Eastern Invertebrate and Rare Plant Temporary Technicians – Denver

Eastern Invertebrate and Rare Plant Temporary Technicians – Denver

Temporary position (9 months or less) – Pay $20.00‑$22.00 per hour.
9‑month position:
Employment starts 04/01/2026 through 12/30/2026.
6‑month position:
Employment starts 04/01/2026 through 09/30/2026.

To apply, submit application, resume, and a list of 3 references (no cover letter). We plan to notify applicants within two weeks after the closing date. Interviews will likely be scheduled the week of February 9‑13.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is hiring temporary positions within the Species Conservation for Invertebrates and Rare Plants (SCIP) unit. SCIP focuses on studying and conserving invertebrates and rare plants statewide. This position assists in inventorying and monitoring invertebrates and rare plants across Colorado. Based in Denver, the team works primarily in the Eastern half of the state, traveling statewide to conduct surveys, process samples, aid specimen identification, and enter data.

Two technicians will be hired to work collaboratively under the direct supervision of CPW’s Eastern Rare Plant and Invertebrate Conservation Biologist. One 9‑month and one 6‑month technician will be hired.

• Perform invertebrate and rare plant surveys & monitoring across ecosystems throughout Colorado in both front‑country and back‑country settings, with variable hours.
• Collect information on newly discovered or existing invertebrate and rare plant populations.
• Aid in statewide monitoring for the Bumble Bee Atlas, including training local CPW staff to conduct surveys.
• Collaborate with partners across state, federal, and nonprofit agencies in coordinated monitoring efforts.
• Coordinate with volunteers and other state staff to collect repeat data at strategically placed bee blocks.
• Plan field visits, including assisting with logistical planning, gear management, preparing maps, and coordinating with local stakeholders and property managers.
• Enter, process, and analyze data gathered during the field season to inform state management decisions and outreach materials.
• Compile data into reports for internal and external outreach.

• Valid driver’s license required for operating a state vehicle.
• Able to travel statewide for multiple days Monday‑Friday for at least 60% of the field season (typically April‑September).
• Able to work unconventional hours on occasion (nocturnal invertebrate surveys).
• Experience with backcountry travel under variable weather conditions.
• Must be willing to camp for multiple nights in remote areas of the state.
• Excellent organization, time‑management, collaboration, and communication skills.
• Self‑motivated, proactive, attentive to detail, and able to work efficiently independently in a small team and with diverse partners and landowners.

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, ecology, botany, rangeland science, or other closely related field – or at least 2 years of related experience.
• Experience conducting monitoring surveys, inventories, or other field research on invertebrates and/or rare plants.
• Experience with invertebrate and/or Colorado plant identification.
• Experience following rigorous protocols for data collection and data entry.
• Proficient in ESRI GIS applications including Arc Map/Arc Pro, ArcGIS Online and Collector/Field Maps.
• Strong scientific and technical writing skills.
• Experience with data entry and analysis.

Temporary employees participate in PERA (State employee retirement program) and accrue paid sick leave. No medical benefits, paid holidays, or paid vacation. Sick leave rolls over upon rehire. Opportunities for professional development and networking with diverse partners across the state in natural resources and conservation.

We will happily discuss and provide ADA accommodations at any time.

The State of Colorado believes that equity, diversity, and inclusion drive our success, and we encourage candidates from all identities, backgrounds, and abilities to apply. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities…