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, radio tracking, 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.

Hours:

Usually 9:00 am–5:00 pm Monday‑Friday, except during June nesting season when hours shift to 2:00 pm–10:00 pm Thursday‑Monday.

Location:

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

Term:
April 14 – September 4 , 2026 (start and end day may be negotiable, with possibility for extension up to 2 weeks total). Wage: $20 per hour.

• Frequent exposure and close contact with a variety of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects; direct handling of large snapping turtles and other potentially injurious wildlife; exposure to ticks, mosquitoes, 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), dust, and allergens.

• At least two years post‑secondary education, pursuing a degree in biology, ecology or related field.
• Ability 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 a personal vehicle.
• Must have no criminal history or convictions related to animal‑related issues or child welfare.

• One season of 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.