Roadkill Removal Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an increasingly environmentally conscious world, the focus on Roadkill Removal Specialists has never been more important.
As humanity encroaches on wildlife habitats, the need for skilled professionals who can safely and respectfully remove, dispose of, and record roadkill becomes ever more crucial.
But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a Roadkill Removal Specialist?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the heart of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the inner workings of roadkill removal,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable Roadkill Removal Specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s get straight into it.
Roadkill Removal Specialist Duties and Responsibilities
Roadkill Removal Specialists are responsible for safely removing deceased animals from public roads and highways.
Their work is essential for maintaining road safety and cleanliness.
They often work in a team or individually and may be required to collaborate with various departments such as sanitation, wildlife conservation, and animal control.
They also need to be well-versed in safety protocols.
The duties and responsibilities include:
- Patrol assigned areas for the presence of roadkill
- Respond to calls regarding deceased animals on roadways
- Safely remove deceased animals from roadways using appropriate tools and protective gear
- Document the type, size, and location of animals found and removed
- Perform euthanasia on severely injured animals if necessary and permitted
- Ensure proper disposal of animal carcasses following local and state regulations
- Maintain and clean equipment and vehicles regularly
- Report unusual findings, such as endangered species or rare animals, to relevant authorities
- Follow all safety protocols to protect themselves and the public from potential hazards
- Conduct regular inspections of roadways for any signs of recurring roadkill hotspots
Roadkill Removal Specialist Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated Roadkill Removal Specialist to join our team.
The specialist will be responsible for the safe and efficient removal of deceased wildlife from roads and highways.
The ideal candidate will have a strong commitment to public safety, a respect for animals, and knowledge of state wildlife laws.
This role requires physical endurance, the ability to work under pressure, and a willingness to work in various weather conditions.
Responsibilities
- Inspect roads for deceased animals and remove them safely
- Operate removal equipment and vehicles proficiently
- Dispose of animals in a humane and environmentally-friendly manner
- Follow local and state regulations regarding animal disposal
- Document each removal for reporting purposes
- Communicate with public and law enforcement when necessary
- Ensure safety measures are followed at all times
- Maintain cleanliness and functionality of removal equipment and vehicles
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
- Previous experience in a similar role is a plus
- Ability to lift heavy objects (50+ lbs)
- Comfortable working independently and at night
- Knowledge of local wildlife and safety procedures
- Strong communication and reporting skills
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Roadkill Removal Specialist
- Work Environment: This role involves outdoor work, primarily on roads and highways. Night shifts are common, and the work involves exposure to all weather conditions.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Roadkill Removal Supervisor.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Roadkill Removal Specialist Do?
Roadkill Removal Specialists work primarily for local government bodies, environmental agencies or private contractors.
Their primary role is to ensure the cleanliness and safety of roads and highways by promptly removing animal carcasses.
They are responsible for patrolling designated areas, particularly in regions where wildlife is abundant and roadkill incidents are frequent.
Upon finding a deceased animal, they assess the situation and carry out the removal process in a safe and sanitary manner, using specialized tools and protective gear.
Their job also includes properly disposing of the animal remains in accordance with local regulations and guidelines.
This could involve burial, incineration, or transport to a specific disposal facility.
In addition to removal tasks, Roadkill Removal Specialists often collaborate with wildlife biologists or conservationists, providing data about the species, location, and possible cause of death.
This information can contribute to research and strategies aimed at minimizing wildlife-vehicle collisions.
Some Roadkill Removal Specialists may also be involved in raising public awareness about road safety and wildlife protection, helping to educate drivers about how to prevent such incidents.
In the case of large, dangerous, or protected species, the specialist may need to liaise with animal control, local wildlife organizations, or law enforcement agencies to ensure a safe and legal removal process.
Roadkill Removal Specialist Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Roadkill Removal Specialist should possess the skills and qualifications that correspond with this unique job description, such as:
- Physical fitness and endurance to be able to handle the strenuous nature of the work, including lifting heavy animals and working in a variety of weather conditions.
- Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures to ensure minimal risk while handling deceased animals, including understanding of zoonotic diseases and their prevention.
- Strong sense of responsibility and ethical treatment of animals, showing respect and dignity in their removal and disposal.
- Excellent driving skills and a clean driving record to maneuver a vehicle with the necessary equipment in various road conditions and settings.
- Comfortability with handling potentially distressing situations, including seeing deceased animals and working in high-traffic areas.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills to report removals accurately, handle inquiries, and communicate with the public when necessary.
