Wildlife Biologist

Updated: 28 days ago
Location: East Stroudsburg, PENNSYLVANIA

East Stroudsburg University is hiring a Wildlife Biologist! Located in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, ESU’s proximity to New York City and Philadelphia provides convenient access to internships, careers and social activities. Just minutes from campus are the country’s largest water parks, scenic Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area, Appalachian Trail, and other opportunities for recreational fun.


As the Wildlife Biologist, you will need to think creatively and be comfortable leading a research team of Wildlife Technicians on various types of tasks such as small mammal mark recaptures, conducting tick density surveys, applying pesticides, sample biological collections, and obtaining field notes. You will be an active member of the Dr. Jane Huffman Wildlife Genetics team and will work closely with the Director of the Wildlife DNA Lab to summarize research findings, maintaining permits, and following standards of practice for sample storage. You will thrive in this role if you like combining your wildlife research and ecological observation experience while analyzing data to create reports. To be successful in this role, you must have experience in the biological sciences field, have strong research writing skills, and exposure to spending time outdoors for research. 
Your normal work hours will be Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. You may have to flex your schedule from time to time based on the needs of the business to be a true Wildlife Biologist. This is a seasonal temporary grant funded position with full time employment. Work hours may vary based on research methodologies with occasional evening and or weekend work required. When our team shows up for work, they are energized and motivated to succeed - all while being the most crucial piece to keeping the ESU operations humming.


What Will I Do At ESU? (AKA Essential Duties)

  • Responsible adherence to field safety procedures is essential, carry out IACUC protocols for handling small mammals and conducting sampling from small mammals.
  • Oversee training of Wildlife Technicians and student researchers.
  • Capture, mark and monitor small mammals using scientific methods and equipment.
  • Maintain Standards of Practice for research methodologies.
  • Maintain Certified Applicators license with the PA Department of Agriculture and protocols for approved pesticide application at designated sites.
  • Maintain accurate statistical records and databases and write project reports in accordance with established research objectives.
  • Collect, document, and store all samples using electronic notebooks and following standards of practice.
  • Perform scientific techniques, such as DNA extractions, polymerase chain reaction, genotyping, genetic sequencing, and gel electrophoresis.
  • Performs analysis of data on research objectives and writes scientific manuscripts on findings.
  • Assist with preparing proposals for state and federal grants.
  • Collaborate with Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Health, and local Vector Control agencies and local Colleges and Universities, along with the community on the research goals and objectives.
  • Conduct any needed public outreach to landowners or school districts on approval and access to study sites.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

What We're Looking For (AKA Qualifications)

  • One year of professional experience conducting wildlife research required.
  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Biology, or a closely related field of study, OR any combination of experience and training which includes thirty-six college credits in wildlife management, wildlife biology, wildlife diseases, animal or plant ecology, zoology, statistics, or a closely related field is required.
  • Possession of a valid driver’s license is required.
  • Master of Science in Biology, Wildlife Biology, Ecology, Environmental Biology, or a closely related field of study with a minimum of 12 credit hours in ecology and wildlife biology.
  • 3+ years of experience assisting or conducting field research.
  • Experience identifying insects and arachnids.
  • Ability to be self-motivated, organized, independent, and eager to learn a breadth of techniques.
  • Ability to hike various terrains for long distances in varying climatic conditions, carry or move 50-lbs, use two-way radios per the Federal Communications Commission.
  • Ability to work outdoors for long periods of time.
  • Able to read, write, and comprehend English; able to follow verbal instructions.
  • Experience with Word, Excel, Teams required.

What We Offer

  • Salary: $25.48 hourly
  • Living by the Warrior Code:
    • Accountable for One's Actions
    • Committed to Self-Growth
    • Willing to Sacrifice for the Greater Good
    • Positive, Honest, and Loyal
    • Respectful of the Environment and Community
    • Dedicated to Empowering Others

We believe diversity, inclusion and belonging is key for our teams. 
Much like our academic programs, we are proud to foster a workplace that is unique to higher education. As an organization focused on diversity, inclusion and belonging, we are committed to ensuring our employees are comfortable bringing their authentic selves to work every day. A unique perspective is critical to solving complex problems and inspiring others.

And yes, legal made us spell this out…
Must be at least 18 years old and be able to read and write English. Employment with ESU is contingent on the selected candidate passing a thorough background check that includes: FBI fingerprinting, PA Child Abuse, and employment. We are proud ESU is an equal opportunity employer. For more information on President Long's 10-point plan, click here: https://www.esu.edu/president/10-action-plan.cfm