Herpetofauna Field Biologist

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, policy, and strategic planning across Priority Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Areas (PARCAs). Learn more at ARCProtects.org.

Position Description

ARC is seeking to hire a full-time Field Biologist near Hinesville, GA to assist on conservation projects in and surrounding Ft. Stewart PARCA. This position does not provide housing or housing assistance. The primary duties include participation in herpetofauna monitoring and headstarting projects, particularly in support of the frosted flatwoods salamander and gopher frog. In a 2-person crew, you will work both independently and with regional partners to meet project goals. The position will work with ARC’s Coastal Plains team in strategic meetings to help provide and deliver recommendations to state and federal partners to accelerate the recovery of some of the southeast’s most imperiled herpetofauna. Local and diverse candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in monitoring efforts and data collection for focal herpetofauna using visual encounter surveys, eDNA, trapping, and targeted surveys.
• Assist in egg collection and larval-rearing for frosted flatwoods salamander headstarting program.
• Survey for larval and adult salamanders via daytime dipnetting and nocturnal spotlight surveys.
• Assist in invasive plant control efforts including manual removal, mechanical removal, and herbicide application within and surrounding ephemeral wetlands.
• Assist in vegetation and habitat surveys/assessments of ephemeral wetlands.
• Mesocosm tank maintenance including routine monitoring of plankton food colonies for larval salamanders.
• Represent ARC’s on-the-ground presence to build relationships and communicate with state/federal agencies, private citizens, and organizations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field or relevant experience
• 2+ years experience with wildlife monitoring projects
• Experience using paper or digital maps to identify, relay, and track project boundaries and data
• Willingness to regularly travel or work varied hours (eg. night surveys)
• Ability to execute multiple projects, maintain organized results, and relay issues to meet project deadlines
• Applicants must be self-motivated, responsible, and have the ability to solve problems
• Experience navigating landscapes and driving 4×4 roads, potentially with offline maps
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work long hours outdoors, year-round

Preferred Qualifications

• Working knowledge of southeastern herpetofauna identification, ecosystems, mesocosm maintenance, and sampling methods
• Experience with herpetofauna inventory and monitoring techniques
• Strong time management and ability to work independently
• Experience with data collection and basic data management