Invasive Species Technician (Hourly)

The Illinois Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS) Program is seeking several qualified and self-motivated individuals to work as part of its field crops monitoring team. Successful candidates will travel throughout Illinois, conducting surveys aimed at detecting new pests in corn and soybeans. Work will also be done in the lab sorting, identifying, and cataloging insect pests. This position will be located in Champaign, Illinois.

Qualifications/Job Requirements

• Background in entomology, biology, natural resources, or horticulture is desired, but not required.
• Good verbal communication skills, ability, and willingness to interact with the public are
• Candidate should be highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of working with minimal supervision.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to read and follow maps/GPS to trap sites.
• Must be able to follow insect monitoring protocols and maintain accurate, detailed records.
• Must be able to screen traps and handle insect samples.
• Will require working in adverse field conditions (heat, humidity, biting insects, etc.), travel (including driving to and from research sites) throughout the state of Illinois working irregular hours and overnights, lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. Overnight travel may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this position.

Salary: $15 per hour, depending on qualifications. Up to 40 hours per week.  

Available: May 13— August 23, 2024.