Ontario Reptiles, Amphibians, Snake conservation

Job Title: Ratsnake Field Technician
Project: Reptile and Amphibian Initiative
Organization: Wildlife Preservation Canada
Location: Norfolk County, Ontario

• Anticipated Start Date: May 19-25, 2026
• Position Type: Full-time (35 hr. /wk.), 8 weeks fixed term contract, with possibility of renewal or extension subject to performance and funding
• Wage: $17.60 /hour plus 4% vacation pay
• Hours of Work: Flexible daily and weekly schedule to suit project needs and weather conditions. Some evening and weekend work may be required.
• Reports to: Two NRSI Biologists and Reptile and Amphibian Program Development Coordinator

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Wildlife Preservation Canada (WPC) is seeking a Ratsnake Field Technician to assist with activities related to the implementation of a Conservation Action Plan for the Carolinian population of Gray Ratsnake. There may also be opportunities to assist partners with other related projects. Working under the direction of the two NRSI Biologists and Reptile and Amphibian Program Development Coordinator, the Ratsnake Field Technician will contribute to field surveys and data management to improve our understanding of the species’ distribution and habitat use, and to inform the development of a Long-term Monitoring Plan for the Carolinian population. After an initial orientation and training session, the position will be mostly remotely supervised by the two NRSI Biologists and WPC’s Reptile and Amphibian Program Development Coordinator with regular meetings. This position provides a unique opportunity to gain experience surveying for a rare species, while developing new holistic and collaborative opportunities.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead targeted surveys for Gray Ratsnake
• Lead the capture, handling, and processing of species at risk snakes, including Gray Ratsnake Characterizing habitats confirmed as being used by Gray Ratsnake
• Office-based tasks including compiling and summarizing field survey data
• Effective and timely communication with program staff and partners
• Contribute to WPC’s communication efforts, including social media, blogs, etc.
• Contribute to the writing of reports as required
• Participate in other projects and duties as requested

ELIGIBILITY

This position will be funded through Canada Summer Jobs (link). To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Be between 15 and 30 years old at the beginning of the employment period Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person who has been officially given refugee protection in Canada; and
• Be legally allowed to work in Canada

Please indicate in your application if you meet these criteria.

REQUIRED EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Skilled at identifying Ontario snakes, an understanding of Gray Ratsnake biology and conservation issues
• Hands-on field research experience in biological conservation of snakes with minimal supervision, such as:
  • Safely hiking or doing physical labour for long days for multiple days in a row, in variable weather with biting insects and in challenging habitats.
  • Conducting biological surveys/inventories, adhering to data collection protocols, and recording detailed & legible field notes.
• Valid G2 or G-class Ontario driver’s license, and access to a vehicle for the duration of the contract is required
• Detail-oriented and able to accurately record and manage data
• Able to navigate in the field using a map and GPS unit
• Strong time management skills
• Strong work ethic (focus, professionalism, punctuality, and honesty)
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Experience conducting public outreach and education

ADVANTAGEOUS SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Undergraduate university degree/college diploma or graduate degree in a biologically related field, or equivalent level of knowledge/experience
• Hands-on field research experience in biological conservation of taxa other than snakes
• Standard or wilderness first aid certification
• Completion of relevant training courses (e.g. herpetofauna survey course, etc).
• Strong interpersonal skills, including facilitation, and fostering smooth relationships with co-workers, superiors, Indigenous peoples, governments, partner organizations, and volunteers

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, and INCLUSION:

Saving endangered species is strengthened by and requires contributions of people of diverse backgrounds, heritage, knowledge, experiences, and identities, though many of these voices have been excluded from conservation. WPC values the people we employ and that we work with and is committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in our workplace. We are committed to selecting and developing employees to create a diverse, inclusive, and equitable organization and therefore encourage applications from all qualified individuals.

TO APPLY

If you have a Google Account (more preferred), please fill out this Google Form (https://forms.gle/VyRN7NcfTxRqHd9N9) and upload your cover letter and resume as a single pdf or MS word file attachment.

If you do not have a Google Account and do not wish to create one (less preferred), please submit your cover letter and resume as a single PDF or MS word file attachment to: Hannah McCurdy-Adams, Reptile and Amphibian Program Development Coordinator, reptileamphibian@wildlifepreservation.ca, and use the email subject heading ‘Ratsnake Field Technician Application’. In the body of your email, please answer these questions:

1. What is your phone number?

2. Are you legally eligible to work in Canada?

3. Do you have a valid Ontario G2 or G driver’s license?

4. Do you have access to a vehicle for the duration of the contract?

5. What city would you live in for the duration of the contract?

6. How did you find out about this position?  (via GoodWork.ca)

The application deadline is May 18, 2026 at 11: 59 pm ET, but all applicants will be assessed as they are submitted, and the position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found. All applicants must be legally eligible to work in Canada. We thank you for your interest and for applying. Please note that only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.