Research Technician

About This Role

The Research Technician will need to have the abilities and/or interest in surveying and capturing and handling wildlife, habitat evaluation, leading a team of field researchers, field and GPS navigation, plant identification, and the ability to collect data on private land and communicate with landowners. Research objectives will be focused on evaluating the influence of land management and land use on upland gamebird survival, nest survival, brood survival, habitat selection, landscape genetics, and movement among landscapes associated with one of six separate study areas in Kansas.

The lead technician will be responsible for helping direct a field team of 2 seasonal technicians through the duties and responsibilities listed below.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Help direct a small team of 2-3 field technicians (30%)
• Survey areas for upland gamebirds (5%)
• Assist in gaining permission on private lands for research (10%)
• Assist with capturing, handling, and marking upland gamebirds with GPS and VHF transmitters (10%)
• Monitor marked birds for nests, broods, and mortalities (5%)
• Conduct vegetation surveys (20%)
• Enter data and perform basic QA/QC (10%)
• Communicate with private landowners regarding access (10%)

About Us

The Division of Biology at Kansas State University is composed of a dynamic group of tenure-track, research, and instructional faculty, as well as a large number of postdoctoral research associates, graduate students, and support staff. All of these individuals are essential to accomplish the Division of Biology's mission, to generate and disseminate high-quality biological scientific knowledge through teaching, research, service, and outreach. The research, teaching, and service interests of these individuals are varied, spanning all areas of biological research, teaching and training at the postdoctoral, graduate, and undergraduate levels, as well as service and outreach contributions to the broader scientific community and the public.

Worksite Description

This position is On-site.

All employees must reside in the United States when they begin working to comply with state law. K-State is unable to provide remote or hybrid work opportunities for residents of the state of Idaho.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a high school diploma (or equivalent). Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• B.S. in Natural Resources, Biology, or equivalent field
• Positive working attitude, ability to work well with others
• Ability to provide motivation and daily structure for a team
• Aptitude for critical thinking and problem-solving
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
• Ability to follow established project protocols
• Ability to communicate effectively with project staff, collaborators, and private landowners
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail
• Ability to carry heavy loads over rough terrain in inclement weather
• Interest in applied wildlife conservation and growing as a wildlife professional
• Must possess a valid US driver’s license without restrictions
• Experience driving 4WD vehicles
• Experience driving UTVs and ATVs
• Experience holding a leadership role, or completion of a leadership development course
• Plant identification experience
• Wildlife capture and handling experience
• Proficient in field navigation

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

• Cover letter
• Resume

Application Window

Applications close on: November 30, 2026

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$14.90 - $16.00 per hour