Requisition Id: 4547
Salary: $20.08 - $24.54 Salary Grade: H6
Job Location: Rockwoods Reservation (WILDW1)
Closing Date: June 26, 2026Our Culture: The Missouri Department of Conservation supports a culture of trusted professionals that is dedicated to our mission, responsible stewards, and believe in One MDC.To learn more about the job, feel free to contact the hiring supervisor,Ethan S Baker at Ethan.Baker2@mdc.mo.gov or at573 5224115, during regular business hours. We would love to hear from you!
Summary/ObjectiveThe Wildlife Health Technician plays a crucial role in supporting MDC chronic wasting disease surveillance by engaging with meat processors and taxidermists (CWD Cooperators) within their designated region. The position entails enrolling CWD Cooperators into the program, training Cooperators on the collection of retropharyngeal lymph nodes, checking on the accurate completion of data forms, and ensuring that cooperators adhere to their contractual obligations. Opportunities working on statewide surveillance of other diseases present in Missouri will also arise throughout the tenure of the position (September 1st through March 1st).
Essential Job Duties- Extensive travel throughout the region to visit each CWD Cooperator, collect samples, and deliver essential supplies. Average driving times are estimated to be no less than 20 hours per week from November to March.
- Responsible for organizing and submitting biological samples to the Wildlife Health Laboratory either in person or by mail. Sample totals can range from 500 to 1400 per region.
- Entering, correcting, and validating CWD sample data within the state-managed application.
- Always represent the department in a professional manner, especially when interacting with the public.
- Correspond with CWD Cooperators and MDC staff via email, telephone, and in-person discussion.
- Help as needed with other disease surveillance across your region including data entry, sample collection, and aiding with necropsies.
Ancillary Job Duties - Other duties as assigned.
Education and Experience- Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Natural Resources, Biological Sciences, or related field.
- Must maintain a valid, current driver's license.
- Previous experience in the field of wildlife health and biological sample collection is desired.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities- Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
- Demonstrate the capacity to maintain a positive attitude in challenging circumstances.
- Proficiency in prioritizing and managing multiple tasks simultaneously and efficiently.
- Capable of working independently.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Effective time management to complete tasks by necessary deadlines.
Work Environment- Regularly work in outdoor environments subject to varying conditions such as heat, cold, humidity, and precipitation.
- Complete tasks within a standard office setting, as well as in vehicles, garage bays, and necropsy/laboratory environments.
- Engage in solitary travel to various businesses and residences, including some situated in remote locations.
- Occasional overnight travel is required.
Physical Abilities- Maintain a stationary position for approximately 70% of the duration of work tasks.
- Proficiently operate a computer and various office equipment.
- Regularly lift up to 30 pounds, correctly lift up to 75 pounds.
- Exercise concentrated attention consistently throughout all tasks.
- Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function.
DisclaimerThis job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; an employee will also perform other reasonably related job responsibilities as assigned by immediate supervisor and other management as required. The Missouri Department of Conservation reserves the right to revise or change job duties as the need arises. This job description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. Management reserves the right to change job descriptions, job duties, functions, and requirements.
Exemption Status/Special NotesThis position has been determined to be
Nonexempt according to the Fair Labor Standards Act. Employees must agree to accept compensatory time in lieu of cash payments in accordance with the Department's Compensatory Time Off and Overtime Policy.
Salaried and hourly employees are expected to use a mobile device-cellular phone for Department business, as needed.
MDC promotes a Tobacco-Free (smoke and smokeless) working environment.
The Department of Conservation will only hire United States citizens and aliens authorized to work in the United States. All new employees will be required to complete an "Employment Eligibility Verification" (Form I-9) and produce requested documentation after employment.
Candidates seeking initial employment or re-employment must submit to a drug screen following offer of employment.
All persons employed with the state of Missouri shall file all state income tax forms and pay all state income taxes owed.