A state in America put out a notice for a professional bear hugger – and the job is not to hug teddy bears.
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish is on the lookout to hire someone who is willing to give their bears a cuddle when they’re in need of some love.
But you can’t just be a fan of cuddling; the applicant will have to pass a training programme to land the role.
“Must have the ability to hike in strenuous conditions, have the courage to crawl into a bear den, and have the trust in your coworkers to keep you safe during the process,” the department said in its job listing on Facebook.
Applicants will also need to have a degree in biological sciences, police science or law enforcement.
Time is running out, as the listing ends on 30 March.
As part of the recruitment process, applicants will have to pass a physical test, a written exam, medical and psychological tests and a job interview.
All of that to snuggle up to a bear whenever necessary.
But if you thought the bear snuggling happened right away, you would be wrong, as the job listing states the actual cuddling will only start in April 2024.
This is due to the intense training programme that applicants need to endure.
If selected, applicants will undergo training in firearms, boat operations, hunter education, patrol skills and wildlife handling.
“Not all law enforcement field work is this glamorous, but we would love you to join the team, where you can have the experience of a lifetime,” the New Mexico wildlife agency said.
Compiled by Dylan Bettencourt
Pictured above: A bear waiting for a hug
Image source: Pexels
