatened northern Idaho ground squirrel. Field work will be completed both as a team and independently.

Our work takes place in a beautiful mountain setting in west-central Idaho with nearby access to hiking, camping, fishing, rafting, and other recreational opportunities. Some field days will include long hours of physically strenuous work. Field work may take place during all weather conditions (rain and snow in spring and sun and heat in summer) and will regularly involve hiking 10+ miles per day while carrying heavy equipment over steep, rough terrain. Field work may involve atypical hours and variable scheduling to ensure all field work is completed on time but will be limited to 40 hours per week (with occasional overtime possible).

Field sites are located on private land and in Payette National Forest in Adams County, Idaho, near the small towns of Council and New Meadows, and the larger resort town of McCall. Free field housing options are available for the duration of the field season. The available field housing is shared-living, relatively rustic, and is a 40-minute drive from the nearest small town. The available housing is furnished and includes hot running water, kitchen amenities, and wi-fi.

The Conway Lab website: https://courtneyjconway.wixsite.com/conwaylab

Minimum Qualifications:

• Good interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to work independently and as a team member
• Excellent time and data management/organization skills
• Detail-oriented and self-motivated
• Excellent physical condition: able to traverse steep, rugged terrain throughout the day and carry heavy equipment for 6-11 hours per day
• Enthusiasm for scientific research, the outdoors, and small mammals
• Possession of a valid US driver’s license and ability to drive on rough, unpaved roads
• A US citizen or permanent resident
• Available for employment from 13 April 2026 through 31 July 2026

Desirable Qualifications:

• At least 1 prior season conducting field work in a professional setting
• Experience working independently in and navigating areas without cell service
• Experience living/camping/working in remote locations for extended periods of time