Biology Specimen Preparator Collections Assistant

Responsibilities

• Dissect and prepare salvaged wildlife carcasses into research-quality museum specimens, including stuffed skins, flat wings, and skeletons.
• Coordinate lab activities to ensure collections-based tasks are completed in a timely manner.
• Collect and manage specimen data, including imaging, measurements, and parasite collection, using databases and spreadsheets.
• Follow cold chain preservation protocols for tissue samples intended for cryostorage.
• Clean skeletal material using live dermestid beetles while preventing collection infestation.
• Maintain a clean, organized workspace within the shared Biology Lab.
• Manage carcass and sample inventory throughout the specimen-processing pipeline.
• Assist, train, and oversee volunteers and other technicians involved in project work.
• Communicate scientific work to the public through outreach events, donors, and public dissections.
• Accept and pick up material transfers from partner institutions, which may involve grant-funded travel.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Proven experience with vertebrate specimen preparation.
• Experience with accurate data entry and management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working specifically within museum collections.
• Experience communicating science to the general public.
• Graduate-level coursework in a related field.
• Coursework in library and information science or museum studies.
• Valid driver’s license.

About the Company

The Science Museum of Minnesota is a leading natural history institution dedicated to inspiring curiosity and providing educational experiences that connect people to the natural world.