Research Associate II - WC - Part Time - San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo Safari Park; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The Research Associate II at San Diego Zoo Safari Park conducts laboratory, animal care, field and training initiatives to support conservation research and endangered species propagation. The role reports to a Supervisor level or higher in Wildlife Care and emphasizes rigorous data handling and protocol implementation.

Responsibilities include collecting and analyzing biological samples, maintaining records, and ensuring equipment is calibrated; while collaborating with a diverse team to

Qualifications

• Requires laboratory/diagnostic/wildlife care or field research experience.
• Proficient in data and record keeping; able to document findings clearly.
• Able to operate moderately complex computer software and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Carry out assigned research, diagnostic, husbandry, and training activities.
• Collect, collate, maintain, process and analyze biological samples.
• Review results, adjust protocols, or refer findings for review as needed.
• Collect, record and analyze data using spreadsheets and databases.
• Prepare and maintain records for sample shipments and equipment calibration.

Skills

Data management

Effective communication

Team collaboration

Record keeping

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences

Graduate studies desirable

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Spreadsheet software

Database systems

Job description

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION

The Research Associate II is responsible for carrying out laboratory, animal care, field and/or training initiatives in various areas of conservation research, endangered species propagation, diagnostic activities and/or community initiatives. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Wildlife Care department.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Conducts a variety of assigned research, diagnostic, husbandry, and training activitiesCollects, collates, maintains, processes, and analyzes biological samplesReviews results and performs additional tests, adjusts protocols, or refers questionable findings for review as neededCollects, records, and analyzes data utilizing spreadsheet and database systemsAssists in developing, updating, and implementing a variety of laboratory, diagnostic, wildlife care/welfare, educational and/or field protocols, depending on the assignmentPrepares, arranges, and maintains records for sample and/or wildlife shipmentsDocuments, files, and maintains recordsAssures accuracy of laboratory, animal care, and field equipment are properly maintained and calibrated. Performs quality control and troubleshoots equipment problems

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Candidates with experience rearing insects in a laboratory setting, implementing biosecurity measures to prevent pathogen spread within insect populations, and working toward obtaining individual U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) permits for endangered butterfly species in San Diego County are highly desirable.

JOB EXPERIENCE

At least three years of experience in a laboratory, diagnostic, wildlife care and/or field research experience required.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree in the biological sciences or a related field or equivalent specialized training required.Graduate studies and/or advanced certification or credentialing is highly desirable.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Trained in methodology and equipment used in the assigned area of biological research, animal care, diagnostics, social science or science communication.Proficient in data and record keeping.Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs.Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.Demonstrated ability to work effectively with others in a diverse environment.Able to attend to the needs of assigned research collections and/or community members.