Conservation Technician - eDNA
Deadline to Apply: May 4, 2026
2-year term from June 2026 to June 2028
Full-Time (37.5 hrs/week) 8:00AM to 4:00PM (Occasional overtime, evenings, weekends, and field work will be required).
Hourly Wage: $21.65 per hour
About Assiniboine Park Conservancy
Creating the future vision for one of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada’s most prized treasures, Assiniboine Park Conservancy (APC) located at 55 Pavilion Crescent in Winnipeg is the not-for-profit organization that oversees Assiniboine Park’s operations and ensures its ongoing redevelopment and financial viability. Our team is inspired to create and deliver extraordinary experiences for the people who visit and use the Park and Zoo including building friendly, supportive, effective relationships with stakeholders, community and the general public.
The Opportunity
We have an opening for a Conservation Technician who will report to the Conservation Programs Manager. The Conservation Technician is responsible for implementing conservation research and actions to achieve Assiniboine Park Zoo’s conservation goals while maintaining high standards of scientific research. The Conservation Technician will work individually and within a team to conduct research, communicate progress and results, and to work with volunteers and students. This position will primarily work on our Environmental DNA (eDNA) programs involving lab and field-based activities for Arctic and aquatic mammals, but will also support our Grassland Butterfly Conservation program, involving the rearing of endangered skippers, translocations, field monitoring, data collection and analysis, and communicating projects results to a variety of stakeholders.
Responsibilities include: research, data collection in the zoo and in the field, communication of research and conservation progress and results, implementation of conservation programs where directed, and related duties as required. The incumbent will take on a larger role in our eDNA programs, including occasionally taking on a leadership role in fieldwork, husbandry, and data collection. Occasional work with other departments and engagement with Zoo visitors will be required. The incumbent will adhere to all health and safety regulations, legislation, and policies.
Required Qualifications, Training, and Experience
- BSc in biological science or a related field, and a minimum two years’ experienceâ¯participating in wildlife research projects. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. An MSc would be seen as an additional asset.
- Proven experience in field research processes and procedures.
- Experience with environmental DNA techniques and procedures, or other similar genetics and genomics experience (e.g., DNA extraction, PCR amplification, quality control and data management).
- Knowledge of computer programs including Microsoft Office and R statistical software.
- Demonstrated ability to collect and maintain data sets.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, volunteers, and visitors.
- Must possess a Class 5 Manitoba Driver’s License or equivalent.
- Candidates must be physically capable of performing the duties of the position.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to build and maintain positive working relationships with diverse groups.
- The ability to work under pressure and deal with confidential and sensitive matters.
- Experience working in northern and/or grassland habitats and/or with insect rearing and conservation are strong assets.
- The ability to speak French and/or other languages are considered assets.
What We Have to Offer
- Comprehensive Health and Dental Plan
- Employee Assistance Plan
- An Inclusive work environment
- Zoo & Leaf membership
- Free parking
- Park discounts
- Beautiful Park setting
APC is committed to employment equity and encourages applications from women, Indigenous people, underrepresented community members, and persons with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.
