Conservation Field Technician, Hellbenders

Overview We are seeking a seasonal field technician for the second year of a three-year project focused on reassessing the status of the Eastern Hellbender in Ohio. Successful applicants will conduct mark-recapture surveys and install and maintain Hellbender Huts (artificial dens) at selected sites in multiple streams throughout easter Ohio. This physically demanding work that requires long hours working in streams with coworkers and volunteers and interacting with landowners. This project is part of a long-term conservation program in Ohio that has included augmenting populations with over 2,000 head-started (zoo-reared) Hellbenders, the installation of Hellbender huts, and working with partners to conserve and recover habitats. The data collected during these surveys will be used to assess populations, habitats and recovery activities.

Application Deadline: April 8, 2026Starting Date: 6/1/2026Ending Date: 9/30/2026Hours per week: 40Salary: $15 per hour, plus housingEducation Required: Some undergraduateExperience Required: NoneLocation: Eastern Ohio (Remote)

Responsibilities:

Hellbender Surveys Searches for and captures Hellbenders. Safely processes animals, including recording mass, length, sex, and abnormalities. Permanently marks animals using PITs. Collects samples for genetic analyses and disease screening. Hellbender Huts

• Installs concrete huts (100 lbs.) into selected locations.
• Maintains huts, clearing them of debris and sediment.

Checks installed huts and collect data on inhabitants. Habitat Assessments

• Measures substrate quality through zig-zag pebble counts.

Collects data on water quality. Other Duties

• Maintains and repairs equipment and gear.

Cleans and disinfects to ensure biosecurity.

• Ensures data accuracy and loss prevention.

Safely operates vehicles.

Qualifications:

Educational & Experience Requirements At least 18 years old. High school diploma or equivalent required. At least two years completed towards a degree in biology, natural resources, wildlife ecology, or equivalent experience conducting field surveys, research, or natural resource management.

Skills & Abilities:

Ability to swim and safely work in aquatic habitats. Ability to plan and organize work in an efficient and cost‐effective manner and without direct supervision. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with all team members.

Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings and weekends. Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures, including safety protocols. Licenses & Certifications Valid driver’s license with a good driving record required. Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator’s license and a good driving record required.

Ability to adhere to the drug‐free workplace policy, including pre‐employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and follow‐up treatment. Ability to successfully complete a criminal history background check annually. Personal Characteristics & Workplace Behavior Positive attitude with a commitment to excellent service and upholding guest service standards.