Mountaineer field assistant x 2 – Arabian tahr conservation project

Mountaineering field assistant x 2 – Arabian tahr conservation project

We are looking for 2 field assistants with climbing / mountaineering experience to assist with surveys of the Arabian tahr, an
Endangered mountain goat endemic to the Hajar Mountains of Oman. The position
will be for 4 months in total, divided into two 2-month field trips. The first
field trip would be from October to December, the second from January/February
till March/April, dates are somewhat flexible. 

This particular project is to assess the current distribution of the species and to
understand and map factors involved in the species occupancy. This information
will go directly into a landscape scale Arabian tahr management plan.

The position will involve:

1. Hiking / climbing up steep remote mountains carrying supplies in order to carry out sign surveys
and place camera traps in pre-defined random locations. Hikes can take anything
between 4 and 14 hours, can involve walking on narrow ledges with large drops
below, and may require short sections of climbing and good route finding
skills.

2. Use of equipment such as camera traps, GPS systems, maps, 4WD vehicles (some training
will be provided).

3. Sign surveys and good consistent recording skills.  

4. Other project activities as needed, such as mapping, small mammal surveys,
bio-acoustic surveys, and dropped-off GPS collar collection.

5. Taking Omani assistants out on field trips in the mountains to gain experience and
training.

6. Camping

The personal specifications include:

1. Experience of mountaineering and/or traditional rock climbing techniques is essential. Please
don’t apply unless you have relevant climbing experience.

2. Excellent level of physical fitness i.e. Hike 10 hours with ease.

3. High awareness of risk and safety.

4. A driving license

5. Good cultural awareness, flexibility and sensitivity, travel abroad etc.

While all a living stipend and travel expenses will be paid for and accommodation provided, we will
not be able to provide a wage.

The position will provide practical training in field research and in the study of
rare species, a unique chance to visit dramatic locations where few others have
been, and for the right person provide an extremely memorable and life changing
experience. 

I currently live in Oman so please contact me by email arabiantahr@gmail.com  if you are
interested (include CV and cover letter outlining relevant experience) or have
any questions regarding the position.

I am afraid I am unable to reply to all emails byut will try.

Steve Ross