Seasonal Turtle Biologist

Overview

The Mid-Atlantic Center for Herpetology and Conservation (MACHAC) is seeking an entry level biologist to assist with turtle surveys. This position is for a Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) surveyor in the upper New York region (Syracuse/Oswego Area). MACHAC is a non-profit organization dedicated to the study, conservation, and advocacy of amphibians and reptiles ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).).

• Assist with field season coordination and implementation of turtle surveys (trapping and visual encounter surveys).
• Follow a standardized sampling protocol to collect data.
• Process turtles, enter and manage data, and manage GIS data.
• Draft/edit written documents (e.g., summary reports).
• Be comfortable working in a variety of weather conditions and difficult field environments (aquatic environments, high heat, rain, insects, noxious plants, etc.).

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife sciences, conservation biology, or related field.
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and personal vehicle (with proof of insurance).
• Past experience with herpetofauna field surveys.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under strenuous field conditions and to walk carrying heavy field equipment over varied terrain.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively; ability to interpret topographic maps and aerial photographs.

• Master’s degree in biology, wildlife sciences, conservation biology, or related field.
• Documented field experience setting turtle traps and processing turtle captures.
• Knowledge of rare flora and fauna of the Northeast U.S., particularly the upper New York region.
• Experience with ArcGIS and GPS technology.
• Candidates with substantial and documented experience trapping turtles, but without an advanced degree in the preferred fields, will still be considered highly qualified.

Office work can be conducted from anywhere. Fieldwork will be in the Syracuse/Oswego NY area, and housing will be provided if needed.

This is an 8-week position. The desired start date is 11 May 2026. Working long days, long weeks, and weekends is required. The salary will be $17–$19/hour, depending on the candidate’s qualifications.

Interested individuals should submit a cover letter and resume via the application form.

Deadline is 11:59 PM on 10 February 2026.

If you have questions about the position, contact:
Lori Erb at lerb