Field Technician (Wood Turtles)

Essential Job Functions

Field Technicians assist ZNE Field Biologists and other staff with ZNE’s local rare species conservation projects. The Wood Turtle Field Technician will specifically assist with conducting standardized visual surveys, radiotracking, searching for nesting turtles, and setting and checking camera traps. The technician will also keep careful notes, regularly input field data into online databases, and assist with data analysis and map generation and will generally participate in the design of the new research endeavor that will be the focus of their work.

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Conducts standardized biological surveys of animals and plants for ZNE’s field conservation management and research projects


2. Collects accurate and complete data and assists other Field Conservation Department staff with initial reporting and analysis


3. Meets weekly with Field Conservation Department staff to discuss and plan field activities

Hours, Location and Term of Appointment

• Wage: $20/hour


• Term: Apr 28 - September 12, 2025 (start and end day may be  negotiable, with possibility for extension up to 2 weeks total)


• Location: Our Conservation Department office is in Acton, MA, but the technician will travel throughout eastern Massachusetts


• Hours: Usually 9:00am-5:00pm Monday-Friday, EXCEPT during June nesting season when hours will shift to 2:00pm-10:00pm Thursday - Monday.

Working Conditions

• Frequent exposure and close contact with a variety of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects, including direct handling of large snapping turtles and other potentially injurious wildlife, as well as exposure to ticks, mosquitos, and other biting arthropods


• Frequent field work in difficult natural conditions, including wetlands, streams, and brush thickets


• Frequent exposure to varying and challenging weather conditions (e.g. heat, rain, snow, ice), and to dust, and allergens.

Minimum Job Requirements

• At least two years post-secondary education, pursuing a degree in biology, ecology or related field


• Able to work nights and weekends during the month of June


• Must possess a valid driver's' license and be able to lawfully drive in Massachusetts and transport field materials and equipment in personal vehicle


• Must have no criminal history, convictions, in relation to animal-related issues, child welfare

 Preferred Job Requirements

• One season applied field research experience, especially with freshwater turtles or other herpetofauna


• Prior experience with radiotelemetry


• Ability to identify common native plants, especially of wetland environments