Endangered Turtle Field Technician Part timeTemporary

Location: Clark County Missouri
Directly Reports to: Zoological Manager of Herpetology and Curator of Herpetology & Aquatics
Classification: Non-Exempt/Hourly
Position Type:Part time/Temporary
Hourly Rate: 19/hr.

Position Summary: The Saint Louis Zoo is hiring two technicians to work alongside staff from the Zoo and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) on field work surveying for endangered turtle species in Clark County Missouri.

Responsibilities: The technicians will assist with field surveys data collection and data processing under the supervision of the Zoos Zoological Manager of Herpetology and guidance from the MDC. Lodging and a field vehicle will be provided during the work week for the duration of the position.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelors Degree in Biology Ecology or a related field is preferred though students actively pursuing a degree are encouraged to apply.
• Strong attention to detail self-motivation and enthusiasm.
• Ability to work independently when necessary.
• Comfortable collaborating with multiple institutions and stakeholders (e.g. Saint Louis Zoo MDC).
• Experience with turtle trapping and trap monitoring is preferred but not required.
• Must possess a valid drivers license.
• Comfortable operating 4-wheel-drive vehicles.
• All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances including marijuana.
• Proficient using Outlook Excel and experience maintaining records and preparing reports is necessary.

Physical Demands:

• Physically capable of walking several miles a day.
• Ability to work in harsh field conditions including heat humidity and water.

Expectations:

• Follow directions and adhere to established safety guidelines and protocols for handling threatened species.
• Maintain accurate records including timecards emails field notes data and expenses.
• Work primarily in northern Missouri (Clark County) occasionally at the Zoo for training and administrative tasks.
• Drive field vehicles between the Zoo and field sites at the start and end of each work week.

Work Schedule:

• Stay overnight in provided lodging near the field sites during the work week.
• Position runs from March 2026 through July 2026 or until funding is exhausted.
• Work up to 40 hours per week.

About the Saint Louis Zoo: The world-renowned Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. The Saint Louis Zoo cares for approximately 12000 animals many of which are endangered and is dedicated to local and global conservation to save wildlife. Learn more at: Zoo is committed to the Three Keys (Animals Always People Matter and Operational Excellence) and Core Values (Community Creativity Openness Integrity and Life-Work Balance. Learn more at: St. Louis Mo: From Explore St. Louis: Urban explorer outdoor adventurer aficionado of family fun no matter your travel persona youll find plenty to do in St. Louis. The city is brimming with free world-class attractions and boasts an arts-and-culture scene thats second to none. Plus fans of fresh air will be surprised and delighted by our flourishing public parks miles of trails and exhilarating waterways. Sprinkle in a bit of our secret sauce the warmth and hospitality of the residents and youll discover that St. Louis dishes up undeniably epic travel experiences. Dont take our word for it though. Come and see for yourself. Learn more at Experience:

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