Lead Field Technician (Spotted Turtles)

ZipRecruiter; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in conservation is seeking a Lead Field Technician to support vital species conservation projects. This role involves conducting biological surveys, supervising field technicians, and collaborating closely with conservation staff. The technician will gain hands-on experience in field research and contribute to the protection of rare species while working in diverse natural environments. Ideal candidates will have a background in biology or ecology, along with field research experience. Join a passionate team dedicated to making a difference in wildlife conservation!

Qualifications

• Minimum three years of post-secondary education in biology or ecology.
• One season of applied field research experience with turtles.

Responsibilities

• Conduct biological surveys and collect data for conservation projects.
• Supervise field technicians and create work schedules.

Skills

Field Research

Data Analysis

Supervisory Skills

Biological Surveying

Radiotelemetry

Education

Degree in Biology

Degree in Ecology

Job description

Job Description

Salary: $22/hour

Essential Job Functions

Lead Field Technicians assist ZNE Field Biologists and other staff with ZNE's local rare species conservation projects. The Spotted Turtle Lead Field Technician will specifically assist with conducting standardized visual surveys, radiotracking, searching for nesting turtles and protecting and monitoring nests, and conducting trap surveys. The lead technician will be directly supervising two field technicians, collaborating with the Associate Director of Field Conservation to plan work schedules, and performing fieldwork alongside field technicians. The technician will also keep careful notes, regularly input field data into online databases, and assist with data analysis and mapping. They will support other projects as their time and primary duties allow.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct standardized biological surveys of animals and plants for ZNE's field conservation management and research projects.
• Collect accurate and complete data and assist other Department staff with initial reporting and analysis.
• Supervise two field technicians and create weekly work plans and schedules.
• Meet weekly with Department staff to discuss and plan field activities.

Hours, Location, and Term of Appointment

Hours: Usually 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday-Friday, except during June nesting season when hours shift to 2:00 pm - 10:00 pm, Thursday - Monday.

Location: Our Conservation Department office is in Acton, MA, but the technician will travel throughout eastern Massachusetts.

Term: April 14 - August 15, 2025 (start and end dates may be slightly negotiable, with the possibility for extension up to 26 weeks).

Wage: $22/hour

Working Conditions

• Frequent exposure and close contact with various animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects, including handling aquatic animals like large snapping turtles and other potentially injurious wildlife, as well as exposure to ticks, mosquitoes, and other biting arthropods.
• Frequent fieldwork in challenging natural conditions, including hiking through muddy wetlands, streams, and dense brush.
• Exposure to varying weather conditions (heat, rain, sun), dust, allergens, and noxious plants such as poison ivy, poison sumac, and stinging nettle.

Minimum Job Requirements

• At least three years of post-secondary education, pursuing a degree in biology, ecology, or a related field.
• Able to work nights and weekends during June.
• Valid driver's license and ability to lawfully drive in Massachusetts and transport field materials in a personal vehicle.
• No criminal history or convictions related to animal issues or child welfare.
• One season of applied field research experience, especially with freshwater turtles or herpetofauna.
• One season of supervisory experience (including interns, volunteers, or undergraduate workers).

Job Requirements

• Two seasons of applied field research experience.
• Prior experience with radiotelemetry.
• Experience with thread bobbin use in turtles.
• Ability to identify common wetland plants.

Zoo New England is an Equal Opportunity Employer by Choice.

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