POSITION SUMMARY:

The Bear Guard/SHERP Operator plays a critical role in supporting cultural survey crews, archeologists, and researchers working in remote locations. This position combines wildlife safety, field logistics, and transportation support to ensure the safe delivery of personnel and equipment to field sites. Operators assist in field planning, transport supplies and gear, and operate SHERP amphibious and off-road vehicles in challenging terrain.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Cultural Survey & Research Field Support:

• Coordinate site access, safety, and logistics with cultural resource crews and researchers.
• Transport personnel, equipment, and supplies to remote sites.
• Stage, load, and relocation supplies and research gear.
• Set up temporary field camps, staging areas, and access routes.

Wildlife Safety & Bear Guard:

• Stay alert for wildlife and patrol work zones for bear activity.
• Use non-lethal deterrents (bear spray, air horn) to protect crews.
• Lead or assist daily wildlife safety briefings.
• Monitor weather and conditions affecting wildlife.
• Document wildlife activity and maintain safety gear.

SHERP Operations & Logistics:

• Operate SHERP amphibious vehicles and off-road equipment.
• Perform inspections, pre-trip checks, and basic maintenance.
• Safely load, secure, and unload gear and personnel.
• Follow all safety protocols for remote transportation.
• Coordinate closely with the Field Crew Supervisor and Natural Resources Manager to plan SHERP routes that minimize environmental impact and protect sensitive land areas.
• Follow best practices in environmental stewardship and conservation when operating SHERP vehicles to reduce soil disturbance, vegetation damage, and wildlife disruption.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• SHERP/amphibious vehicle experience.
• Alaska Bear Guard or wildlife safety certification.
• Skid steer certification with experience.
•  Firearm certification or ability to certify.
• Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather and difficult terrain in remote fieldwork zones.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Remote fieldwork experience, preferably with cultural, research, or environmental fieldwork.
• Familiarity with bear behavior and deterrence.
• Physically fit for rugged terrain, varied weather conditions, and the lifting of equipment and supplies.
• Experience with off-road equipment (ATV, UTV, snowmachine, SHERP).
• Able to stay alert, safety-focused on long shifts.
• Firearm Safety Certification, preferably.
• CPR/Frist Aid certification, preferably.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and good driving record.
• Clean state and federal background check.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & SCHEDULE:

• Remote outdoor work: wildlife, rough terrain, insects, varied weather conditions.
• Schedule 6 days per week, 12 hours per day. 1 week on 1 week off. May vary due to weather conditions and/or project needs.
• May include extended shifts, early starts, and multi-day assignments.
• Field camps may have limited facilities and camping conditions.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

NATIVE PREFERENCE STATEMENT: Pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975 (PL 93-638) and as further guided by Knik Tribe Native Preference Policy 6.120, Knik Tribe maintains preference in all phases of employment for Alaska Native, American Indian (AN/AI) and Native Hawaiian people, including direct lineal descendants and foster or traditionally adopted children. Also included are non-Native head of household members of Native families, which includes foster or traditionally adopted Native children.

DETAILS OF EMPLOYMENT:

•          Location: Knik

•          Supervisor: Director of Natural Resources

•          Schedule: Seasonal, Rotational 1 week on (6 days/12 hours) 1 week off

•          Salary: $35.00 - $40.00

To Apply: Submit Resume to:

Human Resources at hr@kniktribe.org

For more information or to download the job description visit www.kniktribe.org/careers