Rare Insect Field Technician - Seasonal

Utah State University•Logan, UT

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Rare Insect Conservation Program (RICP) of Utah is seeking a part-time field technician to assist our crew with insect field surveys and data collection of native insect communities in Utah. RICP works closely with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) to gather data about at-risk insect taxa, associated habitat, and other ecological information necessary to develop beneficial conservation actions. The field technician will report to the Rare Insect Conservation Coordinator. This position is temporary and part-time, though it will involve several consecutive days of survey fieldwork in October/early November, resuming again in Spring 2027. This position may extend past June 30, 2027 based on available funding. We have several fieldwork outings planned for the end of the 2026 field season, resuming again in April 2027. Fieldwork trips are generally 3- to 6-day camping trips to remote areas in Utah to perform targeted surveys or insect species inventories. RICP crew is responsible for personal camping and hiking gear and food. Per diem will be provided cover meal costs. No driving or use of personal vehicle expected—travel and any lodging costs are covered by RICP.

Requirements

Individuals holding or currently pursuing a Bachelor's in Biology, Ecology, Entomology, or related field; work experience involving entomological field surveys will be preferred
Attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in data collection and analysis
Analytical and organizational skills
Interest in entomology, wildlife ecology and conservation
Effective (clear, concise written and verbal) communication skills
Teamwork and collaboration with agency colleagues and academic professionals
Outdoor skills, environmental awareness and attention to safety in remote environments
Insect survey techniques (e.g., species identification, non-lethal sampling, basic macrophotography, etc.)
Curiosity, affection, and respect for insects and other invertebrate wildlife
Exemplary field collection standards (consistency, focus, reliability)
Ability to endure long periods of physical activity in occasionally difficult field conditions
Motivated individual with a knack for creative problem solving

Responsibilities

Participate in the collection of on-site field data for focal insect species and their habitats, using GPS and mobile devices to gather georeferenced data.
Assist RICP crew in implementing appropriate methodologies to collect reliable data.
Assist with equipment and gear preparation (cleaning and organizing vials, nets, etc.) ahead of fieldwork trips.
Contribute to basecamp setup/breakdown and meal preparation/cleanup during camping trips.
Coordinate closely with Rare Insect Conservation Coordinator and Rare Insect Research Technician, and represent RICP when interfacing with survey volunteers, taxonomic experts, landowners and land managers, as needed.