Got What it Takes to be a Reindeer Herder?
Ever wondered what skills you need to be a reindeer herder? Now you can find out, thanks to a recent, and unusual job posting announced by the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Inuvik, for the position of ‘Chief Reindeer Herder’,
to manage and control a free-range herd of reindeer on open tundra. The herder will be responsible for the surveillance, protection and migration direction of the herd. The candidate must coordinate and select animals appropriate for harvesting. The successful candidate will have a strong background in reindeer behavior, breeding and birthing and have the ability to control a semi-domestic herd of reindeer on open range; the knowledge of the dietary requirements for grazing; and experience harvesting and preparing wild meat for commercial production. This position requires lengthy periods in solitary with little daylight; safety and survival skills in adverse weather a must; knowledge and skills to work in winter conditions of at or below -40 c. This position is based in the field.
The official deadline has passed, but perhaps not for the right applicant!
