Answers from Kristina

How would you describe your dream job in 10 words or less?

I am looking for an opportunity to pursue a rewarding career with an organization committed to the conservation and research of animals and the environment. I am seeking a hands-on and field-oriented position that utilizes my educational background and experience as well as affords me the possibility for growth, learning and advancement within my field of interest. My immediate goal is to relocate to the southeastern coast in an effort to be closer to my family. I intend to remain in the area and establish roots in a position with advancement potential. I value the opportunity to broaden my horizons with new experiences and I appreciate your consideration.... read more

Posted @ 11:45AM, January 20, 2009 by Kristina Witter | Permalink
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Work history

Wildlife Biologist

How would you describe your time at Ft. Benning Conservation Br...?

In order to meet requirements outlined by the USFWS, I conduct demographic monitoring and management
activities such as those described below for a Red-cockaded Woodpecker (RCW) Natural Resource Specialist
including coordinating and conducting both inter- and intra-population translocation of
juvenile and adult RCWs. In addition, I supervise and coordinate the activities of field technicians in each of these areas.
As Ft. Benning's Base Realignment and Closure Biologist, I assist the Installation in compliance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other federal regulations regarding the RCW. Specifically, I analyze the impact of military training and project development on the population and its habitat. I use GIS software to create maps and conduct environmental analysis in order to predict and recognize adverse impacts and recommend minimization alternatives.
I represent Ft. Benning's Conservation Branch in meetings with Installation officials, the public and engineers and act as a liaison between the Conservation Branch and other federal agencies such as the USFWS and Department of Defense. I am considered a subject matter expert and am consulted frequently to explain technical and biological information regarding the RCW, its ecology and habitat. I occasionally present information regarding the impacts of development on and the status of other threatened and endangered species including the Gopher Tortoise and relict trillium.
I participate in the development, review and implementation of Biological Assessments, Biological Opinions and
Environmental Impact Statements (EIS). I prepare official documents for installation and public review and submission
to the USFWS such as quarterly impact reports and consultation letters. In addition, I have developed and
implemented monitoring and management plans to support RCW habitat protection and population recovery
... read more
Frankford Animal Clinic and The Animal Hospital... September 2005 to February 2007
VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

How would you describe your time at Frankford Animal Clinic and...?

I became familiar with laboratory procedures in a medical environment while gaining experience utilizing technical
lab equipment such as blood work and x-ray machines. Additional daily tasks included the preparation and
reading of microscope slides, collecting biological samples (i.e. drawing
blood), catheterization, administering
fluids, anesthesia, medications and injections, filling prescriptions, monitoring heart and respiratory rates, and assisting in major surgical procedures. I often represented the doctor while discussing medical procedures and medications with clients. The ability to interpret results, draw conclusions, utilize common sense, and think quickly while under pressure was a must
In addition to all the skills performed by a trained veterinary technician, I also assumed the responsibilities of an
office administrator.
... read more
ZooWorld Zoological and Botanical Gardens March 2005 to August 2005
ANIMAL SHOW PRESENTER

How would you describe your time at ZooWorld Zoological and Bot...?

As the main presenter and public face for the zoo, my position required excellent public speaking and customer
relations skills. I was responsible for entertaining and educating the community through both personal communication and presentations to large, varied audiences. Detailed knowledge
of the zoo and its animals was required. In addition, I assisted higher level officials in the development of ZooWorld's animal shows as well as represented the zoo at local city Chamber of Commerce meetings.... read more
RCW NATURAL RESOURCE SPECIALIST/WILDLIFE WORKER

How would you describe your time at Biology Department, Virgini...?

My primary duty was to observe the RCW in its natural habitat and collect data as part of an on-going
conservation project for Virginia Tech University. I performed hands-on physical tasks such as climbing trees up
to 70 feet using Swedish ladders, drilling and maintaining artificial nesting
cavities, tracking and identifying RCWs
using spotting scopes, and banding hatchling and adult RCWs. Additional responsibilities included monitoring
RCW nests using Treetop Peepers, translocation of RCWs, reviewing aerial photos and conducting field surveys
(especially for new activity and to evaluate habitat suitability). Familiarity with GPS equipment, GIS software and
Microsoft Office software was required.
I also assisted graduate students with individual projects such as habitat assessments, mortality studies and pioneer surveys for Flatwoods Salamanders and Florida Bog Frogs. I was responsible for the care and use of equipment including work vehicles, tools, and sensitive telescopes. Typically, I worked alone and unsupervised and was accountable for my own work.
... read more
Gulf Breeze Zoo and Botanical Gardens July 2003 to March 2004
Zookeeper

How would you describe your time at Gulf Breeze Zoo and Botanic...?

Duties included cleaning, general maintenance feeding and medicating animals, observing behaviors, evaluating
and monitoring health, and assisting in minor veterinary procedures. I trained and supervised the work of others,
prepared daily reports and developed regular enrichment programs. I
also assisted in educating the public about
the animals and the role zoos play in conservation through presentations and personal communication
... read more
Little River Zoo August 2000 to April 2003
TOUR GUIDE, GIFT SHOP MANAGER, ADMINISTRATIVE ASST.

How would you describe your time at Little River Zoo?

Each of these positions included training in all areas of work within a typical zoo including care of animals and supervision of other employees. In addition, these positions required public speaking and customer service skills as well as the ability to work efficiently in an office setting and perform associated tasks. Familiarity and proficiency of various computer software programs was required.... read more
LEAD LAB TECHNICIAN

How would you describe your time at Florida State University Bi...?

While serving as the Lead Technician, I supervised the work of others and was responsible for maintaining the
efficient operation and organization of the lab. Responsibilities included cleaning and maintenance, daily care of
research animals, and monitoring and maintaining variable habitat
factors such as water temperature and salinity. This position required meticulous scientific data collection such as recording size, number and sex of small fish, dissecting and examining their eggs as well as the drying, weighing, and preservation of these specimens. Utilizing computer software, I designed and implemented new data sets to facilitate this process. The data collected was analyzed as part of a genetics study involving physical and behavioral characteristics of the Sailfin Molly (Poecilia latipinna).... read more

Education

University of Oklahoma August 2000 to May 2003
Zoology

tags:

How would you describe your time at University of Oklahoma?

Member, Golden Key Honor Society
Coursework consisted of 128 total semester credit hours to include 8hr of Physics, 19 hrs of Chemistry, and 38 hrs of Biology related courses, including labs.

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