Pollinator Ecology Field Technician

Colorado State University•Fort Collins, CO

4d•$25 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Join the Mola Lab at Colorado State University in supporting a collaborative project with the National Park Service Inventory and Assessment Program. Field technicians will help inventory bumble bees, butterflies, and flowering plants at Rocky Mountain National Park to inform park management and conservation efforts. Must be able to live on site in park housing during the summer. Housing included. Full Consideration Date February 27, 2026 Brief Work Unit Description Department of Forest and Rangeland Stewardship

Requirements

Ability to hike 4 miles per day on uneven terrain
Experience conducting field research through class or work
Experience with data entry through class or work
Interest in entomology and botany
Punctual and reliable for daily surveys throughout the summer
Strong attention to detail
Ability to visually detect small flying insects and remain focused for long periods
Must be available for full time work during field season
Valid drivers’ license

Nice To Haves

Experience handling and identifying insects (especially local bumble bee species)
Experience identifying plant species (especially Colorado flora)
Outdoors experience (hiking, camping, backpacking, fieldwork, etc.)
A personal vehicle is not required, but would be useful for traveling to nearby Estes Park for groceries, pharmacy, entertainment, etc.

Responsibilities

Conduct non-lethal surveys of bumble bees and butterflies following detailed protocols.
Use insect nets to capture and briefly chill bumble bees for voucher photographs, then safely release them
Record plant–pollinator interactions, including the plant species visited and behavioral observations (e.g. nectaring, resting, patrolling).
Survey milkweed for monarch eggs and larvae
Identify native and non-native plant species using plant guides and record phenological stage
Enter and manage field data
Travel to and from remote field sites (multiple hours of driving per day and up to 4 miles of hiking) with the field crew (field vehicle is available)

Benefits

Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service.
With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
Review our detailed benefits information here.
Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

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