If you like bugs, camping, and digging in the dirt, then you
might be my perfect summer field technician. My
research compares canopy ants to ants on the forest floor
to see if significant differences exist between these
communities. Why is this cool? Because no one has ever
surveyed ants from the treetops of North Carolina, so we
don’t even know what’s up there!
Job Duties Include:
● Collecting ants and leaf litter samples from state
parks around North Carolina
● Field extraction of samples
● Sorting and processing samples
● Mounting and identifying ants
● Recording detailed and accurate field notes
● Data entry
Qualifications:
● No previous field work experience required
● Current NCSU undergraduate working toward a degree in biology, zoology,
environmental science, or related field with coursework in biology and/or ecology
● Valid driver’s license
● Ability to perform physical work in hot, humid weather conditions
● Good physical condition – able to hike over uneven terrain carrying 20lbs.
of gear; able to work consecutive, long, physically demanding days
● Attention to detail
● Flexible schedule
This paid position will run mid-May through mid-August. Field work will be conducted during
several 1-2 week-long trips to North Carolina state parks during this time. Camping gear and
food will be provided, but comforts will vary depending on site location.
The successful applicant will have a curiosity for science, a positive attitude, and be a hard
worker with a strong motivation to get involved in scientific research.
Send a CV/resume, contact information for 2 references, and 1-2 paragraphs explaining why
you’re interested in the position and why you’d make a great field technician to Michelle
Kirchner at mlkirchn@ncsu.edu with the subject line “Summer field technician”. Applications will
be reviewed beginning February 10th, 2020, and the job will remain open until filled, no later than April 1st, 2020.