Wildlife Telemetry Technician (Desert Tortoise Monitoring Program)

The Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is federally listed as a threatened species north and west of the Colorado River under the Endangered Species Act. Desert Tortoise Wildlife technicians will monitor desert tortoise populations using radio telemetry. Understanding and experience using telemetry equipment is required. Knowledge of tortoise biology, conservation, and desert ecology is desired. Monitoring occurs during March through October to coincide with the active season of desert tortoises.

Wildlife Technicians (2) will be required to demonstrate proficiency in telemetry and tracking using radio telemetry equipment. Prior telemetry experience is required. The Wildlife Technician will have the sole responsibility of gathering weekly location data on all assigned desert tortoises. They will also be required to demonstrate proficiency in backcountry wilderness field skills, including but not limited to 4WD vehicle operation, and use of GPS, topographic maps, and electronic data collection technology. In addition, Wildlife Technicians will be field tested on their knowledge of and ability to follow monitoring protocols thoroughly and precisely. The Wildlife Technicians will work for 4-5 days per week with 2-3 days off with an understanding that the schedule is subject to change with little or no notice. Spike camping in the field will be required for part of the monitoring season.

There are two telemetry sites, one is east of Las Vegas on the Boulder City Conservation Area, BCCE, and the other is west of Las Vegas on the west side of the Spring Mountains at Trout Canyon and Stump Springs. Each Wildlife Technician will be assigned to one site but may support monitoring at both sites.

Hiring Deadline February 1, 2026, applicants are reviewed on a rolling basis and the application may close before the deadline if all positions are filled.

Compensation and Benefits:

• $22.00 hourly
• Field Per Diem ($25.00 per day while camping)
• Company-paid comprehensive medical, dental (with option to upgrade in coverage), and vision insurance;
• $25,000 Basic Life & AD&D insurance at no cost;
• Access to Pro Deals; and
• Housing will not be provided and the selected participant will be expected to procure housing on their own

Contract & Timeline:

• February 23, 2026 – November 4, 2026
• Full-time, minimum 40 hours per week
• Weekend hours may be required during field season

Location: Clark County, NV (Las Vegas)

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (wildlife or conservation), ecology or related field, required;
• Experience with telemetry equipment and tracking required;
• Experience collecting field data or following established field data collection protocols required;
• Experience using hand-held GPS equipment for navigation and/or data collection preferred;
• Self-motivated with ability to maintain a positive attitude while working independently required;
• Ability to work a variable schedule (including weekends) that may change with little or no notice required;
• Ability to walk a minimum of 10 km/day in challenging terrain and harsh and rapidly changing desert conditions, and otherwise be in good physical condition required;
• Willingness to camp in the desert backcountry for consecutive days required;
• Possess a valid, clean, state-issued driver’s license required;
• Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on- or off-road required;

How to Apply:

Please apply online through this application link by submitting an up-to-date resume, one-page cover letter that details your interest in the position, and any qualifications not fully described in your resume, contact information for three professional and/or academic references. Be sure to complete any preliminary questions prompted in the application and sign your application.

Notes:

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the organization's ongoing needs.

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment background check.

Disclaimer:

Although the organization has attempted to accurately and thoroughly describe this position, GBI reserves the right to change the same, including to change, add to or subtract from the duties outlined, within the sole discretion of the organization, at any time, with or without advance notice.