Field Technician (Wood Turtles)

Essential Job Functions 

Field Technicians assist ZNE Field Biologists and other staff with ZNE’s local rare species conservation projects. The Wood Turtle Field Technician will specifically assist with conducting standardized visual surveys, radiotracking, searching for nesting turtles, and setting and checking camera traps. The technician will also keep careful notes, regularly input field data into online databases, and assist with data analysis and map generation and will generally participate in the design of the new research endeavor that will be the focus of their work. 
 

Duties & Responsibilities 

Conducts standardized biological surveys of animals and plants for ZNE’s field conservation management and research projects 

Collects accurate and complete data and assists other Field Conservation Department staff with initial reporting and analysis 

Meets weekly with Field Conservation Department staff to discuss and plan field activities 

Hours, Location and Term of Appointment 

Hours: Usually 9:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday, except during June nesting season when hours will shift to 2:00pm-10:00pm Thursday - Monday. 
Location: Our Conservation Department office is in Acton, MA, but the technician will travel throughout eastern Massachusetts 

Term: April 14 - September 4, 2026 (start and end day may be  negotiable, with possibility for extension up to 2 weeks total) 
Wage: $20/hour 

Working Conditions 

Frequent exposure and close contact with a variety of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects, including direct handling of large snapping turtles and other potentially injurious wildlife, as well as exposure to ticks, mosquitos, and other biting arthropods 

Frequent field work in difficult natural conditions, including wetlands, streams, and brush thickets 

Frequent exposure to varying and challenging weather conditions (e.g. heat, rain, snow, ice), and to dust, and allergens. 

Minimum Job Requirements 

At least two years post-secondary education, pursuing a degree in biology, ecology or related field 

Able to work nights and weekends during the month of June 

Must possess a valid driver's' license and be able to lawfully drive in Massachusetts and transport field materials and equipment in personal vehicle 

Must have no criminal history, convictions, in relation to animal-related issues, child welfare 

Preferred Job Requirements 

One season applied field research experience, especially with freshwater turtles or other herpetofauna 

Prior experience with radiotelemetry 

Ability to identify common native plants, especially of wetland environments