Conservation Technician - eDNA (2yr Term)

Assiniboine Park Conservancy•Winnipeg, MB

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Assiniboine Park Conservancy (APC) is a not-for-profit organization in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, responsible for the operations, redevelopment, and financial viability of Assiniboine Park. The organization aims to deliver extraordinary experiences for visitors and build strong relationships with stakeholders. This opening is for a Conservation Technician who will report to the Conservation Programs Manager. The role involves implementing conservation research and actions to achieve Assiniboine Park Zoo’s conservation goals, maintaining high standards of scientific research. The technician will work individually and as part of a team, conducting research, communicating progress and results, and collaborating with volunteers and students. The primary focus will be on Environmental DNA (eDNA) programs, including lab and field-based activities for Arctic and aquatic mammals. Additionally, the position will support the Grassland Butterfly Conservation program, which involves rearing endangered skippers, translocations, field monitoring, data collection and analysis, and communicating project results to various stakeholders.

Requirements

BSc in biological science or a related field.
Minimum two years’ experience participating in wildlife research projects.
Proven experience in field research processes and procedures.
Experience with environmental DNA techniques and procedures, or other similar genetics and genomics experience (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR amplification, quality control and data management).
Knowledge of computer programs including Microsoft Office and R statistical software.
Demonstrated ability to collect and maintain data sets.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, volunteers, and visitors.
Must possess a Class 5 Manitoba Driver’s License or equivalent.
Physically capable of performing the duties of the position.
Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to build and maintain positive working relationships with diverse groups.
Ability to work under pressure and deal with confidential and sensitive matters.

Nice To Haves

An MSc.
Experience working in northern and/or grassland habitats and/or with insect rearing and conservation.
Ability to speak French and/or other languages.

Responsibilities

Implement conservation research and actions to achieve Assiniboine Park Zoo’s conservation goals while maintaining high standards of scientific research.
Work individually and within a team to conduct research, communicate progress and results, and to work with volunteers and students.
Primarily work on Environmental DNA (eDNA) programs involving lab and field-based activities for Arctic and aquatic mammals.
Support the Grassland Butterfly Conservation program, involving the rearing of endangered skippers, translocations, field monitoring, data collection and analysis, and communicating projects results to a variety of stakeholders.
Conduct research and data collection in the zoo and in the field.
Communicate research and conservation progress and results.
Implement conservation programs where directed.
Take on a larger role in eDNA programs, including occasionally taking on a leadership role in fieldwork, husbandry, and data collection.
Occasionally work with other departments and engage with Zoo visitors.
Adhere to all health and safety regulations, legislation, and policies.