American Burying Beetle Technician (2 Openings)
Location: El Dorado Springs, MO and Taberville, MO
Classification: Non-Exempt/Hourly
Position Type: Part-Time/Temporary (May 18, 2026 – September 30, 2026)
Position Summary: The Saint Louis Zoo is hiring two (2) technicians to work in tandem with Saint Louis Zoo staff for surveys of the American Burying Beetle at sites near El Dorado Springs and Taberville, MO.
Responsibilities: The technicians will assist each other with pitfall trap installations, identifying all captured invertebrates, recording morphometric measurements in addition to safely tagging and notching of beetles, and assisting Zoo staff with possible reintroductions. This position offers an opportunity to work with the American Burying Beetle as part of a long-term recovery effort for this federally threatened species. Lodging will be provided. One field vehicle will be provided on site for surveys.
Qualifications: Attained a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Ecology, or related field experience preferred. Must be willing to accept direction and follow proper safety guidelines and protocols for handling this threatened species. Experience with pitfall trapping arrays and checking of traps is preferred but not necessary. Technicians must be detail-oriented, self-motivated, and enthusiastic, possess a strong work ethic, and must work effectively with minimal supervision when required. Technicians must have a valid driver’s license and be willing to obtain a Class E license if Missouri is the issuing state. Must be comfortable driving off-road in four-wheel drive.
All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test. As this is a safety-sensitive role, a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances, including marijuana.
Physical Demands: Technicians must be able to walk several miles a day. Technician will be expected to endure harsh field conditions (heat, humidity, ticks, chiggers, etc.).
Work Schedule: This position will work 40 hours per week. The position runs from May 18, 2026 – September 30, 2026.
About the Saint Louis Zoo: The world-renowned Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to saving species and bringing people and wildlife together. The Saint Louis Zoo cares for approximately 12,000 animals, many of which are endangered, and is dedicated to local and global conservation to save wildlife. Learn more at: https://stlzoo.org/
The Zoo is committed to the Three Keys (Animals Always, People Matter, and Operational Excellence) and Core Values (Community, Creativity, Openness, Integrity, and Life-Work Balance. Learn more at: https://stlzoo.org/
About St. Louis, Mo: From Explore St. Louis: “Urban explorer, outdoor adventurer, aficionado of family fun – no matter your travel persona, you’ll find plenty to do in St. Louis. The city is brimming with free, world-class attractions and boasts an arts-and-culture scene that’s second to none. Plus, fans of fresh air will be surprised and delighted by our flourishing public parks, miles of trails and exhilarating waterways. Sprinkle in a bit of our secret sauce – the warmth and hospitality of the residents – and you’ll discover that St. Louis dishes up undeniably epic travel experiences. Don’t take our word for it, though. Come and see for yourself.” Learn more at https://explorestlouis.com/
