Rare Insect Field Technician - Seasonal

Overview

The Rare Insect Conservation Program (RICP) of Utah is seeking a part-time field technician to assist our crew with insect field surveys and data collection of native insect communities in Utah. RICP works closely with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) to gather data about at-risk insect taxa, associated habitat, and other ecological information necessary to develop beneficial conservation actions.

The field technician will report to the Rare Insect Conservation Coordinator. This position is temporary and part-time, though it will involve several consecutive days of survey fieldwork in October/early November, resuming again in Spring 2027. This position may extend past June 30, 2027 based on available funding.

We have several fieldwork outings planned for the end of the 2026 field season, resuming again in April 2027. Fieldwork trips are generally 3- to 6-day camping trips to remote areas in Utah to perform targeted surveys or insect species inventories. RICP crew is responsible for personal camping and hiking gear and food. Per diem will be provided cover meal costs.

No driving or use of personal vehicle expected - travel and any lodging costs are covered by RICP.

• Participate in the collection of on-site field data for focal insect species and their habitats, using GPS and mobile devices to gather georeferenced data.
• Assist RICP crew in implementing appropriate methodologies to collect reliable data.
• Assist with equipment and gear preparation (cleaning and organizing vials, nets, etc.) ahead of fieldwork trips.
• Contribute to basecamp setup/breakdown and meal preparation/cleanup during camping trips.
• Coordinate closely with Rare Insect Conservation Coordinator and Rare Insect Research Technician, and represent RICP when interfacing with survey volunteers, taxonomic experts, landowners and land managers, as needed.

Education Requirements:

• Individuals holding or currently pursuing a Bachelor's in Biology, Ecology, Entomology, or related field; work experience involving entomological field surveys will be preferred

Competency Requirements:

• Attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in data collection and analysis
• Analytical and organizational skills
• Interest in entomology, wildlife ecology and conservation
• Effective (clear, concise written and verbal) communication skills
• Teamwork and collaboration with agency colleagues and academic professionals
• Outdoor skills, environmental awareness and attention to safety in remote environments

Skills, abilities, and other requirements:

• Insect survey techniques (e.g., species identification, non-lethal sampling, basic macrophotography, etc.)
• Curiosity, affection, and respect for insects and other invertebrate wildlife
• Exemplary field collection standards (consistency, focus, reliability)
• Ability to endure long periods of physical activity in occasionally difficult field conditions
• Motivated individual with a knack for creative problem solving

This position is mainly outdoors and requires moderate physical activity. Employees must have sufficient strength to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position including moderate lifting (up to 50 pounds), walking, hiking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting. This position requires nearly continuous standing, repetitive hand motions, and reaching overhead. Employees may be exposed to unusual elements including extreme temperatures, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Employees may also come into contact with irritants involving vegetation and insects.

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah's premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges.

Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State's 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU…