Dog Team Handler-CAGO Conflict Mitigation

Job Description

Wildlife Innovations is seeking a skilled, field-ready professional to serve as the primary handler for our Canada Goose (CAGO) hazing dog team which will support our wildlife biologists in implementing a comprehensive, adaptive, and science-based CAGO management program within city and state parks in the San Francisco Bay Area. This position is field-intensive, highly collaborative, and critical to reducing human–wildlife conflicts while maintaining humane, regulatory-compliant practices. The handler will be responsible for performing daily patrols in select parks and other areas to monitor for CAGO presence and implement hazing via assigned dog. Based on performance, this position offers an opportunity for growth into management positions and integration into other conservation and management programs.

 Primary Responsibilities

• Handle and care for hazing dogs and work with the wildlife biologist to effectively deter CAGO from high-conflict areas.
• Conduct daily hazing patrols in assigned parks/waterfronts; digitally document goose activity, dog performance, and hazing efficacy.
• Assist WI wildlife biologists with data collection.
• Operate and maintain field equipment (may include company trucks, boats, UAS/drones, ATV, etc.), following safety and permit requirements.
• Prepare concise field logs and contribute to technical reports and client deliverables.
• Coordinate with park staff and the public to ensure program transparency and compliance.

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience handling and training working or herding dogs (goose hazing, wildlife control, search-and-rescue, herding, or similar).
• Must be willing to house and provide appropriate care and training maintenance for your assigned dog.
• 2+ years of wildlife, animal control, or related fieldwork experience; familiarity with humane wildlife deterrence techniques.
• Ability to hike, boat, or wade in variable terrain and weather; lift/carry 50+ lbs; work early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Strong record-keeping, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Valid Driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Must be willing to obtain a California Driver’s license after six (6) months of employment
• Willingness to participate in additional training, as needed, for enhancement of skills and as part of continued education

Preferred Qualifications

• Ownership/Possession of a FIELD READY CAGO hazing dog that can be used for this project.
• Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Animal Behavior, or related field (or equivalent field experience).
• Experience composing technical reports
• Prior experience with CAGO management (hazing, nest searching, egg addling).
• Demonstrated experience training dog handlers (goose hazing, wildlife control, search-and-rescue, herding, or similar).
• Small UAS (Part 107) certification, boating experience/permit, and first-aid/CPR certification.
• Experience interacting with the public on wildlife conflict issues.
• Experience pulling trailers (12’<) within city limits

Compensation & Benefits

• $65,000–$85,000 annual salary, commensurate with experience
• Health Insurance
• SEP IRA (minimum employment duration must be satisfied)
• PTO/holidays
• Training and certification support