General Purpose

Conservation Interns will assist with rewilding Federal- and California-endangered Blunt-nosed Leopard Lizards (Gambelia sila) to relict San Joaquin Desert habitat in the Panoche Hills in central California. In the process, interns will assist with phenotype measurement, fieldwork, and data entry during the animals’ active season. Interns will also read and discuss relevant scientific literature and participate in regular meetings. This part time seasonal position is for 15 weeks (approximately April 15 to August 1, 2025) averaging 29h/wk.

We are pleased to offer this seasonal part time position an Employee Assistance Program, 401K, Paid CA Sick Time earned on an accrued basis. The pay range for this position is $17.50 - $18.00 per hour. Offers will be based on the successful candidate’s experience.

Essential Accountabilities

• Perform or assist with phenotype assays. Phenotypes to be measured include morphology [e.g., length, mass], thermoregulation via thermal gradient assay, metabolic rate and evaporative water loss via Sable Systems Field Metabolic System, fecal corticosterone concentration via commercial EIA, and behavior [aggression and boldness].
• Perform regular radiotelemetry to locate animals.
• Assist with field ultrasound to assess reproductive output of females.
• Perform regular field surveys.
• Assist with construction/maintenance of Automated Radio Telemetry System at Panoche Plateau.
• Assist with data collection and analysis to assess re-wilding success and natural selection on the landscape.
• Maintain a field journal and take part in weekly field team meetings, including discussions of relevant scientific literature.
• Participate in field symposium at end of the season.
• Ability to safely operate a vehicle for business purposes including but not limited to going to and from the zoo’s facilities and offsite.
• Perform other tasks and projects as requested.

MISSION

WE INSPIRE PEOPLE TO CARE FOR ANIMALS, CREATE CONNECTIONS, BUILD COMMUNITY, AND SAVE WILDLIFE.

VISION

A JUST FUTURE THAT BEGINS WITH US AND MAKES POSSIBLE A WORLD WHERE PEOPLE AND WILDLIFE THRIVE TOGETHER.

ORGANIZATIONAL PILLARS

WILDLIFE SCIENCE – Creating environments for animals to thrive.

• Outstanding animal care.
• Research-driven animal wellness.
• Meaningful connections.
• Transformative exhibits.
• Effective global and regional conservation.

COMPANY CULTURE– Promoting personal and professional staff fulfillment.

• Collective success.
• Career growth and development.
• Commitment to staff well-being and happiness.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS – Fostering a sense of belonging and connection to our mission.

• Premier cultural destination
• A sense of belonging for all.
• Equitable access.
• Environmental and social justice.
• Trusted leader in conservation and sustainability.
• Rooted in the Central Valley.

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS – Striving for sustainability in our business and operations.

• Sustainable business model.
• Continued community support (Measure Z).
• Compelling brand.
• Modeling green practices.

Education and Job Qualifications

• High school diploma required.
• Currently enrolled (or graduated from within the last 2 years) in a degree program in Wildlife Science, Conservation Biology, or related field required.
• A valid California driver's license, valid vehicle insurance, enrolled in the CA Employer Pull Notice program and successful completion of the FCZ Drivers Training Program required.
• Strong verbal and written English communications skills required. Bilingual (Spanish or Hmong) communication skills a plus
• Ability to work seasonally scheduled hours as necessary, which could include weekends, evenings, and holidays during the core field season (approx. April –August).
• Ability to complete field work in a harsh, desert environment (supplies for field safety will be provided).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

These are physical and mental requirements of the position as it is typically performed. Inability to meet one or more of these physical or mental requirements will not automatically disqualify a candidate or employee from the position. Upon request for a reasonable accommodation, the Zoo may be able to adjust or excuse one or more of these requirements, depending on the requirement, the essential functions to which it relates, and the proposed accommodation.

• This position requires the employee to stand and walk continuously for extended periods during the shift. The employee will also be regularly required to bend, stoop, or crouch when collecting or working with research animals.
• The employee is regularly required to lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds, and occasionally team-lift to 75 pounds.
• Visual acuity to read printed instructions and safety information and to assess animal behavior. Color perception is also required.
• Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication (in person and via telephone) at normal speaking levels with or without correction.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The position functions both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to heat, cold, and inclement weather.
• The employee is regularly exposed to a variety of animals with risk of animal bites (including venomous), zoonotic disease, and other animal-related injury.
• Travel to field sites required. Sites are typically located within a 1–3-hour drive.
• This position is for 15 weeks (approximately April 15 to August 1, 2025) averaging 29 hours per week. However, some weeks will have more hours and some weeks may have fewer hours.