Temporary Field Research Assistant

Campus Location: Main Campus | FLSA Status: Nonexempt/Hourly | Position Type/Work Schedule: Approximately 80 hours over 1 month (Block 1: August 24 - September 16, 2026). Weeks 1, 3, and 4 will be approximately 10-30 hours; Week 2 will be approximately 40 hours per week.

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. 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

• 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.
• Position requires driving CC vehicles (drivers must be eligible for coverage under CC's insurance plan).

Requirements

• High school diploma.
• Completed undergraduate level coursework in Ecology or related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Obtained a grade of "B+" or higher in completed undergraduate level Ecology or related coursework.
• Highly reliable and detail-oriented, with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective working relationships with students and faculty.
• Exercises sound judgment in working independently and seeking assistance when appropriate.

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.

Pay

Anticipated hiring salary range: $16.00 per hour.

Benefits

• 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.

For more details, refer to the Benefits and Wellness Information page.