Research Coordinator II - Seasonal - San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is an international, nonprofit conservation organization with two front doors: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. We integrate wildlife health and care, science, and education to develop sustainable conservation solutions.
Deadline:
17 July 2026
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5 days
Escondido, California
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United States
Senior Talent Business Partner at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, connecting passionate professionals with meaningful careers in conservation, wildlife health, and research.
The Research Coordinator II conducts assigned research activities and oversees research operations in a specialized area of conservation science; and may provide lead guidance to assigned staff. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Conservation Science Department.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Carry out research collections of animals, plants, or biological samples and/or initiatives with human communities.
Coordinate program related activities.
Develop, update, and implement associated research plans, engagement tools, training procedures, and data analysis.
Oversee assigned laboratory, field, diagnostic, or research collection operations, equipment, supplies, and facilities.
Document, summarize, and analyze data.
Interpret research findings and revises procedures necessary to achieve desired results.
Prepare progress reports and other documentation as required for management and granting, permitting or other oversight entities.
Oversee assigned area(s) and supervises assigned staff.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
The Research Coordinator II supports conservation research at the Ellen Browning Scripps Spatial Ecology Lab (Beckman Center, Escondido) through advanced drone-based data acquisition and geospatial analysis. The role requires expertise in operating UAV platforms and sensors (LiDAR, multispectral, thermal-IR, RGB), mission planning, photogrammetry, and data processing using Drone2Map, Pix4D Pro, DJI Terra, ArcGIS Pro, ENVI, as well as experience with satellite imagery acquisition and analysis. Ideal candidate will have an FAA Part 107 certification, familiarity with Southern California ecosystems, and the ability to perform fieldwork, including off-road driving.
JOB EXPERIENCE
4 years post-graduate experience in laboratory, diagnostic, wildlife care, and/or field research required.
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree in related field required.
Master's Degree in biology, zoology, botany, or a related field or equivalent specialized training preferred.
SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Able to operate moderately complex computer software programs.
Able to work effectively with others in a diverse environment.
SOME OF THE REWARDS YOU WILL ENJOY AS A TEAM MEMBER
Free admission to the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Family Passes
Complimentary Tickets
Free Parking at the San Diego Zoo & San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Local and In-House Discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellness Program
IMPORTANT DETAILS
Location: Escondido, CA
Position Type: Salaried Full-Time Exempt 6 Month Temporary Position
Salary Range: $77,225 to $78,760
HOW TO APPLY
Apply directly through our Careers page using the following link:
