Volunteer Entomology Postdoctoral Jobs (NOW HIRING)

 Entomology Technician-FT TemporaryThe Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) include the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park and the La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park. They operate under the collective vision to inspire wonder, discovery, and responsibility for our natural and cultural worlds. The museums hold one of the world’s most extensive and valuable collections of natural and cultural history—more than 35 million objects—used for groundbreaking scientific and historical research, and community engagement. From NHM’s opening in 1913 as the very first museum in Los Angeles, the organization has entered an exciting new era of transformation with building projects and campaigns, exhibitions, community outreach and impactful audience engagement.

NHMLAC’s values—adventurous, inclusive, authentic, and intentional—guide our work and visitor experience, committing us to foster a welcoming, safe and respectful workplace environment where innovation and collaboration thrive and every team member can contribute their unique perspectives to advance our mission. NHMLAC seeks candidates who are aligned with our values and priorities, and are passionate about connecting science with the vibrant and diverse communities we serve throughout Los Angeles.

The NHMLAC is seeking an Entomology Technician for our Research & Collections department.  The Entomology Technician will support the creation of a DNA barcode reference library for spiders in California, will provide help on sorting samples and identification of spiders, databasing, digitization of specimens and plating of specimens for sequencing and assist with DNA extraction. Occasionally will contribute to the acquisition of fresh material through field work across multiple locations in California. This position will function as part of a team that includes volunteers, postdoc, and museum curatorial staff. The position is full-time temporary for one year.

Responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to: 

1. Specimen preparation: Will work mainly with a fluid collection with the use of ethanol (EtOH). Will help on databasing, labeling, sorting and identification of specimens collected for the project, as well as imaging of specimens using microscopes and a Keyence system.

2. Molecular work: Will assist on the extraction of DNA and processing of tissues by removing legs and placing them in plates.

3. Collecting: Will assist in field work collecting and processing specimens using multiple collecting techniques, including direct collecting, looking under rocks and rotten logs or using tramps like pitfall or beating sheets. 

This position has the following requirements:

• BS or equivalent required.

• At least two years of experience working with live and preserved arthropods (insects and/or arachnids) in a lab or field setting.

• Experience working with natural history collections

• Some experience with, and knowledge of, spiders is highly desired, not required

• Some familiarity with molecular techniques like DNA extraction and PCR is highly desired, not required

• Ability to work with small, fragile museum specimens that require care and fine manual dexterity

• Digital imaging experience

• Computer literacy with some experience in the use of databases.

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work outdoors, including hiking, carrying equipment, making collections.

NHMLAC is a nonprofit organization committed to fostering a workplace and public environment that uplifts Kindness, Fairness, Openness and Dignity. These values extend not only to our employees, but to our guests, local community, and organizational partners. If you are interested in this position, we encourage you to apply!

Hourly rate for this position is $23.23 with experience plus excellent benefits. This is a full-time temporary, non-exempt position with an end date of March 31, 2027.

A cover letter, current resume, and list of 3-4 references are required for all applicants. Review of applications begins immediately and continues until position is filled. Interested candidates please visit www.nhmlac.org/careers-our-museums  and click the link of the position for which you are interested or go directly to the online application.