Moose Biologist

The National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation is seeking a moose biologist to assist with ongoing projects related to moose survival, reproduction, and habitat use in northeastern Minnesota. The moose biologist will spend 50% of their time working on moose-related projects for the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and 50% of their time working on a new moose recruitment project with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the 1854 Treaty Authority.

Term: 5 years (2025 – 2030), anticipated start date 10/1/2025
Location: Grand Marais, Minnesota
Pay: $65,000 annually
Benefits: NPLSF will offer benefits, including health, dental, short-term disability, 15 days of PTO and 10 paid holidays and expense reimbursement.
Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Ability to perform the duties outlined in the job description. Valid driver’s license, insurance, and ability to drive in all MN driving conditions.
Work Schedule: Monday – Friday (day shift), with some weekends and holidays as job requires

Job Duties

● Monitor data from collared moose to identify possible mortality events & parturition events
● Coordinate field crews to respond to mortalities of study animals
● Investigate mortalities of collared moose. Record data, collect samples, perform field necropsies and/or extract and transport moose carcasses to the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab at the University of Minnesota for full necropsy
● Coordinate with a University of Minnesota Duluth PhD student to collect fecal samples from collaredvfemale moose during late winter.
● Manage project data in a shared database
● Regularly communicate with project team members from a variety of agencies regarding project status and planning needs.
● Regularly (monthly) update interested parties on project status
● Maintain field equipment and supplies
● Review thermal video to determine fecundity and calf survival
● Update project website
● Give formal and informal presentations on project background and status to interested group (conservation groups, media, school groups)

Required Qualifications

● Master’s degree in wildlife biology, ecology, natural resources, or related field
● Strong field experience in varied weather conditions including harsh winters and remote locations
● Ability to use 4WD vehicles, trailers, snowmobiles, ATVs, radio-telemetry and other field equipment
● Ability to navigate using GPS, map/compass, and other technology (GIS, OnX) in varied terrain
● Valid, unrestricted ClassD driver’s license with a clear driving record
● Ability to use Program R or equivalent statistical software
● Ability to use GIS software programs such as ESRI ArcGIS Pro
● Experience with Windows computers and Microsoft Office products
● Schedule flexibility to respond to mortalities and other field situations quickly
● Must be eligible to work in United States and pass a background check, and provide required documentation upon hire
● Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, including working on-site at various locations in the Arrowhead District of Northern Minnesota

Desired Qualifications

● Experience working with moose or other cervids
● Experience performing field necropsies of wildlife
● 1-2 years experience leading natural resources field work
● Experience working with diverse partners and agencies
● Experience working with relational databases
● Data analysis