Ecology Technician- American Burying Beetle at The Wilds

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium; Cumberland (OH); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium seeks a Seasonal Ecology Technician to join The Wilds conservation team. You will support ABB husbandry, conduct field surveys, collect data, and maintain records while assisting with conservation efforts both in the field and at the Beetle Barn.

The role includes educating guests about conservation initiatives and guiding interns, apprentices, and volunteers. Strong organizational, communication, and insect-handling skills are essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Three years toward a Bachelor's in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, Ecology, or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support ABB conservation program through husbandry, breeding, monitoring and daily care.
• Conduct daily field surveys and monitoring of ABB and related species.
• Complete daily data collection and maintain program documentation.
• Provide input on safety, animal husbandry, and program operations.
• Assist with education of guests about conservation initiatives.
• Lead and direct interns, apprentices, and volunteers as needed.
• Attend meetings and training sessions to support program goals.

Skills

Insect trapping

Insect care & husbandry

Field surveys

Data collection & record keeping

Communication

Leadership to interns/volunteers

Guest engagement

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma

3+ years toward Bachelor's in Zoology/Biology/Animal Science/Ecology

Tools

ArcGIS

R

Job description

Join The Wilds' conservation team and play a hands-on role in helping recover one of North America's most endangered insects, the American Burying Beetle (ABB). As a Seasonal Ecology Technician, you\'ll work closely with the Ecology team to support beetle husbandry, conduct field surveys and monitoring, maintain program records and data, and assist with conservation efforts both in the field and within the Beetle Barn. This position also offers opportunities to educate guests about conservation initiatives and provide guidance to interns, apprentices, and volunteers involved in the program.

The ideal candidate has experience with insect trapping and husbandry, strong organizational and communication skills, and a passion for wildlife conservation. Students who have completed at least three years toward a degree in zoology, biology, animal science, or a related field are encouraged to apply. Experience with ArcGIS, R, or other analytical software is a plus.

This is a seasonal position running from September 2026 through February 2027. Candidates should be available to work five days per week, with schedules ranging from 25 to 40 hours weekly depending on operational and program needs.

American Burying Beetle Conservation & Research

• Work with the Director of Ecology to implement the American Burying Beetle (ABB) conservation program.
• Assist with ABB husbandry, breeding, monitoring, and daily care.
• Conduct daily field surveys and monitoring of American burying beetles and other burying beetle species.
• Complete daily data collection, record keeping, and maintain program documentation.
• Provide input to the Director of Ecology regarding safety, animal husbandry, and program operations.

Field Operations & Facility Management

• Maintain the cleanliness, organization, and operational readiness of the Beetle Barn.
• Follow established protocols for animal care, fieldwork, and habitat monitoring.
• Utilize sustainable practices in daily operations whenever possible.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of ecology and conservation initiatives.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide guidance and daily work direction to interns, apprentices, and volunteers participating in the ABB program.
• Communicate concerns, issues, and operational needs to management.
• Attend departmental meetings, training sessions, seminars, and professional development workshops.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues across The Wilds and the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks.

Guest Engagement & Safety

• Provide educational information about the American Burying Beetle program to guests and visitors as needed.
• Promote exceptional guest service through positive interactions and professional communication.
• Ensure the safety of self, co-workers, volunteers, and visitors by following all safety guidelines and operating procedures.
• Support the mission and values of The Wilds and the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma required.
• Completion of at least three years toward a Bachelor's degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, Ecology, or a related field preferred.
• Insect trapping and field survey experience required.
• Experience with insect care, husbandry, and monitoring required.
• Experience with ArcGIS, R, or other analytical software preferred.

Technical & Organizational Skills

• Ability to plan, prioritize, and organize work efficiently with minimal supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data collection and record keeping.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and research protocols.
• Experience maintaining field equipment, facilities, and program resources preferred.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to educate and engage guests about conservation programs.
• Strong teamwork skills with the ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships.
• Ability to provide leadership and direction to interns, apprentices, and volunteers.

Professional Requirements

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Valid\'s driver's license with a good driving record required.
• Ability to comply with the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks\' drug-free workplace policy.
• Ability to successfully complete an annual criminal background check.
• Commitment to workplace safety and conservation-focused best practices.