Temporary Research Technician - Pender County, NC

Essential Job Duties

This position will assist with fieldwork, lab work, and data management for a study on the distribution and population density of the frosted elfin butterfly, a rare species proposed for listing as an endangered species. Primary fieldwork duties will occur in Holly Shelter Gamelands in Pender County. Examples include surveying sites for frosted elfin butterfly presence and abundance; measuring habitat and environmental variables;

observing and handling butterflies for demographic experiments and surveys. Lab duties include estimating floral nectar production. Data management duties include data entry. The person in this position may also contribute to outreach and communication activities related to the frosted elfin.

Position will run from 15 April 2026 – 15 June 2026.

• 20–40 hrs per week between 8‑5, M‑F.
• Required flexibility to accommodate weather and the biology of the study organism.

As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well‑being.

What we offer:

• Health Insurance for Temporary Employees
• Enhance your career with LEAD courses
• Attend non‑revenue generating sporting events for free.

Attain work‑life balance with childcare discounts, wellness & recreation membership, and wellness programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.

• Combination of training and experience required to perform duties.

• Experience in ecological field and lab research.
• Ability to follow established protocols.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work outdoors in high heat and humidity.
• Experience collecting and accurately entering data.
• Attention to detail.
• Punctuality.
• Ability to handle small, live insects.

• B.S. in Wildlife Biology, Entomology, Biology or equivalent.
• Experience working with live insects.
• Experience identifying butterflies and/or caterpillars.

• Valid driver’s license.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $16/hr.

Job Open Date: 02/09/2026.

NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability‑related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919‑513‑0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515‑2135 or workatncstate. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit. NC State University participates in E-Verify.

Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.