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Job Description
Temporary Summer Field Technician
Requisition Number:
71991
Location:
Boulder, Colorado
City
Boulder
State
Colorado
Employment Type:
Research Faculty
Schedule:
Part-Time
Posting Close Date:
20-May-2026
Date Posted:
20-May-2026
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The Mountain Ecology and Biogeography Lab at the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research and the University of Colorado is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented and independent Temporary Researcher to participate in field and laboratory activities related to one project. The initial assignment will be for eight weeks with the possibility of extension pending funding and evaluation. The preferred start date is May 25th, 2026.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
As the University's oldest institute, INSTAAR has a long history of responding to pressing environmental issues including climate change. Our traditional focus has been on alpine, Arctic, and Antarctic regions, where effects of global change are especially pronounced. In recent decades, our research has broadened to include environmental challenges that span local, regional, and global scales. INSTAAR’s research activities integrate field studies, state-of-the-art laboratory experiments, sample analysis, and numerical and laboratory modeling. Our field sites are located across all seven continents and the world's oceans.
Our expertise across disciplines helps us generate influential science that can inform public and policy decisions and move us toward a more sustainable society. INSTAAR's national and international research leadership is augmented by exceptional strength in graduate education and bringing undergraduates into the research process.
Serve as a field and lab technician for the Mountain Ecology and Biogeography Lab (Mt. Bio Lab), established by Dr. Sisimac Duchicela (PI). Primary responsibilities will include Fieldwork: Our main field season occurs during the summer from early June to mid-September (mostly at the MRS (Mountain Research Station)-Niwot Ridge LTER). This summer, we have an ongoing germination experiment examining how seed source and early life environment affects plant reproductive success. We will be collecting seeds in Colorado and grow them on campus.
The hourly rate for this temporary, part-time position is $19.
Temporary positions at the University of Colorado are not benefits-eligible, however, all positions are eligible for paid sick leave.
Be creative. Be impactful. Be Boulder.
Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, ecology, biology, chemistry, geography, hydrology, or related fields, 2-3 years specialized experience in related field; valid driver’s license; willingness to learning and performing vegetation surveys or basic plant identification and conducting fieldwork in all-weather conditions. A minimum of 2 days per week in the summer will be expected.
Must be able to work effectively with minimal daily supervision. -Excellent communication skills, both verbally and written, including listening and responding to questions effectively. -Ability and willingness to travel to field sites in Colorado. -Proficiency with basic computer software including the Microsoft Office suite, as well as, online collaboration tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, Dropbox, or Google Drive.-Must have the ability to pay close attention to details and keep clear and accurate records. -Willingness to learn new methods or skills related to new instrumentation or field sampling to support project goals.
Ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field but research experience can substitute for degree. Willingness to work in the field and work independently.
To apply, please submit the following materials:
- Resume/CV
- Cover Letter
During the application process, you will need to enter contact information for one reference who can provide a letter of recommendation, as the search progresses.
For consideration, please apply by May 20, 2026.
Note: Applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.
Posting Contact Information
Posting Contact Name: Boulder Campus Human Resources
Posting Contact Email: [email protected]