Scheduled Hours

37.5

Position Summary

The Adalsteinsson Ecology Lab at Washington University's Tyson Research Center is seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Seasonal Field Technician to join our team for a project focused on tick sampling in the upper Midwest region (Illinois and Wisconsin). This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in the field of disease ecology.

As a Seasonal Field Technician, you will play a crucial role in a large multi-PI, multi-region tick phenology study, with a focus in the upper Midwest. You will work closely with a small team of researchers to collect ticks from multiple field sites, aiding our understanding of tick phenology, abundance, and Lyme disease transmission patterns. This position involves fieldwork, lab work, and data management, requiring attention to detail and effective teamwork. The position is full-time, temporary from beginning of March – end of May 2026. Exact start and end dates within this timeframe are flexible. The position is considered a remote role, and the employee will be based in Northern Illinois.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

The position is full-time, temporary role from March 2026 through May 2026.

• Conduct tick and habitat sampling activities in the upper Midwest region following established, standardized protocols.

• Drive to field sampling sites.

• Collect, identify, properly store, and ship tick specimens for analysis.

• Record accurate and detailed data, including collection locations, environmental conditions, and relevant observations.

• Assist in data entry, management, and analysis using appropriate software.

• Maintain and organize field equipment, ensuring their proper functioning and inventory levels.

• Collaborate effectively with the research team and project leaders to meet project goals.

• Assist with project logistics and driving to field sites.

• Possible travel to Tyson Research Center in Eureka, Missouri as needed.

• Adhere to safety protocols and guidelines to ensure personal and team safety during fieldwork.

• Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:
Job Location/Working Conditions

• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a small team.

• Comfortable working in outdoor environments and under various weather conditions.

• Flexibility to work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays as needed (though this will be rare).

• This position is remote, based in northern IL, and it involves regular travel around northern IL and southern WI. ​

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent high school certification or combination of education and/or experience.

Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

Work Experience:

No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A Class E (MO) or Class D (IL) license and a good driving record are required for this position.

More About This Job

The position is full-time, temporary role from March 2026 through May 2026. Exact start and end dates within this timeframe are flexible. The position is considered a remote role, and the employee will be based in Northern Illinois.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree

Certifications/Professional Licenses:

No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills:

Biology, Communication, Data Compilation, Detail-Oriented, Ecology, Entomology, Environmental Science, Field Research, Interpersonal Communication, Sampling Techniques, Species Identification, Taxonomy, Teamwork, Vehicle Driving, Working Independently

Grade

R02-H

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected] or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Washington University is dedicated to building a community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.