Biological Science Technician

SJSU Research Foundation • Moss Landing, CA

2d • $30

About The Position

The Research Technician will support field-based research focused on waterbird nesting biology, habitat use, and movement ecology across California and the western United States. Research efforts span multiple regions, including California’s Central Valley, San Francisco Bay, the Klamath Basin (Oregon and California), and the Great Basin (Oregon, Utah, and Nevada). Data collected through this position will contribute to regional and multi-state studies examining avian biology, habitat relationships, and movement patterns of focal waterbird species. This role requires extensive fieldwork, adaptability to changing schedules, and the ability to work in challenging outdoor environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or related field.
• Experience with biological fieldwork, wildlife surveys, or ecological data collection.
• Ability to identify bird species in the field (particularly waterbirds).
• Experience or willingness to learn nest searching, bird capture, and bird handling techniques.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated reliability and ability to meet deadlines.
• Flexibility to work variable hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and occasional nighttime work.
• Ability to work long hours outdoors in wetland and upland habitats.
• Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain and work in variable weather conditions.
• A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the SJSURF. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or the continued employment of current SJSURF employees who apply for the position.

Responsibilities

• Conduct nest searching and systematic nest monitoring of multiple waterbird species.
• Perform vegetation sampling and habitat assessments.
• Capture and safely handle waterbirds; assist with attachment of transmitters for movement studies.
• Conduct standardized waterbird surveys and habitat surveys.
• Collect detailed biological and environmental data in the field.
• Enter, compile, organize, and perform quality control on field data using spreadsheets and tabular data formats.
• Maintain accurate and thorough field notes and data records.
• Follow established field protocols and safety procedures.
• Work collaboratively with research staff and partners across multiple study regions.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support research objectives.

Benefits

• Four company health insurance plans to choose from (employee contributions differ according to plan and level of coverage).
• Employer-paid dental and vision for both employee and eligible dependents.
• Life, AD&D, LTD with supplemental coverage opportunities.
• 14 paid federal & state holidays.
• Retirement Plan: 403 (b) employee contribution plan component and a 403 (b) employer contribution component, which vests immediately.
• Vacation-hour accruals and separate sick-hour accumulations.
• Employee discounts.
• Paid training and professional-development conferences.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level