Research Associate II, Community Engagement - Part Time Seasonal - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance•Escondido, CA

About The Position

The Research Associate II, Community Engagement assists with and delivers assigned projects and programs in specialized biological and/or social science areas, focused on driving conservation action through science education and community collaborations. The role is part of the Community Engagement team within the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health department and reports to a supervisor-level employee or higher. This part-time seasonal position supports the Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP), a graduate program affiliated with Miami University. The Research Associate updates course materials and co-facilitates one to two AIP graduate courses per academic term alongside an SDZWA co-facilitator and a Miami University instructor. Facilitation takes place online and during in-person learning days at SDZWA or nearby field locations, with virtual options as needed. The role sometimes works remotely and maintains flexibility for non-traditional hours, including mornings, evenings, and weekends, based on student availability and academic deadlines. The position is temporary for approximately four months, from January 15, 2027, through approximately mid-May 2027, and is scheduled for 16–20 hours per week. It is located in Escondido, California, and pays $31.32 per hour. The position is hourly, part-time, and non-exempt.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (B.S. or B.A.) in biological, environmental, conservation, education, social science, or a related field.
1–2 years of experience with science/environmental education programming and/or community-based conservation.
1–2 years of experience teaching, facilitating, and/or training appropriate to program audiences.
Moderate understanding of inquiry-based and participatory learning theory and practice.
Familiarity and comfort with in-person and virtual learning and training formats.
1–2 years of experience conducting literature reviews, designing scientific and inquiry-based studies, and gathering and compiling data.
1–2 years of experience building technical skills in relevant applied work settings, such as laboratory or field settings.
Valid California driver’s license upon hire.
Proficiency in Google Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, and Canvas.
Ability to work collaboratively within and across departments, independently, and as part of a team.
Knowledge of curriculum development and/or community-based conservation techniques and approaches.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Awareness of one’s own skills and limits and ability to seek guidance when appropriate.
Ability to sometimes work remotely and maintain flexibility for mornings, evenings, and weekends based on student availability and academic deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience with formal and informal learning, inquiry-based study design, regional wildlife and ecosystems, applied conservation field methods, and science communication and interpretation.
Experience applying inquiry-based teaching methods, preferably with graduate-level audiences.
Graduate studies and/or advanced certification or credentialing.

Responsibilities

Deliver program content to target audiences, including in laboratory and field settings.
Assist with laboratory, field, and/or classroom maintenance, upkeep, and supply stocking.
Take ownership of a project area, including coordinating logistics, communication, and resource maintenance.
Maintain organized, up-to-date records and digitally curated resources.
Assist with program development and assigned tasks to keep content current with scientific and technological developments.
Assist with grant preparation and/or reporting by gathering and compiling data.
Complete professional development opportunities and/or trainings as assigned by the supervisor.
Update Advanced Inquiry Program course materials.
Co-facilitate one to two AIP graduate courses per academic term with an SDZWA co-facilitator and a Miami University instructor.
Facilitate through the online course platform and during in-person or virtual learning days.