Biological Science

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program is
seeking multiple seasonal technicians for the 2026 nesting season. There
are two types of positions. The first position is related to relocations
for active nourishment projects and the second involves supervising
interns and volunteers for daily nesting surveys. We will have several
of each position available, and will be reviewing applications on a
rolling basis until the closing date on 1/31/2026. See attached for
specific details of each position. You can apply at
https://mote.org/about/employment-opportunities/ but must submit two
applications if you wish to apply for both positions.

Prior sea turtle experience is highly preferred. Please direct questions
to Alexis Krummick at akrummick@mote.org off list.

2026 Fisheries Ecology Lab Internship Opportunity
Shelby Center for Ecosystem Based Fisheries Management
Dauphin Island Sea Lab
Dauphin Island, AL

Description:

The Fisheries Ecology Lab is seeking interns to work under the faculty direction of Dr. Sean Powers at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab on a wide variety of projects in waters adjacent to Dauphin Island, a barrier island in the northern Gulf fringing the Mobile Bay estuary. Paid internships are available throughout the 2026 field season. Preference is given to those who can participate for a minimum of a six-month commitment.

Internships in the Fisheries Ecology Lab involve hands-on participation in ongoing research. Qualified applicants will have the opportunity to assist with studies that involve a variety of fish (bony fishes, sharks and rays) and shellfish from both offshore and inshore locales. Interns will gain experience with various sampling techniques used in fisheries research, as well as associated laboratory sample processing. Potential candidates will work closely with a variety of lab personnel, including principal investigators, post docs, current graduate students, and lab technicians.

Requirements:

• B.S. or B.A. in biological or life sciences (Note: must be graduated by the start of the internship)
• Minimum of a 6-month commitment
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, which may include weekends, evenings, and holidays
• Willingness and capacity to spend long days on a boat, potentially in extreme weather conditions
• Ability to handle heavy physical work: lifting, pushing, or pulling up to 50 pounds
• Must be a U.S. citizen or hold a current U.S. work visa

Interns will be required to participate heavily in field-based activities, which are sometimes characterized by long hours and potentially arduous conditions. Much of the research conducted at the lab is by boat, thus experience on marine vessels is helpful though not a requirement. Travel across the Gulf States in support of various field projects may be required. Overall, the lab is looking for committed and dependable individuals that are highly motivated to participate in our diverse research program.

Eligibility: Recent graduates or graduating seniors with a BS or BA in biological or life sciences (or related field).

Stipend: $600/wk 

Apply: The application is a fillable Google form, and can be accessed here. No letters of recommendation are necessary. If selected for an interview, we will contact the provided references. If you have questions, you may contact Crystal Hightower via chightower@disl.org or (251) 861-2141 x 2384.

Application Deadline: 11:59pm CST on 02/17/2026.

The Spatial Ecology and Conservation Lab at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) is seeking a post-baccalaureate intern starting March 2026. The intern will support multiple components of a research project that examines the ecological responses to a nature-based approach (NBA) island restoration project.

The disappearance of more than 400 islands within the Chesapeake Bay has occurred as a result of climate change and erosion. Island restoration is important to mitigate the loss of habitat and biodiversity caused by climatic and anthropogenic factors. The project focuses on understanding how plant and animal communities respond to island restoration through upland tree planting and a living shoreline approach.

The intern will support the project by participating in field work including (1) vegetation planting and monitoring within experimental plots, (2) assisting with animal surveys using active and passive methods (e.g., for turtles, birds, and oysters), and (3) measurement of other environmental variables (e.g., soil and microclimate).  Other responsibilities may include organizing and cleaning gear for field work, assisting in the setup of field experiments, entering, managing, and processing field data from surveys and sensors, assisting in the identification of animals from camera sampling, working with volunteers or other interns, and communicating project activities.

Compensation: $700/week

Duration: 18 weeks with the possibility of extension (depending on budget)

Application Deadline: We will begin reviewing applications on January 12, 2026, and will accept applications until the position is filled.

A mutually agreeable start date will be determined with the selected applicant. We anticipate a start date in early March. This will be an in-person internship with fieldwork taking place on Jefferson Island, Maryland with some office work in Edgewater, Maryland. On-site housing may be available.

Internship Goals:

• Develop a broader understanding of island community ecology
• Obtain experience working within a research lab and as part of a team
• Learn about research design and methods for ecological data collection
• Develop data management and analysis skills
• Participate in science communication.

We are seeking applicants with some (but not necessarily all) of the following:

• Experience with fieldwork, in cold, windy conditions and hot, humid conditions with stinging/biting insects
• Experience with fieldwork in experimental settings related to plant and animal research
• Experience in data management (collecting, recording, entering, organizing)
• Experience identifying birds (by sight and sound), fish, and aquatic invertebrates
• Coursework and/or experience in ecology, environmental science, or botany
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

The SERC community strongly encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We recognize that each applicant for this role will bring unique skills, knowledge, experiences, and background to this position; as such, we will be looking for candidates who possess many, but not necessarily all, of the qualifications and experience listed above.

How to Apply: Please email a resume that highlights relevant experiences to Patty Levasseur (levasseurp@si.edu). For more information about our lab, please visit our website: https://serc.si.edu/labs/spatial-ecology-and-conservation

Position Title: Pollinator Crew Individual Placement– AmeriCorps(1 Opening)

Conservation Legacy Program: Conservation Corps New Mexico

Site Location: Bureau of Land Management (BLM) – Taos Field Office

1024 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur, Taos NM, 87571

Apply at https://secure.entertimeonline.com/ta/conservationlegacy.careers?ShowJob=705192642

RESUME AND COVER LETTER ARE REQUIRED FOR CONSIDERATION

Application Timeline: Consideration will be given as applications are received, and this position may close at any time.

Terms of Service:

• Start Date: 4/6/2026
• End Date: 11/13/2026
• AmeriCorps Slot Classification: 1200

Purpose:

AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds to serve their country, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities. Environmental stewardship programs help conserve natural habitats, improve energy efficiency, and protect clean air and water among other environmental efforts.

Conservation Corps New Mexico (CCNM): As part of Conservation Legacy and an AmeriCorps program, CCNM aims to continue the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930’s. CCNM is focused on connecting youth, young adults, and recent era military veterans with conservation service work projects on public lands. CCNM operates programs across southern New Mexico and western Texas that engage individuals and strengthen communities through service and conservation. The CCNM Las Cruces office manages the Individual Placement Program.

Mentorship: These Individual Placements are unique development AmeriCorps positions. Participants are paired with a local supervisor and gain technical, hands-on experience in the work of these organizations or agencies. Site supervisors commit to facilitate career development; introduce participants to numerous pathways within the conservation field; create meaningful learning opportunities; and provide technical, hands-on experience in the work of these organizations or agencies.

