Temporary Technician; Peach

Overview

The vector ecology group at the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented candidate to support an applied research program focused on mosquito surveillance in agricultural and natural environments. This position centers on field sampling of mosquitoes in commercial pig barns and surrounding natural habitats, contributing to studies of vector ecology, pathogen transmission risk, and environmental drivers of mosquito abundance.

The successful candidate will conduct routine and targeted mosquito collections using a variety of trapping methods, maintain accurate field records, and ensure proper handling, labeling, and transport of specimens. Work in pig barn environments necessitating comfort around livestock, adherence to strict biosecurity protocols, and willing to operate in warm, humid, and odor-intensive conditions. Sampling in natural habitats may involve variable terrain, evening or early morning collections, and occasional overnight trap deployments.

In addition to fieldwork, the candidate will assist with general laboratory duties, including specimen sorting and identification, sample preparation, chemical handling, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and data entry. Support for research logistics—such as coordinating field schedules, preparing supplies, maintaining sampling equipment, and assisting with regulatory compliance—will also be needed.

• Fieldwork
• General lab support duties
• Data analysis and collection

Percentage Of Time: 34

Percentage Of Time: 33

• Classification
  
  Title:
  
  Temporary Technical Paraprofessional
• FLSA:
  Non-Exempt
• FTE: 1.00

The vector ecology group at the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented candidate to support an applied research program focused on mosquito surveillance in agricultural and natural environments. This position centers on field sampling of mosquitoes in commercial pig barns and surrounding natural habitats, contributing to studies of vector ecology, pathogen transmission risk, and environmental drivers of mosquito abundance.

The successful candidate will conduct routine and targeted mosquito collections using a variety of trapping methods, maintain accurate field records, and ensure proper handling, labeling, and transport of specimens. Work in pig barn environments necessitating comfort around livestock, adherence to strict biosecurity protocols, and willing to operate in warm, humid, and odor-intensive conditions. Sampling in natural habitats may involve variable terrain, evening or early morning collections, and occasional overnight trap deployments.

In addition to fieldwork, the candidate will assist with general laboratory duties, including specimen sorting and identification, sample preparation, chemical handling, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and data entry. Support for research logistics—such as coordinating field schedules, preparing supplies, maintaining sampling equipment, and assisting with regulatory compliance—will also be needed.

Ideal applicants will have training or experience in entomology, particularly mosquito identification and DNA extractions/PCR, along with foundational knowledge of chemistry relevant to attractants, repellents, or analytical procedures such as GC-MS. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative research team are essential. This role offers hands-on experience at the intersection of agricultural systems, environmental science, and vector-borne disease research.

Lift 50 lbs and be comfortable working in agricultural settings. Driving as needed for job duties.

• Is this a Position of Trust?:
  Yes
• Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?:
  No
• Does this position require a P-Card?:
  No
• Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?:
  No
• Is driving a requirement of this position?:
  Yes
• Does this position have direct interaction or…