Lab Assistant (J.Smith Lab) (LAB AST 1)

Appointee(s) to the Laboratory Assistant (LAB AST 1) position will be involved in field research related to the movement and foraging ecology of California mule deer in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, California. Under the supervision of Dr. Justine Smith and in collaboration with Dr. Seth Riley at the National Park Service, the LAB AST will assist in conducting two field efforts to study mule deer responses to fire: 1) capture and GPS collar deployment on mule deer using Clover traps and free darting; 2) fecal sample collection along transects. Capture-related activities include setting and regularly monitoring baits, camera traps, and Clover traps, tracking and glassing for deer to select trapping locations, repairing Clover traps, and communicating actively with other participating team members from agency partners. Additional activities include mortality investigations, sample curation and storage, and data entry. Applicants will preferably have experience in ungulate captures, particularly with Clover traps, and GPS collar deployment.

The LAB AST is expected to work closely in a small team, start early in the morning, and spend long days hiking off-trail in rugged and hot conditions. They will work outdoors in rugged terrain in various weather conditions, including remote field areas. They may be exposed to high temperatures (>90 F), steep and shrubby slopes, poison oak, and ticks. The landscape also supports a population of mountain lions. The LAB AST must be able to lift 40 pounds, withstand varied weather and environmental conditions, and adhere to a Field Safety Plan to minimize personal risk.

The ideal candidate will have strong problem-solving, interpersonal, and communication skills, as well as the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. They will also have demonstrated the attention to detail required to successfully collect, organize, and store data, as well as to communicate critical project needs, changes, or challenges to senior staff and faculty in a collaborative setting.

Apply By Date

05/02/2025 by 11:59 pm

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position

• Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
• High school degree/GED.
• Experience following data collection and storage protocols.
• Experience and proficient in the use of basic hand tools.
• Computer experience, data entry and data management
• Ability to sit and observe animals through binoculars for several hours at a time.
• Ability to show attention to detail, strong organizational and communication skills, including commitment to a safe and inclusive work environment.
• Ability to think critically and troubleshoot problems, work independently and as part of a team, and adhere to field safety guidelines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Wildlife immobilization training or certification.
• Bachelor's degree in biology, conservation, ecology, wildlife or similar degree.
• Experience capturing ungulates and setting Clover traps.
• Experience deploying GPS collars.
• Experience tracking animals with radiotelemetry.
• Experience working in remote field locations.
• Basic first-aid or wilderness training and certifications.
• Experience driving off-road using 4WD.
• Knowledge of safe animal capture principles.
• Ability to lift and maneuver 40 pounds throughout the day, hike ~5 miles/day, and traverse rough and uneven terrain in various weather conditions.
• Backcountry safety and navigation skills, including Leave No Trace principles.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs, Google Drive, and Google Earth.
• Knowledge of GPS equipment, GIS software, and with R or other statistical software.

Key Responsibilities

• 95% - Field Work/Data Collection
• 5% - Professional Competence

Department Overview

The Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Conservation Biology is a dedicated group of scientists and students interested in research and training in the fields of biology, ecology, and conservation of all wildlife and fish species, and to resolution of human-wildlife conflicts. As such, we are unique within the University of California. We pursue our mission through targeted research as well as integrated and dynamic teaching at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Our students emerge with a solid biological foundation on which they superimpose training in the ecology and management of wildlife and fish in natural as well as human-altered environments. They are established and emerging leaders in wildlife and fish biology, ecology, conservation, and management, with jobs as private consultants, agency wildlife or fish biologists, zoo biologists, and wildlife veterinarians, among others. The major prepares students well for post-secondary study, including veterinary school, graduate school, or pursuit of professional degrees in applied biology and ecology.

Department Specific Job Scope

This position will assist with ongoing research supported by the department.

POSITION INFORMATION

• Salary or Pay Range: $19.78 - $22.94 /hourly
• Salary Frequency: Bi-weekly
• Salary Grade: 195
• UC Job Title: LAB AST 1
• UC Job Code: 009605
• Number of Positions: 2
• Appointment Type: Staff: Limited
• Percentage of Time: 100% Fixed
• Shift (Work Schedule): M-F, 8am-5pm
• Location: Remote Worksite (REMOTE)
• Union Representation: TX-Technical Professionals
• Benefits Eligible: Yes
• This position is 100% remote

Benefits

Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.

If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html

* High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
* UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family
* Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave
* Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement
* Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
* WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources
* On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
* Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage
* Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles
* Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here

Physical Demands

• Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Environmental Demands

• Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Loud noise levels - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours

Mental Demands

• Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
• Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
• Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
• Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 Hours

Work Environment

The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC Community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdasvispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

Work environment will be outdoors in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, CA in potentially tough conditions (i.e. hot and dry weather, rugged terrain, dense brush, and exposure to hazards including poison oak and ticks). Ability to lift and maneuver 40 pounds throughout the day, hike ~5 miles/day, and traverse rough and uneven terrain in various weather conditions

Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position

• Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging

At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.

As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere

To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks