Invertebrate Zoologist

Love nature? Then you’re going to love The Nat.    

The San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) was founded by amateur naturalists in 1874 and has played a major role in the conversation of our region. The Museum recently celebrated its 150th anniversary and completed a strategic plan focused on encouraging a love for nature, levering science and collections for conservation, and using our own voice to be here for nature.

The Nat is looking to hire one full-time, temporary Invertebrate Zoologist (Biologist I) to assist in the Invertebrate Zoology Department.

Position Summary:  

The Invertebrate Zoology assists the Curator of Invertebrate Zoology and staff with lab and field investigations of invertebrate fauna throughout southern California, with a specific focus on arachnids (especially spiders and mites). The primary responsibilities of the incumbent will be to identify, process, and collect arachnid specimens. Often works independently, but also with another Biologist as assigned.

Major Responsibilities: 

• Arachnid Identification: Work will involve familiarity with taxonomic keys or field guides to identify target organisms to genus and species. Other duties may include specimen sorting, specimen preparation (e.g., pinning), data entry, and contributions to report writing.
• Specimen Imaging: Imaging of specimens to include lab photography with in-house camera setup, including high quality 2D, image stacking, processing, and file management, using standardized protocols, and field-based photography (e.g., cell-phone photos for iNaturalist, macro photography).
• Field Collection: Collection of invertebrate specimens or data, using various traps and manual collecting, including driving to and from collection sites. Work in remote areas may require camping in field sites.

Qualifications:

• M.S. preferred, but minimally a B.S. in Biology, Entomology, Zoology, or a related discipline preferred, or a combination of outdoor experience and natural history knowledge equivalent to an undergraduate degree.
• Experience in arachnid identification, collecting, and processing techniques.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs, and hike up to three miles in rough terrain.
• Familiarity with relevant lab techniques and instruments preferred.
• Have a valid Driver’s License and a clean driving record.

Time Commitment: This is a full time, temporary position. Candidates must be able to commit to at least 29 hours per week, but will not be asked to work more than 40 hours per week. The duration of the position is 5 months.

Employees enjoy free admission into all of Balboa Park’s museums as well as free admission to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. Learn more about the Museum’s benefits here. 

Pay:  $25/hour