Tick Surveillance Biologists

Job Title: Tick Surveillance Biologists Location: Richmond, VA, 23219 Pay Rate: $22.50/hr. without benefits Duration: 3+ months Shift Timing (Day/ Evening/ Night): DayJob Summary: The Department of Health, Division of Surveillance and Investigation, is seeking two Seasonal Tick Surveillance Biologists to support the State Public Health Entomologist (SPHE) in statewide tick monitoring efforts. These positions involve both field-based tick collection and laboratory-based tick identification. Position Summary Selected candidates will participate in tick surveillance activities across designated sites in Virginia. Operations will be based out of the Virginia Department of Health in Richmond, which will serve as the primary location for the tick identification laboratory and the departure point for field surveys. Fieldwork will generally consist of single-day trips, though overnight travel may occasionally be required (with lodging reimbursed). Role & Responsibilities: Conduct tick sampling using 1-meter square drag cloths across various natural habitats. Walk for extended periods in forested areas, often involving stooping or kneeling to collect ticks. Identify and collect even the smallest tick life stages. Laboratory Responsibilities: Sort and identify ticks by species and life stage using dissecting and compound microscopes. Use tick identification keys and follow standardized identification protocols. Assist in processing and pooling field-collected ticks. Support sorting and identification of ticks submitted by the public through the Citizen Science Tick Survey. Training & Support: The SPHE will provide training in tick surveillance methods, laboratory identification, field safety, and occupational health. All necessary equipment (microscopes, identification tools, PPE) will be provided. Transportation: The SPHE may rent a state vehicle for transporting seasonal staff to field sites; travel time from the Richmond VDH office will be compensated. Candidates must have access to a personal vehicle for some site visits; mileage for work-related travel will be reimburse Minimum Qualifications: Enrollment in a degree program related to: Entomology. Epidemiology. Biology. Forestry. Wildlife Biology. Environmental Health Science. Veterinary Medicine. Public Health. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in any of the above disciplines. Previous training or coursework in entomology or field biology. Experience using dissecting and compound microscopes, and dichotomous keys. Strong organizational and communication skills. Excellent data management practices. Ability to navigate using road maps and travel through unfamiliar forest terrain without a map.

Created: 2026-03-09