Job Title: Temporary Field/Lab Research Assistant

Department: Organismal Biology & Ecology

Campus Location: Main Campus

FLSA Status: Nonexempt/ Hourly

Position Type/ Work Schedule

• 400 Hours per year
• 5 weeks Months per year
• 40 Hours per week (Estimated)

About Us

Colorado College is a nationally recognized, residential liberal arts college with 2,100 students from around the world. Employees set the stage for student success by bringing their diverse experience and knowledge to the table. The college actively promotes a dynamic and inclusive environment in which students and employees of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives can learn and work.

Job Summary

Works closely with assigned faculty on research projects either in the field, in the lab, or both. Work sites are off-campus on the Pike National Forest. Summer research projects are used by students in the process of conducting inquiry-based field studies to allow them an opportunity to take ownership in collecting data that is vital to the development of conservation plans, and to help determine if they wish to pursue field biology in the future. Students working side-by-side with faculty members fosters an opportunity for close interaction between professor and student. Students are strongly encouraged to use the summer research as an opportunity to pursue independent studies and senior theses.

Responsibilities

• Effectively use mist nets to capture and extract songbirds and raptors
• Safely and effectively handle, band, and take blood samples from birds
• Use GPS and map/compass to navigate safely in forested terrain during day and night work hours
• Assist in data collection as requested.
• Perform data entry to include preliminary analysis of data as requested.
• Facilitate and participate in discussions regarding plant and animal ecology.
• Participate in field study design and methodologies.
• Support and contribute to the goal of achieving greater diversity at Colorado College and work effectively with the many constituencies in a college environment.
• Promote a culture of safety and environmental protection by working in a safe manner; immediately reporting unsafe situations and accidents; following college procedures; and participating in appropriate safety training.
• Act in a socially responsible manner and model environmental sustainability by exercising financial prudence, using college resources wisely, and supporting ecological initiatives and innovation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma and completed coursework in the field of Ecology.

Preferred Qualifications

Applicants are welcome to apply even if you do not meet the preferred qualifications. We value diverse perspectives and encourage individuals with a genuine interest in the role to submit their applications. 

Other Position Details:

• Does not supervise others
• Position requires driving CC vehicles (drivers must be eligible for coverage under CC's insurance plan)

Application Instructions

• Application Deadline - last day to submit an application: June 3, 2026
• This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.  

In alignment with our commitment to reduce potential bias in hiring, applicants may redact any information that discloses their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance/graduation from educational institutions on resumes, certifications, transcripts, or other application materials. There will be no penalties for the omission of such information.

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range:

• $16.00 per hour

What We Offer:

As part of the total compensation for Staff and Faculty roles, we offer a competitive benefits package including:

• Paid sick time- accrual of 0.0333 hours of sick time for each hour worked
• Wellness benefits include free access to the sports center, swimming pool, arts and crafts, outdoor programs, and financial consultants

Benefits and Wellness Information:

Please refer to our Benefits Page

Explore the Department: Learn more about the Organismal Biology & Ecology department here https://www.coloradocollege.edu/academics/dept/obe/

Accommodation Statement:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Colorado College’s policies, if you have a disability and would like to request accommodations to support your application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at HR@coloradocollege.edu as early as possible. Positions may close on the listed deadline or, if posted as continuous, may close without prior notice.

E-Verify Information:

This organization participates in E-Verify. For more information, visit www.e-verify.gov

Leave Information:

Please refer to https://www.coloradocollege.edu/basics/welcome/leadership/policies/vacation-leave-and-accrual.html