Conservation Genetics Research Associate I - Temporary Part Time - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.

HOW YOU WILL IMPACT OUR MISSION The Research Associate I performs assigned laboratory, wildlife/plant care, field duties and/or training initiatives in support of a variety of research, endangered species propagation, and/or community initiatives. The position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Conservation Science Department.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Perform a variety of laboratory, diagnostic, wildlife care, and/or field duties, depending on the assignment.
• Collect, collate, maintain, process, and analyze records relevant to current projects (e.g., data and biological samples).
• Collect, record and analyze data utilizing spreadsheet and database systems.
• Document, file, and maintain records.
• Conduct a variety of assigned research, husbandry, and training activities.
• Work with team of administrative assistant to maintain supply inventories and prepare purchase requisitions.
• Ensure laboratory, wildlife/plant care, and field equipment are properly maintained and calibrated and coordinates repairs and maintenance of equipment and facilities with administrative assistant.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The ideal candidate is a recent graduate with hands-on or foundational laboratory experience in cell culture, including aseptic technique and maintaining primary cells. We are seeking someone highly motivated with a meticulous approach to record-keeping and the ability to follow complex protocols with precision. The ideal candidate will be eager to learn advanced experimental design and technologies including optimization of cell culture protocols, automated cell culture monitoring, metabolic analysis using the Agilent Seahorse, and machine learn analysis software's. Comfort working both independently and as part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team of conservationists is highly valued. Someone passionate about contributing to a project that builds foundational protocols for biobanking of critically endangered Hawaiian bird species is highly desirable.

JOB EXPERIENCE

• 1 years of experience and/or certification in conducting laboratory or field-based research required.
• Experience with science communication or interpretation of scientific concepts preferred.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's Degree biological sciences or a specialized field specific to the position is required.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Trained in methodology and equipment used in the assigned area of biological research, animal care, diagnostics, social science or science communication
• Proficient in data and record keeping.
• Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs.
• Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Able to work effectively with others in a diverse environment,
• Able to attend to the needs of assigned research collections and/or community members.

SOME OF THE PERKS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER

• Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Family Passes
• Complimentary Tickets
• Local and In-House Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program

IMPORTANT DETAILS

• Location: Escondido, CA
• Position Type: Hourly Part-Time Non-Exempt Temporary, 18.5 Months Position
• Hourly Rate: $28.48

Fraudulent Recruiting
Beware of fraudulent recruiting. Legitimate San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance contacts will use an @sdzwa.org email address. We do not request money, checks, equipment orders, or sensitive personal data during the recruitment process. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance only conducts interviews via phone, Zoom, Teams or in-person.

If you have been asked for any of the above, or believe you have been contacted by someone posing as a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance employee, please e-mail sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org. If you feel that you have been the victim of fraud, please contact your financial institution(s) immediately.

At San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, we celebrate our differences and foster a culture of belonging. Diversity strengthens our employees, enriches our guests' experiences, deepens our connection to our community, and supports the wildlife we serve.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, please email your request to sdzwacareers@sdzwa.org and provide the job title and location to which you are applying.

As a Federal Contractor, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is required to participate in the E-Verify Program to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. We are not offering sponsorship for this position at this time.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a drug free workplace.