Conservation Outreach Biologist

Zoo New England is a regional leader in native rare species conservation. Our Field Conservation Department is integral to fulfilling the zoo’s mission of helping protect and sustain the natural world and inspiring people to join us in that effort. We lead by example, conducting as well as supporting hands-on efforts to restore critical populations of threatened animals and plants in New England and abroad. Together with many partners, we use our field conservation programs and expertise as a means of empowering people to be active stewards of the biodiversity in their communities. For more information about Zoo New England’s Field Conservation Department, please visit www.zoonewengland.org/fieldconservation  

Essential Job Functions 

The Conservation Outreach Biologist advances the Field Conservation Department's mission through direct conservation work (field surveys, habitat restoration, etc) and through outreach that inspires landowners, stakeholders, and the public to take conservation action. The biologist will also coordinate with regional partners to ensure conservation efforts are strategically aligned across the region. This role requires maintaining detailed project records, preparing reports for partners and funders, and working flexible hours including occasional evenings and weekends to accommodate field work and outreach events. 

Duties & Responsibilities 

• In collaboration with FCD staff, The Orianne Society and other project partners, develop landowner outreach materials and create land management plans that align with the Working Lands for Wildlife Northeast Turtles program. 

• Conduct outreach through public programs, mailings, phone calls, and in-person site visits. 

• Communicate with partners and landowners to ensure project deliverables 

• Assist in the planning and implementation of wildlife conservation management projects 

• Conduct standardized biological surveys of plants and animals, particularly freshwater turtles. 

• Assist in the analysis of data and in the preparation of annual reports. 

Working Conditions 

• Exposure and close contact with a variety of animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and insects, including direct handling of large snapping turtles and other potentially injurious wildlife such as ticks, mosquitos, and other biting arthropods 

• Frequent field work in difficult natural conditions and uneven terrain with exposure to varying and challenging weather conditions (e.g. heat, rain, snow, ice), and to dust and allergens 

• This position is based in our Acton, Massachusetts field office and requires frequent travel to field sites across eastern Massachusetts and southern Maine. Travel is primarily day trips, with occasional overnight stays. Mileage and lodging reimbursement is provided. 

Minimum Job Requirements 

• Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, wildlife management, natural resources, environmental science, or a related field 

• Valid driver's license and ability to travel regularly within the region for site visits and fieldwork 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to engage diverse audiences 

• Physical ability to conduct field surveys in various weather conditions and terrain 

• Proficiency with standard computer applications, particularly Microsoft Excel 

• Must be willing to work nights and some weekends during the month of June 

Preferred Job Requirements 

• Experience conducting biological surveys, particularly with freshwater turtles 

• Demonstrated experience in conservation outreach, environmental education, or landowner engagement 

• Experience with habitat restoration or land management projects 

• Familiarity with the Working Lands for Wildlife program or similar federal conservation programs 

• Experience developing outreach materials or land management plans 

• Knowledge of regional wildlife, habitats, and conservation issues in the Northeast 

• Experience with GPS, GIS, or other mapping software and data collection tools 

Position starts on February 2, 2026. 

Salary : $21