Research Associate II - WC - Part Time - San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION

The Research Associate II is responsible for carrying out laboratory, animal care, field and/or training initiatives in various areas of conservation research, endangered species propagation, diagnostic activities and/or community initiatives. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Wildlife Care department.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Conducts a variety of assigned research, diagnostic, husbandry, and training activities
• Collects, collates, maintains, processes, and analyzes biological samples
• Reviews results and performs additional tests, adjusts protocols, or refers questionable findings for review as needed
• Collects, records, and analyzes data utilizing spreadsheet and database systems
• Assists in developing, updating, and implementing a variety of laboratory, diagnostic, wildlife care/welfare, educational and/or field protocols, depending on the assignment
• Prepares, arranges, and maintains records for sample and/or wildlife shipments
• Documents, files, and maintains records
• Assures accuracy of laboratory, animal care, and field equipment are properly maintained and calibrated. Performs quality control and troubleshoots equipment problems

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

Candidates with experience rearing insects in a laboratory setting, implementing biosecurity measures to prevent pathogen spread within insect populations, and working toward obtaining individual U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) permits for endangered butterfly species in San Diego County are highly desirable.

• JOB EXPERIENCE
  • At least three years of experience in a laboratory, diagnostic, wildlife care and/or field research experience required.

• EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's Degree in the biological sciences or a related field or equivalent specialized training required.
  • Graduate studies and/or advanced certification or credentialing is highly desirable.

• SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
  • Trained in methodology and equipment used in the assigned area of biological research, animal care, diagnostics, social science or science communication.
  • Proficient in data and record keeping.
  • Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs.
  • Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with others in a diverse environment.
  • Able to attend to the needs of assigned research collections and/or community members.

SOME OF THE REWARDS 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
• Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Part-Time Non-Exempt Position
• Hourly Rate: $31.32

About The Salary Ranges

The posted salary range represents the full compensation potential for this role over time. Initial hiring offers are typically made within the lower to mid portion of the range and are based on a combination of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and organizational considerations. Placement near the top of the range is generally reserved for individuals who demonstrate sustained performance, growth, and expanded responsibilities in the role over time.

Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.

If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail View email address on aiapply.co. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests’ experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to View email address on aiapply.co and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.

As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.