Wildlife Health Technician – Diagnostics & Surveillance

Kate on Conservation; Missouri; On-site; USD 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

The Wildlife Health Technician supports MDC wildlife disease surveillance by coordinating biological sample shipping, QA/QC of regional samples, and responding to sick and dead wildlife reports. The role may assist with outreach workshops and CWD operations.

Office-based work includes managing the wildlife health laboratory and diagnostics on wildlife. Responsibilities include coordinating samples, communicating with the public, and maintaining data using Access and GIS.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Science, Fisheries, Biological Sciences, or a related field.
• Maintain a valid, current driver’s license.
• Previous experience operating diagnostic laboratory equipment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate logistics for statewide CWD sampling and organize 30,000+ samples annually.
• Coordinate statewide sick and dead wildlife responses with public communication.
• Coordinate biological sample submissions with diagnostic laboratories and report results.
• Operate laboratory diagnostic equipment and observe biohazard precautions.
• Enter and analyze wildlife health data using Access or GIS tools.
• Represent the department professionally when interacting with the public.
• Respond to reports of sick or dead wildlife and collect samples for testing.
• Inventory supplies for wildlife disease testing.
• Participate in festivals and workshops with MDC staff and the public.
• Assist the state wildlife veterinarian with research and necropsies.

Skills

Communication skills

Time management

Independent work

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Safety mindset

Public communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Science, Fisheries, Biological Sciences, or related field

Valid driver’s license

Experience operating diagnostic laboratory equipment

Tools

Microsoft Access

ArcPro GIS

State applications

Job description

The Wildlife Health Technician supports MDC wildlife disease surveillance by coordinating biological sample shipping, QA/QC of regional samples, and responding to sick and dead wildlife reports. The role may assist with outreach workshops and CWD operations.

Office-based work includes managing the wildlife health laboratory and diagnostics on wildlife. Responsibilities include coordinating samples, communicating with the public, and maintaining data using Access and GIS.