- Basic knowledge of local wildlife to correctly identify species and provide accurate data for monitoring purposes.
- Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision, often working irregular hours including early mornings, nights, and weekends.
Roadkill Removal Specialist Experience Requirements
Entry-level Roadkill Removal Specialists are typically required to have at least 1 year of experience in a related field such as animal control, waste management, or landscaping.
This can often be gained through part-time roles or internships.
They must also have a strong understanding of safety procedures and regulations, potentially acquired through a vocational program or on-the-job training.
A valid driver’s license is usually also a requirement, given the nature of the role.
Candidates with 2 to 3 years of experience are expected to have enhanced their skills in the safe and humane removal and disposal of roadkill.
They may also have gained proficiency in using specific tools or machinery, and should be able to operate independently with minimal supervision.
Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field are typically ready to take on more responsibility.
They may be expected to train and supervise new hires, coordinate removal efforts with local authorities, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
Prior leadership experience is usually preferred for these roles.
Roadkill Removal Specialist Education and Training Requirements
Roadkill Removal Specialists typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education as a minimum requirement.
They should also have a good understanding of safe animal handling, as the job often requires dealing with deceased wildlife.
This knowledge can be acquired through courses or relevant experience in animal control or wildlife rescue.
Many states require Roadkill Removal Specialists to undergo and pass training programs that focus on biohazard cleanup.
These programs typically cover safety procedures, regulations, and proper use of equipment and protective gear.
Additionally, a valid driver’s license is often required as this role involves traveling to various locations for clean-up duties.
Since this job involves working with potentially dangerous substances, specialists must be physically fit and might need to demonstrate the ability to lift or move a certain amount of weight.
While not mandatory, certification in biohazard cleanup or a related field can enhance a candidate’s knowledge and credibility.
Continuous on-the-job training is often provided to ensure that the specialists are updated on latest safety measures and procedures.
Voluntary education in fields such as biology, environmental science, or ecology may also be beneficial, providing a broader understanding of animal species and their role in the ecosystem.
Roadkill Removal Specialist Salary Expectations
The average wage for a Roadkill Removal Specialist is around $35,000 (USD) per year.
The actual earnings can differ based on the level of experience, geographic location, and the specific company or municipality employing the specialist.
In some cases, additional benefits such as health insurance and retirement contributions may also be included.
Roadkill Removal Specialist Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Roadkill Removal Specialist need?
Roadkill Removal Specialists should have a strong stomach and the ability to work in various weather conditions.
They need to have excellent attention to detail to ensure all remains are properly cleaned up.
Physical stamina is also crucial as the job involves lifting and moving animals of different sizes.
They must also possess knowledge of safety protocols to avoid the risk of disease transmission.
Do Roadkill Removal Specialists need any specific qualifications?
While a degree is not required, a high school diploma or GED is generally preferred.
Some states may require Roadkill Removal Specialists to have a certification or permit to handle and dispose of animal carcasses.
Experience in a related field such as waste management or animal control can also be beneficial.
What should you look for in a Roadkill Removal Specialist resume?
A good Roadkill Removal Specialist resume should showcase prior experience in a similar role or in animal handling.
Any certifications, permits or licenses related to the job should also be highlighted.
Evidence of physical fitness and stamina would also be important.
Look for candidates who have a demonstrated commitment to safety and sanitary work practices.
What qualities make a good Roadkill Removal Specialist?
A good Roadkill Removal Specialist should be able to work independently and make quick decisions.
They should be compassionate and respectful towards animals, even in their unfortunate state.
Dependability is key in this role as they need to promptly respond to calls to ensure public safety.
Good physical condition is also essential to handle the demands of the job.
What are the daily duties of a Roadkill Removal Specialist?
A typical day for a Roadkill Removal Specialist might start with reviewing and prioritizing reports of roadkill.
They then travel to each location, remove the carcass in a safe and sanitary manner, and clean the area.
They may also be required to keep records of each removal.
Other duties could include maintaining their equipment and communicating with local health or wildlife departments.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Today, we’ve shed light on the unsung heroes of our highways – the roadkill removal specialists.
And guess what?
It’s not just about removing unfortunate animals.
It’s about maintaining the beauty and safety of our roadways, one incident at a time.
With our indispensable roadkill removal specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into this vital role.
But why stop there?
Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating spot-on listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every animal removed is a part of a safer and cleaner environment.
Let’s build that future. Together.
How to Become a Roadkill Removal Specialist (Complete Guide)
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