Grasslands Field Technician

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations. DZCA honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe:
Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of:
Welcoming, United, Curious, Courageous and Transformative in all that we do.

This early-career conservationist plays a key role in supporting field conservation projects across Colorado9s grasslands. The majority of their time will be spent conducting field research for DZCA9s grassland conservation and restoration initiatives, primarily on Denver Mountain Park property within metro Denver. Beyond fieldwork, the Technician will help review and process data, guide volunteers in restoration actions, help share the story of DZCA9s conservation efforts, and gain hands-on experience.

This role offers opportunities to build new skills, engage with diverse thought leaders and institutions, and establish a foundation for a career in conservation, ecology, natural resources, or a related field.

This is a seasonal position with a variable schedule: approximately 20 hours per week in March and April, 40 hours per week from May through October, and 10-20 hours per week in Nov and Dec. Based in Denver, this role requires frequent travel to grassland field sites 30-60 minutes from DZCA, with occasional overnight trips that may require camping. Travel for fieldwork will happen with a DZCA vehicle.

The office-based work will be a mix of remote and in-person on campus, with expectations set by the supervisor.

Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you9re excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!

• Implement grassland restoration by building Zeedyk rock structures, identifying and collecting grassland plant species, taking soil cores, surveying dung beetles, mapping soil erosion and invasive species with GPS and GIS, reseeding native grasses, and helping maintain a native plant garden.
• Implement research and volunteer engagement activities in support of Colorado wildlife conservation and ecosystem restoration projects.
• Collect detailed and accurate ecological data on Colorado grasslands in hot, exposed, and physically demanding conditions.
• Lead groups of volunteers and students in the field while ensuring the safety and comfort of all participants.
• Assist with inventorying and preparing field equipment and planning fieldwork.
• Professionally represent DZCA to diverse conservation partners including universities, land management agencies, tribal communities, K-12 schools, non-profits, and private land owners.

• Assist with data organization and quality control, including classifying camera trap photos.
• Help to share the story of DZCA9s local field conservation. This includes updating the team, participating in outreach events, creating content, and giving presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Represent partnerships and projects to volunteers, colleagues, and the broader community professionally and positively.
• Other assistance, as designated by the Grasslands Restoration Coordinator to support the overall goals of the department and organization. DZCA retains the right to add or change duties and/or responsibilities at any time.
• Operate within the program budget, and report program revenue and expenditures according to zoo policies. Act as a good steward of DZCA9s resources.
• The nature of this position requires safeguarding against the release of confidential and proprietary information of Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance.
• This position will interact with staff members at all levels across the organization, in addition to members of external organizations, media, volunteers, and the public.

• Completion of a high school degree or equivalent required, coursework in a biological science or conservation-related discipline preferred, or any equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Experience with plant identification in Colorado and sustained physical exertion in hot or cold weather required.

• A highly organized self-starter with excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize work and tasks. Requires adaptability to produce and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, changing environment and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Interest in pursuing a career in conservation, land stewardship, or a related field and passion for DZCA9s mission to save wildlife and…