Entomology Museum Technician; Essig Museum of Entomology

Job

Location:

Main Campus-Berkeley

Full/Part Time:
Part Time

The Essig Museum is a world‑class research collection of insects and spiders with over five million specimens largely from western North America, with additional representation from Pacific Islands, Chile, Central America, and other regions. Although the collection was inaugurated in 1939, some specimens date back to the 1880s. The collection continues to grow through the research enterprises of faculty, staff, and students, including biodiversity surveys, ecology and behavioral studies, and taxonomy and systematic research.

First Review Date:
June 11, 2026

The Essig Museum will incorporate and curate the UC Berkeley biological control insect collection, which represents a specimen‑based history of biological control in California. The collection includes specimens, stored in various ways, and their associated meta‑data. The position serves as the primary technical staff member responsible for incorporating these specimens and information into the museum's collection, including digitization efforts and the use of laboratory procedures as necessary.

• 45% Enter and verify specimen information including locality, collection date, and related notes from specimen labels and historical card files into the museums database to ensure accurate digital records and accessibility.
• 30% Prepare and preserve insect specimens by pinning or point‑mounting unmounted materials according to museum standards. This may involve rehydrating fragile or dried specimens prior to handling to ensure proper positioning and minimize damage.
• 15% Assign and attach unique Essig Museum catalog numbers to individual specimens to support accurate identification, tracking, and long‑term collection management.
• 10% Assist with the organization, labeling, storage, and general maintenance of the Bio Control collection in accordance with Essig Museum curation standards to support preservation, accessibility, and research use.

• Understands the operation of lab equipment.
• General knowledge and experience in entomology, including taxonomy.
• Strong organizational skills, detail‑oriented, good record‑keeping.
• Ability to work independently and reliably.
• Good interpersonal skills and communication ability.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.

• Master of Science in Entomology or related field, or equivalent in lab and/or field experience.
• Advanced knowledge of entomology, including collecting techniques, preservation, and identification.

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs.

It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

The budgeted hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $28.69.

• This is a part‑time (32 hours/week) Career position eligible for UC benefits.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

• This recruitment has 1 opening.
• This position is governed by the terms and conditions in the agreement for the Research Support Professionals Unit (RX) between the University of California and the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE). The current bargaining agreement manual can be found at: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..html
• This is not a visa opportunity. This…