Utah's Hogle Zoo · 1 day ago
Seasonal Conservation Technician
Utah's Hogle Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation and research, and they are seeking a Seasonal Conservation Technician to assist with field conservation programs. The role involves conducting field surveys, monitoring wildlife, and engaging with community scientists to support conservation initiatives for native Utah species and habitats.
Animal FeedNon ProfitPet
Responsibilities
Demonstrate commitment to the Zoo’s mission and conservation efforts
Assist the Field Conservation Programs Coordinator with fieldwork preparation and implementation
Using established protocols, monitor amphibians and their habitats using visual encounter surveys, biometric measurements, water-quality measurements, and habitat assessments
Record and manage survey data using ArcGIS Survey123
Using established protocols, monitor mammals, bats, and birds using trail cameras and acoustic recorders, and conduct riparian and forest vegetation assessments
Manage, sort, and process images obtained from trail cameras
As needed, manage and process bat and bird recordings obtained from acoustic recorders
Help plan and organize fieldwork trips (both daily and multi-day outings)
Help inventory and maintain field supplies and equipment, including camping gear, trail cameras, and acoustic recorders
Assist with training and managing community scientists and student interns in the field
Interact with partner organizations (e.g., U.S. Forest Service, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, and non-governmental organizations)
Interact with Zoo guests and volunteers to communicate scientific and conservation messages and increase awareness of the Zoo’s conservation and sustainability programs and impact
As needed, contribute to other initiatives of the Conservation Department, including on-grounds conservation activities and off-site Jordan River Restoration events
As needed, contribute to community outreach by developing social media content
Perform other duties as assigned
Maintains strict confidentiality
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, conservation biology, natural resources management, forestry, wildlife science, or related discipline
At least one season of wildlife- or habitat-related fieldwork
Some experience handling wildlife, ideally amphibians
Some experience supervising people in field settings
Microsoft Office Suite
Basic geographical skills (e.g., interpretation of topographic maps and satellite imagery)
Basic geospatial skills (e.g., use of handheld GPS for mapping and navigation)
Basic understanding of trail cameras and acoustic recorders in wildlife research
Fundamental knowledge of natural history, ecology, and conservation fields
Support and promote the Zoo's mission to create Champions for Wildlife
Effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders
Apply critical thinking to analyze and solve problems
Manage stressful situations in a professional and calm manner
Meet deadlines
Work well in teams and independently
Work nights, weekends, and overtime, as needed
Operate AWD vehicles on unpaved roads
Ensure the safety of teams in the field
Demonstrate a strong work ethic
Follow written and verbal instructions
Provide a negative TB test prior to hire date and maintain TB testing through course of employment
Valid driver's license and ability to drive a truck on unmaintained roads
Preferred
Familiarity with, or expertise in, ArcGIS and ArcGIS Survey123
Familiarity with, or expertise in, wildlife-tracking technologies, such as trail cameras, acoustic recorders, and passive integrated transponders (PIT) tags
Familiarity with, or expertise in, wildlife data-analysis programs, such as Wildlife Insights, BirdNET Analyzer, Sonobat, and Kaleidoscope
Prior ecological field research with amphibians
Camping and wilderness survival skills
Master's degree in biology, ecology, conservation biology, natural resources management, forestry, wildlife science, or related discipline
Experience leading wildlife- or habitat-related research or conservation projects
Experience leading field projects and teams