Wildlife Research Technician

Apply By: Friday, July 31, 2026 11:59 pm EDT

Science and Research Branch, Provincial Services Division

City:

Peterborough

Position(s) language:

Job term:

1 Temporary assignment/contract for up to 7 months, with the possibility of extension

Job code:

$27.49 - $30.60 Per hour
* * Indicates the salary listed as per the OPSEU Collective Agreement.

Are you a highly motivated individual with an interest in science and research? Here's your chance to apply your skills and knowledge to an exciting position with the Wildlife Research & Monitoring Section (WRMS) of the Ministry of Natural Resources, supporting Chronic Wasting Disease surveillance and preparedness.

The Ontario Public Service (OPS) is committed to being an employer of first choice, creating a positive and inclusive work environment.

We offer:

• a defined benefit pension plan
• comprehensive health plan
• life and disability insurance
• collegial and professional work culture
• career growth and development opportunities across multiple business areas
• on-the-job training to support your success in the role

In this position you will carry out a variety of technical duties and program responsibilities associated with the delivery of wildlife research, such as:

• provide technical oversight and direction for both lab and field programs
• inventory and procurement of supplies, equipment and services
• ensure integrity and safe operations of lab and field personnel, equipment, microscopes and vehicles
• ensure equipment is maintained in excellent condition; follow and contribute to the standard lab and field procedures and protocols for testing and monitoring for the presence of wildlife disease
• conduct preliminary necropsies in a containment level 2 laboratory
• ensure accurate data collection both in the lab and the field through use of paper data sheets or electronic devices such as computers, data loggers or tablets; accurately compile field and laboratory data and perform basic statistical analysis such as mean, standard deviation and range
• communicate with both internal and external partners and public

Please note that you will be working in inclement weather conditions (rain, snow, heat, cold), and may travel extensively for long periods of time during projects throughout the province of Ontario.

• You must have a valid class 'G' driver's licence or equivalent, as recognized by the Province of Ontario. The offer of employment is conditional upon the successful candidate providing proof that they have a valid driver's licence upon being hired.
• You are willing and able to be vaccinated against the rabies virus and maintain adequate antibody titre.

• You have expertise in field and laboratory techniques, including use of live-traps, microscopes, general lab practices and use of field equipment to collect data and process animal specimens for biological data and sample collection.
• You have working knowledge of animal anatomy and histology to perform necropsies and collect biological material both in the field and in the lab.
• You have working knowledge of wildlife research and monitoring techniques and principles to plan, organize and implement projects.

• You have demonstrated proficiency with computer software used in word processing data collection and entry.
• You have a working knowledge of GIS, GPS and mobile/electronic data collection technology and associated file types to plan, map and report on field and lab programs.
• You have an understanding of basic statistics to complete preliminary summaries including analysis of data to determine such variables as mean, standard deviation and range.

• You have the demonstrated ability to work with minimal supervision, as a team member and as a leader (as required) and provide daily supervision/coaching to staff.
• You have working knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and applicable workplace regulations.

• You have the ability to communicate effectively with tact and diplomacy, to train staff, present results, and prepare reports.
• You have well developed interpersonal skills to solicit…