The Bureau of Land Management in partnership with Conservation Corps New Mexico seeks to fill a need for one Pollinator Crew Member out of the Taos BLM Field Office. The BLM Native Plant and Pollinator Program provides expertise in rare and native plant study, wildlife habitat restoration, and native plant materials development. The primary focuses for this position includes but is not limited to landscape-level ecology and wildlife/pollinator habitat management, conducting exploratory surveys on pollinator species across Northern New Mexico, and documenting Special Status Pollinator species within the Taos Field Office. A large portion of the Native Plant and Pollinator Program is dedicated to surveying for and minimizing impacts to special status plant and Pollinator species, Native Plant Material Collection, and Restoration.

The Pollinator Crew Member will serve as a two-person cohort on a project centered around pollinator survey, data collection, and monitoring within the Taos Field Office. Specific duties include but will not be limited to: using standard protocols and survey methods to document native pollinators and their associated native plant communities, identifying pollinator species, and preserving museum quality specimens for future study. This crew will also continue to monitor pre-determined sites and design techniques to improve restoration methods within the Taos Field Office.

Pollinators are essential to the health of many ecosystems, especially in Northern New Mexico, where native plant communities depend on them for reproduction and resilience. However, pollinator populations are declining due to habitat loss, invasive species, and other environmental pressures.  The individual placement will help pilot pollinator studies in Northern New Mexico and identify and prioritize areas where pollinator habitat restoration is most needed. These efforts will enhance plant-pollinator interactions, improve soil stability, and support wildlife heterogeneity.

The Pollinator Crew Member will work directly with the BLM botanist/ecologist and Botany Support Specialist to survey and collect base line data on pollinators and Special Status Pollinator Species within the Taos Field Office. The Pollinator Crew will gain exposure to technical skills in pollinator survey and field techniques, data collection, data management, and preservation of specimens. This position will be based out of a field office managing several resources, such as archeology, wildlife, range, recreation and hydrology. Opportunities to cross-train with other programs will be encouraged. This individual placement will participate in BLM staff meetings and be encouraged to attend networking opportunities, training and webinars, and other professional development opportunities. 

Description of Duties:

• Native Pollinator and Habitat Support
  • Survey and document native pollinator species (e.g., bees, wasps, butterflies, moths) using standardized protocols and methods (ie. pan traps, nets, timed observations)
  • Record habitat conditions and associated native plant communities.
  • Plant Identification
  • Assist with data collection, mapping, and analysis to identify patterns in pollinator           presence and diversity.
• Special Status Pollinator Species Study
  • Survey and document Status Species pollinator and host plant species (e.g., Monarchs/milkweed, Silverspot/Bog Violets, Yuma Skipper/Phragmites, Bumblebees) using standardized protocols (ie. pan traps, nets, timed observations)
  • Collect and identify insect specimens to the lowest taxonomic level possible (often genus or species).
  • Collaborate with taxonomic experts or institutions for verification of rare or difficult specimens.
  • Review scientific literature on pollinator ecology, threats, and conservation strategies.
• Specimen Handling, Management, and Preservation
  • Collect, preserve, and label insect specimens following ethical and legal guidelines.
  • Assist in sorting and identifying pollinators to family, genus, or species level using keys and guides.
  • Maintain organized records of observations, specimens, and metadata.
  • Accurately enter field data into spreadsheets or databases.

Conditions:

Outdoor: Driving on uneven terrain; hiking off-trail; exposure to rattlesnakes, insects, extreme heat, and rain; packing up to 40lbs of gear to collection sites; lifting more than 50lbs at one time.

Indoor: Eye and neck strain from using a microscope for extended periods of time, extended periods of sitting.

*Both indoor and outdoor work will be required

Qualifications:

• United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien
• At least 17 years of age
• Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of elementary or secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant, and agrees to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award
• Agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check
• Valid U.S Driver’s License – Drivers must be over 21 or have had a license for at least 3 years
• Per federal grant requirements, this position is for young adults between the ages of 17-30 (35 for veterans), inclusive, at the time the individual begins term of service
• Minimum of 1 field season working in a biologically relevant field (ecology, botany, range, restoration, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge or familiarity of Southwest native plants
• Experience with plant identification or insect identification and using technical keys
• Experience with ArcGIS and various ESRI data collection applications (Survey123, FieldMaps)
• Experience driving a 4×4 vehicle in backcountry conditions

Physical Requirements:

• To successfully perform essential functions, the individual is required to sit, stand, walk, speak, hear, etc. May be required to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl for significant periods of time and be able to safely lift 25 pounds on a routine basis. He/she must be able to operate office equipment, telephone, and computer and reach with hands and arms
• Ability to hike and navigate in rough terrain
• Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Participation and Expedition Behavior:

• Work effectively as a member of a team despite potentially stressful and difficult conditions. This may require problem solving on an interpersonal or group level as well as a willingness to accept differences
• Contribute to a safe learning environment, no harassment of others for any reason
• Willingness and ability to complete all aspects of the program including conservation projects, education, training, and national service
• Effectively communicate ideas and concerns as they arise directly to supervisors, colleagues, and organization staff
• Appropriately represent Conservation Corps New Mexico, the BLM and AmeriCorps to the public and partners at all times
• Flexibility, adaptability, and capacity to work in a fluid, changing work environment.

Safety and Judgment: 

• Effectively communicate danger to others in the form of either a warning of danger others may be encountering or a notification of personal distress, injury or need for assistance. Must be able to do so at a distance of up to 50 meters and in conditions with limited visibility or loud background noise such as darkness or high winds.
• Effectively perceive and understand significant and apparent hazards and follow direction by others so that you will be able to successfully execute techniques to manage hazards. These directions may be given before the hazard is encountered or may need to be given during the exposure to the hazard. Ability to respond appropriately to stress or crises.
• Stay alert and focused for several hours at a time while traveling and working in varied weather conditions.
• If taking prescription medications, participants must be able to maintain proper dosage by self- medicating without assistance from others.

Substance Free:

• In accordance with a drug free workplace, alcohol and drugs are prohibited while participating in AmeriCorps and program activities and while on organization property.

Background Check:

A DOI background clearance must be completed before the selected candidate may report for service. The BLM will provide instructions for completion of the clearance after a candidate has been selected and will notify them when they have been cleared to start service. This process will determine the participant’s exact start date.

Participants will have access to government facilities and systems, and will be supplied with access to gov’t vehicles, equipment, and materials needed to work on the projects and activities as outlined above. Participants must adhere to all government regulations and policies for operating equipment, vehicles, security awareness, and safety.

Conservation Legacy is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential functions. Some positions may require periodic overnight travel, non-traditional hours, ability to move across varied terrain, use program-specific tools and a range of technology on an infrequent or frequent basis. Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.Ability to safely drive an organizational vehicle may also be required for some positions. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during application or recruiting process, please send a request to the hiring manager.

Time Requirements:

• Typically, this position is expected to serve Monday to Friday, but exact service schedules may vary. A half hour lunch break will not be counted towards AmeriCorps service
• Member may be required to participate in national, state, or local service projects or events as part of their service term.

Orientation and Training:

• Member will receive an orientation that includes training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities.
• Pollinator Survey Protocols
• GIS relevant to project
• Guidance and direction for project activities
• Field training in Plant ID
• Insect identification
• Access to herbarium and taxonomic keys
• Examples of past reports for reference

Benefits:

• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $5,176.50
• Living Allowance of $600 per week
• Additional Benefit of $230 per week
• Travel & training budget $1,000
• Public Lands Corps Certificate* (that allows for competitive hiring for USA jobs/government jobs) – available upon successful completion of term
• Health Coverage
• Loan forbearance if Eligible
• Interest Payments if Eligible

Evaluation and Reporting:

As an AmeriCorps member, performance will be evaluated on whether the member has completed the required number of hours, the member has satisfactorily completed assignments, and if the member has met other performance criteria that were clearly communicated at the beginning of the term of service.

Reporting requirements include, but are not limited to, bi-weekly timesheets and accomplishment tracking.

Program Name and Contact Information:

SamJean Simmons Contact information:

ssimmons@conservationlegacy.org

 Consideration will be given as resumes are received and this position may close at any time.

Employer: The University of Wyoming (Laramie) Location: Oahu, Hawaii

Country: United States

Last Date to Apply: 02/15/2026

Start dates: Between March-May 2026

Open Until Filled: No

JOB TITLE: Field Technician

JOB PURPOSE: We are seeking technicians to work on a research project on Oʻahu, Hawai’i as part of the Hawai’i V.I.N.E. (Vertebrate Introductions and Novel Ecosystems) project, a collaboration across multiple universities (UH Manoa, UW, NAU, and UIUC) that began in 2014. The project is investigating temporal changes in seed dispersal and how removal of dominant invasive plants alters seed dispersal in mesic and wet forest ecosystems. Native species extinctions and non-native species introductions have dramatically changed the forest species composition. Although many native plants depend on birds for seed dispersal, on Oʻahu there are no longer any native frugivorous birds to provide this function. Instead, a suite of non-native birds are dispersing seeds. Additionally, invasive plants often dominate seed dispersal networks with impacts to native plant seed dispersal. Understanding temporal changes and how removal of invasive plant species impacts seed dispersal is critically important for restoration efforts.

There are multiple positions open with starting dates spanning March to May, with a minimum of a five-month commitment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Basic duties include: (1) Invasive plant removal, (2) measuring fruit abundance and vegetation characteristics, (3) performing point counts for bird abundance, and (4) deploying game cameras. Additional duties will include: (1) ensuring accurate and consistent data recording and entry, (2) maintenance of field equipment, (3) collaborating with team members for data analysis and interpretation, and (4) participating in team meetings and contributing to project planning and adjustments. Additionally, applicants will be expected to participate in regular (at least monthly) outreach and education events related to the project.

The candidate(s) selected for this position will work on a field crew of 6-9 people including other technicians, crew leader, and graduate students. Technicians must be able to work early mornings in rugged terrain in challenging field conditions. Fieldwork will involve long days of hiking and temperamental weather conditions. This is a full-time position and technicians will receive effective compensation of $16/hour, plus shared access to vehicles and the option to live in crew housing. Further details will be provided during interviews. Applicants will be responsible for their flight to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu, Hawaii.

QUALIFICATIONS: Minimum: A bachelor’s degree in biology, natural resources, wildlife management, botany, ecology or a related field and field experience pertaining to wildlife biology or botany are required. Applicants must be responsible, organized, and comfortable living and working as a team. An enthusiasm for research and fieldwork is essential, as well as patience and a strong work ethic. Valid driver’s license with a motor vehicle record (MVR) that is compliant with the University Vehicle Use Policy. Desired: Preference will be given to applicants with experience in tropical ecosystems, avian ecology, plant ecology, and/or a demonstrated knowledge of Hawaiian plants.

REQUIRED MATERIALS: Complete the online application. Applications must include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information (email and phone) for 3 references familiar with your field work experience as a single PDF document. Review of applications will begin December 15, 2025. Applications for this round of hiring will not be accepted after February 15, 2026. In your cover letter, please specify your desired start date. Include details of any prior experience in point counts and experience with plant identification and/or systematic vegetation surveys.

For questions, please email us at vine.hawaii@gmail.com.

TO APPLY: Please apply by going to the link below:

https://eeik.fa.us2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/253391/?ut m_medium=jobshare&utm_source=External+Job+Share 

A Laboratory Research Assistant position is available to work with Dr. Kelly Dorgan at The University of Texas Marine Science Institute in Port Aransas, TX, starting in February 2026 (negotiable). Research in the lab integrates ecology, biomechanics (including engineering theory and methods), and invertebrate behavior, morphology and physiology with engineering theory and methods, including development of new instrumentation. This position is intended for a recent graduate (BS) looking to gain research experience before graduate school and will involve field and lab work as well as helping to manage the lab, including purchasing and organizing supplies. The technician will process sediment samples, sort and help identify benthic invertebrate samples, conduct field work in local estuaries and potentially on longer research cruises. The technician may also have opportunities to analyze and synthesize data, work on instrument development and trouble-shooting, and help set up a new innovation workshop.

For more information and to apply: 

Laboratory Research Assistant IIwd1.myworkdayjobs.com

Location: Bandelier National Monument, Los Alamos, NM

Pay: $550/week, plus free housing, and an education award  

Position Length: 4.5 months (with the possibility for extension) 

Dates: May to September 2026

Deadline: 1/15/2026 for full consideration

Position Details

Come work in the mountains, forests, and cultural landscapes of beautiful northern New Mexico! Stewards Individual Placement Program in partnership with the USGS New Mexico Landscapes Field Station is seeking interns who will participate in a variety of ecological research and long-term ecological monitoring projects in Bandelier National Monument and surrounding landscapes in northern New Mexico. Interns will be particularly involved in fieldwork involving forest health and mortality monitoring, long-term vegetation monitoring transects, and other landscape change research. Other tasks include tree-ring research involving the collection, processing, analysis, and reporting on centuries-long tree-ring fire histories in the Southwest. All these ecological research and monitoring activities involve field data collection, with subsequent data entry, QA/QC, and descriptive analyses in the office.  See our website for more information on the New Mexico Landscapes Field Station & our Internship Program: New Mexico Landscapes Field Station: Internship Program | U.S. Geological Survey

Position Responsibilities

• Re-survey forests and vegetation from multiple long-term monitoring locationsProduce dated tree-ring samples collected from local forests using dendrochronological techniques.

• Collaboration on fire history reports, which involve data acquisition, organization, and analysis, for submission to forest and land managers. Interns are encouraged to design a personal project as time allows, utilizing field station data, and of benefit to Bandelier and the USGS New Mexico Landscapes Field Station.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, natural science, geography, or related degree

• Plant ID skills/experience Previous field work experienceAbility to hike up to 15 miles across rugged terrain to remote study locations, often off-trail, sometimes through brush and downed logs Ability to carry up to 40 lbs a minimum of 3 miles Positive attitude, works well with others and enjoys being outdoors (hiking, camping, long days outside, physical exertion) Attention to detail with database management and important wood samples

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with maps, compass, GPS devices, ArcMap, Google Earth, and digital cartography R or Python programming language experience a plus

Benefits

• Living Allowance: $550/week (pre-tax) Free shared housing in Bandelier National MonumentEligible for an AmeriCorps education award upon successful completion of the program.

How to Apply

• Please compile one document containing your resume/cv, a one-page cover letter detailing why you are interested and how your background and experience will help you succeed in this position, and contact information for 3 references to Carolina May (cjmay@usgs.gov) by January 15, 2026 for full consideration. Include “Ecology Assistant” in the subject of your email.

We are recruiting 6 field technicians to contribute to an NSF-funded study that aims  to forecast population dynamics range-wide under climate change in a broadly distributed native plant species (Chamaecrista fasciculata, Fabaceae). These researchers will collaborate on establishing and maintaining large common garden experiments in Florida, Georgia, or New York in 2026.

Field research positions in plant evolutionary ecology, Department of Genetics, Odum School of Ecology, Plant Biology and the State Botanical Garden, University of Georgia:

A consortium of plant evolutionary ecologists from the University of Georgia (Athens, GA) is currently seeking 6 enthusiastic field technicians to participate in an NSF-funded study (https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/show-award?AWD_ID=2220927) under the direction of Dr. Jill Anderson and in collaboration with Drs. Megan DeMarche (University of Georgia), Jenny Cruse-Sanders (Georgia State Botanical Garden), Seema Sheth (North Carolina State University), Susana Wadgymar (Davidson College), and Emily Josephs (Michigan State University). The project combines approaches from evolutionary biology, field ecology, and quantitative genetics to forecast range-wide population dynamics under climate change in a broadly distributed native plant species (Chamaecrista fasciculata, Fabaceae). The technicians will be part of a dynamic, dedicated, and engaged research group as well as a member of a multidisciplinary and multi-institution collaborative group that includes conservation professionals.

We are seeking two research technicians per location to collaborate on establishing and executing large-scale common garden experiments in Florida, Georgia and New York. Each technician will focus research efforts on only one garden and will not need to travel to the other sites. Therefore, we ask interested candidates to apply for the location that best suits their interests.

To apply: Please submit following materials to the job posting website indicated below

1. a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for this position (including your available dates), 
2. current CV or resume (with relevant coursework included), and 
3. contact information (phone number and email address) for 2 references. 

Expected duties: The successful candidate will contribute to a collaborative study of eco-evolutionary responses to climate in the partridge pea, Chamaecrista fasciculata, an annual legume that grows in disturbed habitats in central and eastern North America. The technician’s primary responsibilities involve collaborating with the PIs and other researchers to establish and maintain a large common garden experiment and to collect data from ~7,000 transplanted seeds in Florida, Georgia or New York. This work includes preparing seeds for planting, planting seeds, setting up the garden infrastructure, building open-top chambers, collecting data on traits and fitness, entering data, maintenance tasks in the garden (e.g., weeding), processing samples in the lab, and communicating with Dr. Anderson and other team members. The technician will also have opportunities to mentor and train undergraduate students and collaborate with graduate students.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in ecology, evolutionary biology, botany, or a related field
• Valid US driver’s license
• Ability to work outdoors in challenging conditions for long days
• Attention to detail; precise, neat work; ability to perform repetitive tasks
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
  
  Preferred qualifications
• Previous experience with field research in ecology, evolution, and/or botany
• Coursework in ecology, plant biology, genetics, or related fields
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Desire to train and mentor other team members
• Comfortable with manual labor, including but not limited to using common tools, light carpentry, and gardening/landscaping techniques
• Experience with troubleshooting in the field
  
  Commitment to field safety: We are committed to providing a safe field work experience for all members of the collaborative team. We are happy to discuss and address any safety-related concerns you have.
  
  Review of applications will begin on January 9, 2026 and continue until the positions are filled. Questions can be directed to Dr. Jill Anderson (jta24@uga.edu)

Inwater Research Group is hiring three full-time, seasonal, Nighttime Field Technician positions starting in late March 2026.  Inwater Research Group, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Jensen Beach, Florida whose mission is to foster marine and coastal conservation through integrated research and education.

Title: Nighttime Field Technician

Location: St. Lucie County, Florida

Period: Full-time (40 hours/week), seasonal position, March 23^rd, 2026 – September 30^th, 2026

Job Summary: The nighttime field technician position is a full-time, seasonal position responsible for the nighttime monitoring and tagging of sea turtles on South Hutchinson Island, Florida. Field technicians will participate in nighttime patrols from approximately 9pm – 5am five days a week (including weekends). Learn more about all our work here.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Conduct nightly surveys on all-terrain vehicles (ATV) on a high-density section of beach to identify and tag nesting loggerhead, green, and leatherback sea turtles
• Tag nesting turtles with flipper and Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags, and record any existing tags
• Take morphometric measurements on nesting sea turtles
• Collaborate with team members to ensure the safety and well-being of sea turtles and each other during tagging and monitoring activities
• Communicate with daytime team as needed using designated Slack channels
• Be fast-thinking, attentive, and responsive to changing weather conditions to ensure safety during patrols
• Operate an ATV in a safe manner that does not impact nesting turtles or hatchlings
• QA/QC data following patrol each night with focus on limiting errors
• Enter and validate data collected in the field into a computer database
• Perform basic maintenance and upkeep of field equipment
• Opportunistically educate the general public about turtle nesting behavior
• As needed, assist with stranding and recovery of sick, injured, or deceased sea turtles
• Assist with data collection for additional secondary research projects with potential for greater involvement in future research endeavors

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a biology field
• Must have the ability to remain awake and alert for overnight shifts (9pm – 5am)
• Must have experience identifying crawls for loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles
• Must have experience tagging and handling nesting sea turtles
• Experience verifying, marking, and excavating loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtle nests to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission INBS standards is highly preferred 
• Experience working on medium to high-density sea turtle nesting beaches (~800 crawls/km in a season) is highly preferred
• Experience using ATVs is highly preferred
• Must have the ability to work well with others in a small team and have excellent communication skills
• Must be very comfortable working alone on a beach at night and around local wildlife
• Capacity to work independently with minimal supervision
• Must have experience working under pressure and under circumstances that may require quick and independent decision making   
• Must be safety conscious
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and non-traditional hours
• Open to US citizens and permanent residents only

Benefits: Pay will be $22 an hour with opportunities for overtime. This position is not benefit-eligible.

How to Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume/CV, and three (3) references to careers@inwater.org. Clearly indicate the position title “Nighttime Field Technician” in the subject line of your email. This position will remain open until it is filled. Applications missing the required materials, the specified job title in the subject line, or lacking adequate experience will not be considered.

The USGS Great Lakes Science Center’s Tunison Laboratory of Aquatic Science (Cortland, NY) and Lake Ontario Biological Stations (Oswego, NY) are hiring up to four full-time (40 hours/week), 12-month Student Contractor positions to assist with fisheries research. We are looking for recently graduated (within the last 12-months) individuals who are excited to work collaboratively as part of a team. These are excellent positions for individuals looking to diversify their research experience prior to graduate school or beginning their career.

The pay rate is $20.81/hour for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, and $31.52/hour for those with a master’s degree. The start date is February 2026, but other start dates will be considered. These 12-month positions could be extended for an additional year depending on funding (2 years maximum).

Fish Experimentation Positions, BS/MS (Tunison Laboratory of Aquatic Science in Cortland, NY):

• These positions will primarily work in a facility conducting experiments with live fish.
• Daily live fish care, data collection and management using innovative lab techniques and field sampling tools, occasional field surveys on research vessels, sample processing, and data entry.
• Contractors will have the opportunity to learn or enhance skills using programs such as R and GIS.
• There will be weekend and night work expected, as well as the possibility of overnight travel.
• Field gear is provided, and travel will be paid for.

Large Research Vessel Position, BA/BS (Lake Ontario Biological Station in Oswego, NY):

• This individual will work as part of a team and support research associated with Lake Ontario surveys conducted on the R/V Kaho (70’ vessel) working out of Oswego, NY.
• The position requires living and working aboard a rocking vessel for periods of up to 12 days, lifting 50 pounds, and working in adverse weather conditions during the day and night.
• Laboratory work includes fish age interpretation, data management, video habitat characterization and other sample processing.
• This contractor must pass a no cost pre-employment physical, enroll in a random drug testing program and be able to obtain a passport for work in Canada.
• Field gear is provided, and travel will be paid for.

Information Management Position, BS/MS (Lake Ontario Biological Station in Oswego, NY):

• This individual will work with multiple research teams to collate, manage, and publish data associated with long-term surveys and research projects.
• They will also contribute to ongoing processes that are modernizing field and laboratory data collection and processing.
• This position will also perform reviews of data releases and manuscripts prior to publication.

Applicants should have an interest in taking care of fish in an experimental laboratory facility and assisting with field work aboard small and large vessels. The candidates should be familiar with the scientific process including following methods, recording and managing data, and analyzing results. Experience operating small vessels and fabrication/repair of laboratory equipment is preferred.

To apply, send an email to Eric Bruestle (ebruestle@usgs.gov) with the subject line “Student Contractor Position” and attach your resume/CV, unofficial transcripts, and cover letter that identifies which position you prefer. We will begin reviewing applications on 12/17/25 and continue until the position is filled.

Student Service Contract Specifics:

• Under the Student Services Program, USGS contracts directly with the student and students must be at least 18 years of age.
• Former students who graduated more than 12 months ago or left school without graduating are not eligible for this program.
• Students are not Federal Employees. They are self-employed and therefore required to report and pay their own taxes and social security. They will be issued a 1099 form.
• USGS employees, their spouses and children are not eligible to participate in this program.
• The total duration for the contract shall not exceed two calendar years.
• Student hourly rates are adjusted each calendar year that Federal Employees receive a cost of living adjustment.
• The pay rate is commensurate with the statement of work, not the level of education. Students who have more years of study than required are not necessarily paid at a higher rate than required by the work statement.
• Contractors are paid only for hours worked, with no holiday or annual leave benefits. Contractors can work more than 8 hours a day or 40 hours per week, however they get paid the same amount for each hour worked (i.e., no overtime pay rate).
• Contractors are entitled to one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked.
• Students must obtain a UEI (Unique Entity Identifier) number and register in SAM (System for award management (sam.gov)) before a contract can be issued to them. Be aware this service is free. If you are asked for payment, you are not at the right site. Documentation will be provided to make the SAM process easier.
• Non-US citizens may be eligible to participate, depending on their immigration status and applicable regulations of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (formerly Immigration and Naturalization Service).

The Myers Ecology Lab at Washington University in St. Louis (http://www.myersecologylab.com) seeks two seasonal field technicians to participate in two forest-ecology projects at the university’s field station, Tyson Research Center (http://tyson.wustl.edu): 1) a long-term study of an oak-hickory forest-dynamics plot that is part of the Forest Global Earth Observatory (ForestGEO) global network of scientists and forest research sites dedicated to advancing long-term study of the world’s forests (https://www.forestgeo.si.edu); and 2) a landscape-scale experiment investigating the importance of prescribed fire, plant-functional traits, and natural enemies as drivers of forest diversity and change. The technician will develop skills and gain experience in: 1) field protocols for censuses of long-term ForestGEO plots, including tree identification, tree mapping, and measurements of tree growth, mortality, and seed production; 2) data collection for large-scale field experiments, including surveys of plant community composition and dynamics across environmental gradients; 3) management of large data sets; 4) mentoring of undergraduate and high school students in field research; and 5) team-based ecological field research. The Myers Ecology Lab and Washington University are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Position details: This is a full-time, temporary position (up to 6 months) with no benefits. Candidates interested in a shorter position (minimum of 3 months) are also encouraged to apply. Wages will be commensurate with experience. The position is available starting between April 1 and May 18, 2026. The successful applicant will need to secure their own housing in St. Louis or near Tyson Research Center (20 miles from campus). Located on the edge of the Ozark ecoregion, Tyson Research Center is a 2000-acre field station dedicated to multi-scale research, teaching, and collaboration across disciplines, institutions, and levels of academic training.

Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a related field (e.g. biology, ecology, forestry); experience conducting field research; excellent teamwork skills; ability to work outdoors under a range of conditions that include hot or cold weather, mosquitoes and ticks, and steep terrain; enthusiasm to learn new concepts and field skills.

Preferred qualifications: A strong interest in ecology; experience working in a field team; experience with plant identification, especially in temperate forests.

To apply: Please submit 1) a cover letter describing your interest in this position, how the position would advance your career goals, relevant experience, start date availability, and contact information for three references including e-mail addresses and phone numbers; and 2) a CV or resume. Application materials must be submitted electronically through https://jobs.washu.edu by entering the job ID number (JR91482) as a keyword on the Search WashU Jobs page. Review of applications will begin January 5, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. Candidates are strongly encouraged to e-mail Dr. Jonathan Myers (jamyers@wustl.edu) to indicate interest in the position as soon as possible using the subject line “Seasonal Ecology Technician”. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Jonathan Myers, website: myersecologylab.com.

We are recruiting 1-2 field technicians to contribute to an NSF-funded study that combines approaches from evolutionary biology, field ecology, and population genomics in a broadly distributed native plant species (Chamaecrista fasciculata, Fabaceae) to forecast population dynamics range-wide under climate change. 

Location: Raleigh and Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Pay: $20/hour

Expected duties: The successful candidate will contribute to a collaborative study of eco-evolutionary responses to climate in the partridge pea, Chamaecrista fasciculata, an annual legume that grows in disturbed habitats in central and eastern North America. The technician’s primary responsibilities involve establishing and maintaining a large common garden experiment (~6,500 plants) at Mason Farm Biological Reserve in Chapel Hill, NC. This includes preparing seeds for planting, planting seeds, setting up the garden infrastructure, building open-top chambers, collecting data on traits and fitness, entering data, maintenance tasks in the garden (e.g., weeding), and processing samples in the lab. The technician will also have opportunities to train and mentor undergraduate students and work with graduate students.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in ecology, evolutionary biology, botany, or a related field
• Valid US driver’s license
• Ability to work outdoors in challenging conditions for long days
• Previous experience with field research in ecology, evolution, and/or botany
• Attention to detail; precise, neat work; ability to perform repetitive tasks
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills

Preferred qualifications

• Coursework in ecology, plant biology, genetics, or related fields
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs

• Desire to train and mentor other team members
• Comfortable with manual labor, including but not limited to using common tools, light carpentry, and gardening/landscaping techniques
• Experience with troubleshooting in the field

Commitment to field safety: We are committed to providing a safe field work experience for all members of the collaborative team. We are happy to discuss and address any safety-related concerns you have.

About NC State and the Raleigh area: NC State’s Department of Plant and Microbial Biology offers a highly-rated research environment and is situated in a collaborative and scientifically stimulating atmosphere in the Research Triangle, with both UNC Chapel Hill and Duke University nearby. There is a vibrant and growing community of ecologists and evolutionary biologists spread across multiple departments on campus, including Applied Ecology, Biological Sciences, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Forestry and Environmental Resources, Soil and Crop Sciences, and Biochemistry, among others, many of whom participate in a weekly Evolutionary Genetics meeting. Raleigh is a lively yet affordable city with a high standard of living, and its surroundings offer numerous recreational activities.

To apply: Please email the following materials to https://jobs.ncsu.edu/postings/225009: 

Applications submitted via e-mail will not be considered. 

1. a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for this position (including your available dates), 
2. current CV or resume (with relevant coursework included), and 
3. contact information (phone number and email address) for 2 references. 

Review of applications will begin on December 10 and continue until the position is filled. Due to the large volume of applicants, we will not be able to respond to individual emails about this position or meet with applicants prior to submission of application materials.

The Mississippi State University Marine Fisheries Ecology Program (https://msucoastal.com/marine-fisheries/) is seeking applicants for an internship position working under the direction of Dr. Marcus Drymon and Extension Associates at the Coastal Research and Extension Center (CREC) in Biloxi, MS. This paid internship begins March 16th and ends October 15th.

The roles of the intern will fall into three categories: field, laboratory, and outreach/education. The first category involves assisting with shark bottom longline surveys throughout the northern Gulf of Mexico. Specifically, the intern will be responsible for preparing gear, performing shark and fish dissections, collecting samples, and recording and entering data. The second category involves completing various laboratory processing tasks using samples collected during the bottom longline surveys. The third category involves helping with outreach and education events and developing materials to use at these events. Travel for field work and outreach events may be necessary.

Qualifications:

• B.S. or B.A. in biological sciences (must be graduated by March 2026).
• Valid driver’s license.
• Preferred: Experience working on small and/or large vessels, handling fish, collecting samples and data, and conducting field surveys (e.g., trawl, gillnet, quadrat, etc.).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Good organizational skills and ability to work independently.
• Knowledge and skill with computer programs, including Microsoft Office, QGIS, Photoshop, etc.
• Ability to speak with outside groups, particularly in an education setting.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

• Able and willing to spend long days on a boat, potentially in extreme weather conditions, including rough seas.
• Able and willing to work on a flexible schedule, which may include overnight trips, weekends, evenings, and holidays.
• Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
• Work involves considerable physical activity. It requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling is required of objects up to 50 pounds. Physical work is a primary part (more than 70%) of job.

Applying:

Link to apply: https://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/en-us/job/509882/intermittent-worker

All applicants must apply online at www.jobs.msstate.edu by submitting a cover letter, resume or vitae, copy of your unofficial transcripts, and contact information for up to 3 references. Any social security numbers included on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online.

Application deadline is 11:59 PM on January 1, 2026.

Questions? Contact the Marine Fisheries Ecology Program at marinefisheriesecology@gmail.com

The FOR-NM Project (Forest Research for New Mexico Water and Carbon Management) seeks applications for a Research Scientist 3 position with a focus on data management. The Data Manager will join the Webster Lab (https://websterlab.weebly.com/).

We are looking for a motivated and organized person with a background (MS degree preferred) in ecology, data analytics, remote sensing, GIS, and/or hydrology to join our team. This multi-institutional research program spans five institutions across the state of New Mexico including collaboration with Sandia National Laboratory. The project aims to improve management of New Mexico’s forested watersheds by addressing key gaps in understanding of water and carbon dynamics in relation to forest management.

Duties include collating and managing data with version-controlled programmatic workflows in R and/or Python, including large volumes of high-frequency sensor data and model outputs; working with investigators to design and deliver data products to open access repositories; and training participants to track and quality control data. Interest in participating in field work as approximately 15% of duties is strongly desired. Expertise in working with environmental sensor data and geospatial data (including remote sensing products) is required.

This position will be based at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, NM. Partial but not fully remote work options can be considered for exceptional candidates.

The position will start as soon as possible and will be hired on a 1-year contract, with the expectation of renewal for additional years pending satisfactory performance. The position’s online application is open and applications will be reviewed until the position is filled. Apply here: https://unm.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/18/home/requisition/34895?c=unm&sq=req34895&referral

Please contact Dr. Alex Webster (awebster2@unm.edu) with questions.

Dr. Aaron Hogan’s Forest Dynamics Lab in the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology at Texas A&M University seeks post-baccalaureate volunteer tree census interns to help establish a large, permanent forest dynamics plot.

DESCRIPTION: An initial tree census of the 20-Ha Cooks Branch Forest Dynamics Plot in the Cooks Branch Conservancy, near Montgomery, Texas (about an hour southeast of Texas A&M University at College Station), will be carried out in 2026. Volunteer post-bachelor’s degree interns seeking field ecology experience will complete the tree census work over 6 months beginning mid-January 2026. After training in census protocols, tree identification, and data management standards, volunteers will work in the forest, measuring and mapping trees within marked grids. Volunteers work together in small groups under the supervision of a field technician, spending workdays in the field (8 am until 4 pm, Monday-Friday, with weekends free) in the outdoor conditions of the East Texas Piney Woods forest.

While in Texas, volunteers will have the opportunity to learn about diverse aspects of forest and savannah ecology, wildlife ecology, and conservation biology from scientists conducting research at Cooks Branch and at the Department of Ecology and Conservation Biology at Texas A&M University. Dr. Hogan and other research personnel will engage in capacity building and mentorship activities with interns.

PROBABLE DURATION: beginning January 15, 2025, with a tentative 6-month appointment (until July 15, 2026).

STIPEND: $1000 per month to cover food and general living expenses.

ACCOMMODATION: Living quarters for the tree census group will be provided in a field house at the Cooks Branch Conservancy, Montgomery. TX. Housing is communal, using shared resources. Transportation will be available.

TRAVEL: Reimbursement of up to $500 (250$ per one-way ticket, if ticket price exceeds 500$) towards a round-trip plane ticket from within the United States. 

NOTE: This is an unpaid internship to give post-bachelor’s degree individuals hands-on experience in the field. We are unable to provide health insurance.

REQUIREMENTS: College graduates with excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, preferably with a background in biology, ecology, or environmental science, field-work experience, and knowledge of plant identification. Experience working in forests with tree/plant inventory is useful but not required. We are currently only considering US citizens and permanent US residents for these opportunities. Applicants must pass a background check.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:  To be considered, please fill out this online application:  https://forms.gle/utABE6A8jV2zJvZ29

Completed applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until positions are filled, with an application end date of December 15th, 2025.

You may email any questions or inquiries about these positions to aaron.hogan@ag.tamu.edu.

The Levine Lab, in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University, is seeking a full-time research assistant to contribute to projects on eco-evolutionary dynamics involving competing orchard flies. These projects will include a combination of outdoor mesocosm experiments, field collections, and laboratory-based measurements of evolution at the phenotypic and genomic levels. The position may also include work on a meta-analytic analysis of previous studies of competitor-induced evolution. Candidates will be selected based on their ability to contribute to both the field and lab components of the projects.

We aim to have the successful applicant start on January 1, 2026, though there is some flexibility. The initial contract will be for one year, but the duration of the position is flexible. The project timeline requires full-time work and is unable to accommodate part-time work spread over a longer period. Remote work is not a possibility. The work is based on campus at Princeton, though will require travel to other field locations.

Projects will include a combination of the following activities:
• Outdoor mesocosm experiments
• Field collections
• Laboratory-based measurements of evolution at the phenotypic and genomic levels

The position may also include: Work on a meta-analytic analysis of previous studies of competitor-induced evolution.

Qualifications:

Essential Qualifications: The candidate must be able to work independently, manage time, and communicate progress and obstacles. We expect the candidate to have college/university-level coursework in biology, zoology, botany, ecology, environmental science, or related disciplines. The candidate must be able to lift heavy equipment (up to 50 pounds) and must have a valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications: Though not required, the ideal candidate will have experience in one or more of the following:
• Insect rearing and collection (especially of Drosophilid flies)
• Field research in ecology and/or evolution
• Genomic sequencing
• Reading and summarizing information from primary scientific literature or online databases

https://research-princeton.icims.com/jobs/21272/research-specialist-i/job?hub=15&_gl=1xinta3_gaMTY3NTE0NTg1OS4xNzYxOTI0Mzg5_ga_5Y2BYGL910*czE3NjE5MjQzODkkbzEkZzEkdDE3NjE5MjQzOTYkajUzJGwwJGgw&mobile=false&width=1497&height=500&bga=true&needsRedirect=false&jan1offset=-300&jun1offset=-240

RF Fisheries Technicians (2 positions available): These are full-time, field-intensive positions responsible for executing time-sensitive research operations focused on native fish reproduction in the Great Lakes basin.

• Key Responsibilities: Plan and execute field sampling campaigns; deploy and retrieve specialized equipment, such as egg and larval traps; operate research vessels (up to 26 ft); and assist with sample processing and equipment maintenance.
• Required Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries, Aquatic Ecology, or a related field, 1-2 years of aquatic field research experience, and experience with boat operation and standard sampling techniques (e.g., electrofishing, netting).
• Preferred Qualifications: Experience working on Great Lakes ecosystems and familiarity with native fish identification.
• Compensation: $19 – $22 per hour ($37,050 – $42,900 annually), plus an excellent benefits package.

RF Lab Technician: This full-time position is a critical support role that forms the foundation of our lab’s success. The role is primarily lab-based but includes opportunities for fieldwork.

• Key Responsibilities: Precise execution of core molecular techniques including DNA extraction, PCR, Sanger sequencing, and next-gen library preparation (GT-seq, RAD-seq). Assist with lab management, including supply monitoring and organization of sample repositories.
• Required Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field, with hands-on experience in DNA extraction and PCR. Must have strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Preferred Qualifications: Prior experience in a research lab setting, knowledge of conservation genetics principles, and proficiency with R or Python.
• Compensation: $33,150 – $39,000 annually, plus an excellent benefits package.

To Apply:

Please use the links below to submit your application materials. A complete application consists of a cover letter, a resume/CV, a statement on your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, contact information for three professional references, and a copy of your transcripts.

• Apply for RF Fisheries Technician: [Click Application Link Here]
• Apply for RF Lab Technician: [Click Application Link Here]

The SUNY RF offers comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans as well as retirement options. Each position also includes generous paid time-off (PTO), sick leave, and 13 paid holidays each year. Please note that visa sponsorship is not available for these positions.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email the Search Chair, Lyndsie Collis, at lyndsie.collis@oswego.edu.

Adventure Scientists is a nonprofit that trains volunteers to collect data from hard-to-reach places that drive solutions for our planet. We partner with researchers and land/water agencies to collect the data they need. Our current projects are in the Pacific Northwest (California, Oregon, and Washington), Latin America, and Indonesia, and are helping to protect endangered marine mammals, threatened trees, forest biodiversity, corals, and mangroves. We are also always on the lookout for new opportunities to support actionable research that has a data gap!

We are growing our communications department to help tell stories that amplify important conservation work and empower the public to get involved. We are searching for an Impact Marketing Manager to support our work. This is a full-time remote role based in the U.S. We are also hiring for two seasonal fellowships in the PNW that combine field research and content creation: Orcas Field and Marketing Fellow and Whitebark Pine Field and Marketing Fellow. These fellowships are a great opportunity for people who have flexible schedules and want to get involved in conservation, field work, and storytelling.

Experienced researchers with skills in pollinator or plant ecology techniques are invited to apply for *four* open research technician positions. All positions are full time for three—six months at $18-25 per hour. Field research will take place in New England but is affiliated with Rachael Winfree’s lab group (winfreelab.com) at Rutgers University and Katie Turo’s lab group (katieturo.com) at Fordham University. All field technicians would be based at the Louis Calder Biological Field Station in Armonk, NY.

Research Project: Evidence-based conservation for native bees in northeastern deciduousforests. This project is an NSF-funded collaboration between 2 academic institutions (Rutgers University, Fordham University) and 2 conservation non-profit organizations (Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, Audubon Society).

Positions 1-3: Technicians will examine how habitat managed for bird conservation affects native bee communities in northern hardwood forests. Fieldwork will take place throughout the northeast (CT, NY, VT) and will be based at Fordham University’s Field Station in Armonk, NY. Fieldwork will focus on collecting bees with active netting and passive pan trapping. The selected applicants will also work as a team to collect field data including stand composition, coarse woody debris, and floral abundance, as well as assisting with database tasks (pinning, identification). All housing and vehicles for transportation to fieldwork sites will be provided. Previous ecological field experience is essential; experience with native bees and/or forest inventory is strongly preferred. Target start date is March 31, 2026, $18-$22 per hour.

Position 4: A lead field technician will contribute to the above tasks and in addition be responsible for leading the research team during day-to-day activities. The lead technician will direct data collection while ensuring data quality and field safety, coordinate sampling logistics, serve as the point of contact for partnering landowners, and organize/order research supplies and equipment. In addition, prior to the start of the data collection, the lead field tech would be responsible for setting up canopy lines in research sites to facilitate canopy pan trapping (training will be provided). Previous leadership experience and ecological field research experience is essential; experience with native bees and/or forest inventory is strongly preferred. Target start date is February 1, 2026, $22-$25 per hour.

Positions 1-3 are for three months, from April through June. Based on performance and technician’s interest, there are opportunities for field technicians to extend their positions beyond the spring field season by assisting with either/or insect specimen processing and molecular analysis of pollen. Position 4 lasts four months or longer, depending on the preference of the hired candidate.

Additional qualifications: B.A. or B.S. degree in ecology or a related field, experience collecting ecological data and managing field research projects, strong organizational and logistical skills, ability to work independently for long hours under challenging field conditions, demonstrated commitment to data accuracy, very strong letters of reference, and a valid driver’s license (field vehicles will be provided, but field technicians must drive to sites) ). If technicians are interested in laboratory-based positions, experience with insect specimen curation and/or basic molecular techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis, multichannel pipettes) is desired.

To apply: A letter of interest including your dates of availability, CV, which positions you are interested in, and contact information for three references who can speak to your field research skills and ability to do independent research. Combine all documents into a single PDF and name your file “Firstname_Lastname_NativeBee.pdf”. Then, email to Dr. Katie Turo (turo@fordham.edu). Use “native bee tech” as the subject line. Applications will be considered starting immediately and until the positions are filled.

The Land Institute co-leads the global movement for perennial, diverse, regenerative grain agriculture at a scale that matches the enormity of the intertwined climate, water, and food security crises. An independent 501c3 non-profit founded in 1976, the organization seeks to reconcile the human economy with nature’s economy, starting with food. The transdisciplinary team of scientists, together with global partners, is developing new perennial grain crops, like Kernza©, and diverse cropping systems that function within nature’s limits while researching the social transformation required for a just, perennial human future. 

https://landinstitute.org/about-us/careers The Land Institute hires multiple temporary Research Assistants fall through spring with housing provided. Learn about perennial grain research, plant breeding, soil ecology, and greenhouse operations as a Research Assistant with us!

This unique internship is a collaborative effort between the Mount Washington Observatory (MWOBS), Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), and Hubbard Brook Research Foundation. Each organization contributes to public understanding of the weather, climate, and ecology of the White Mountains region of New Hampshire. The focus of this internship will be on creating a yearly almanac that effectively communicates changes to the climatology and biology of the White Mountains to a general audience. 

Information about Research Internships at Archbold Biological Station, Venus, Florida.  These are generally 9-months or more, and designed for post-baccs considering graduate school in an ecological focus.

Careers page with current internship openings.

Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies is dedicated to understanding how ecosystems work. Our scientists are global experts in the ecology of: freshwater, forests, disease, and cities. Through collaborative efforts, we apply our science to policy and management that protects the environment and improves human well-being. The Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies campus is in Millbrook, NY.

The Chicago Botanic Garden sponsors many internships and jobs in various aspects of ecological research, all over the US. 

• Internships at Chicago Botanic
• Employment at Chicago Botanic

The Wetlands Institute is a non-profit organization in southern New Jersey whose mission is to promote appreciation, understanding, and stewardship of wetlands and coastal ecosystems through our programs in research, education, and conservation. 

• Internships at Wetlands Institute  
• Employment at Wetlands Institute

The University of Montana (UM) O’Connor Center for the Rocky Mountain West (OCRMW) employs many seasonal field technicians through their Ecological Mapping, Monitoring, and Analysis (EMMA) program, which supports informed management of public lands in the West. EMMA’s cadre of trained ecologists and biologists collect data in upland, wetland, and aquatic habitats, using protocols developed by our own team and by partner agencies. Our GIS and data specialists map wetlands and riparian areas and assist EMMA scientists with the analysis of spatial and tabular data sets.

Northwoods Stewardship Center has various seasonal internship and job opportunities.

Several organizations sponsor and organize Seeds of Success (SOS) crews throughout the US west during the field season:

• Institute for Applied Ecology
• Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
• Chicago Botanic Garden (search for “technician” or “seeds”): Our Conservation and Land Management Program (CLM) offers real-world experience to recent college graduates and early-career professionals interested in land management, applied ecology, botany, and native seed collection.  We hire folks to work with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), US Forest Service (USFS), and US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).  SOS positions include Field Technicians and Botanists.  These positions will start between February and early June, and end between August and late October, depending on the location.

Please direct questions to Chris Woolridge at: cwoolridge@chicagobotanic.org. 

The National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) is a continental-scale observation facility funded by the National Science Foundation and operated by Battelle. The NEON program is designed to collect long-term, open-access ecological data to better understand how U.S. ecosystems are changing, from freshwater systems such as streams, rivers, and lakes to terrestrial systems spanning tropical forests to deserts to tundra.  

See Work Opportunities at NEON

The Great Basin Institute is an interdisciplinary field studies organization that promotes environmental research, education, and service through the west. GBI recruits Field Technicians to work with GBI and BLM staff for the field season. https://thegreatbasininstitute.org/employment/

The Jones Center at Ichauway hires various seasonal technicians throughout the year. On-site housing is provided on a limited basis but is optional. 

Woodwell Climate Research Center seeks applicants for multiple field assistant positions:  Careers – Woodwell

The Walker Basin Conservancy leads the effort to restore and maintain Walker Lake while protecting agricultural, environmental and recreational interests in the Walker Basin. The Conservancy acquires water rights and ranches to increase freshwater flows to Walker Lake, re-establishes native plant communities on former agricultural fields, increases public access and recreation opportunities, and develops practical solutions to save Walker Lake. 

National Council for Air and Stream Improvement, Inc. (NCASI) hires multiple field biologists for the field season, including Post-fire Riparian Vegetation, Aquatic Ecology, Pollinators, birds & bats, and red tree voles. The research projects take place in Oregon and Northern California. Position lengths and start/end dates vary. Careers – NCASI.

Conservation Corps throughout the US host crews and interns for research, conservation, education, and interpretation.

Internships of various lengths with varied foci – botany, ecology, trails, resources, history, etc.  There are group internship programs where you’d be one of many, and also designated “individual placement” internships.

General Benefits: Living Stipend, Housing or housing allowance, training; AmeriCorps Education Award, and often a certificate that allows for competitive hiring for US government jobs.

• American Association for the Advancement of Science
• American Institute of Biological Sciences
• Association of Zoos & Aquariums
• Conservation Job Board
• Dynamic Ecology
• Ecological Society of America
• EcoJobs
• National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
• Ornithological Council
• Society for Conservation Biology
• Society for the Study of Evolution
• Texas A&M Natural Resources Job Board
• The Wildlife Society