San Clemente Island Wildlife Care Research Assistant I

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION
The Research Assistant assists with some or all of the following tasks: the gathering and analysis of research data from the laboratory or the field; attending to the needs of animals in managed care, plants, biological samples, and/or community members. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health department.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Perform a variety of laboratory, diagnostic, animal care, educational, and/or field duties.
• Collect, collate, maintain, process, and/or analyze records relevant to current projects (e.g., biological samples).
• Prepare, arrange, and maintain records for sample and/or wildlife shipments.
• Collect and record data utilizing spreadsheet and database systems.
• Document, file, and maintain records.
• Maintain supply inventories and prepares purchase requisitions.
• Assist with repair and maintain of equipment and supplies.
• Learn and master project or program processes.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) Conservation Science department is seeking a highly qualified and motivated candidate to provide avian husbandry for the conservation breeding flock of San Clemente Loggerhead Shrikes housed on San Clemente Island, a U.S. Navy base. The ideal candidate will have previous experience in avian husbandry, and experience with hand rearing is a plus. The ability to use independent and critical thinking to respond appropriately to expected and unexpected animal care situations is essential, as well as the ability to follow detailed protocols and procedures. Selected candidates may be required to spend nights at the conservation breeding facility when sick, injured birds, and young chicks are present.

The U.S. Navy provides transportation (40-minute flight from Naval Air Station North Island) to and from the island at the beginning and end of the workweek. For this reason, candidates must be available to work a flexible schedule including weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Room and board is also provided by the U.S. Navy for the 5 or 10-day workweek (shifts include 5 days on and 2 days off, or 10 days on and 4 days off) on the Island.

JOB EXPERIENCE

• Some experience and/or certification in conducting laboratory or field-based research is preferred.
• Experience with science communication or interpretation of scientific concepts preferred.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in biology, zoology, botany, or a related field or equivalent specialized training required.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Training in methodology and equipment used in the assigned area of biological research, animal care, diagnostics, social science, or science communication required.
• Ability to operate moderately complex computer software programs required.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing required.
• Ability to attend to the needs of assigned research collections and/or community members required.
• Ability to learn and perform data and sample gathering techniques required.
• Ability to work effectively with others in a diverse environment and with diverse populations required.

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: San Clemente Island, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Full-Time Nonexempt Position
• Hourly Range: $23.41 to $25.89