Job Description

Research Assistant

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations.

DZCA honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.

The Research Assistant will support the DZCA mission by collecting data from both on-site and off-site experiences and programs. This role involves gathering qualitative and quantitative data through surveys, interviews, and observations to improve operations at the zoo. The Research Assistant will assist with developing and translating data collection tools, transcribing audio recordings, and supporting interviews and focus groups. Additionally, the role requires traveling to various community locations to observe programs and gather data, using digital tools to input and manage the collected information.

Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Collect qualitative and quantitative data through surveys administered using digital and/or paper formats.
• Assist in the development, translation, and adaptation of data collection tools (e.g., surveys, interview guides).
• Transcribe and/or translate audio data, such as interviews or focus groups, with a high level of accuracy.
• Facilitate or support interviews and focus groups with community members.
• Conduct structured and unstructured observations of human behavior on the campus and at off-site partner locations in the community.
• Travel to community locations to observe and support programming and gather data in diverse settings.
• Utilize digital tools such as iPads, tablets, and laptops to input, manage, and conduct preliminary analysis of collected data.

Technical/Professional Requirements & Qualifications:

• Completion or in pursuit of a high school degree or equivalent.
• 1-2 years' experience working within research, in a nonprofit and/or academic setting is preferred, or any equivalent combination of experience, lived experience, and/or special skills.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Requires organizational skills, written and oral communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize work and tasks. Requires adaptability to produce and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, multi-task, and changing environment, and the ability to work as part of a team.
• Strong interviewing, observation, and documentation skills.
• Basic skills in using digital tools (e.g., tablets, iPads, Microsoft Office or Google Suite).
• Familiarity with research or survey tools (e.g., Qualtrics, Excel, SPSS, NVivo, etc., if applicable).
• Ability to communicate and facilitate data collection is required.
• Basic understanding of research methods, including surveys, interviews, and observations.
• Awareness of cultural humility and inclusive research practices, especially in community-based settings.
• General familiarity with data privacy and ethical considerations in human subjects research.
• Comfortable interacting with individuals of various ages, backgrounds, and experiences.
• Ability to remain flexible and solution-oriented in dynamic or changing environments.
• Ability to accurately follow research protocols and adapt in both on-campus and community-based settings.
• Experience working with diverse communities and community-based research.
• Bilingual in Spanish/English bonus, a pay differential will be paid for candidates with verified Spanish speaking fluency.
• Comfortable working a flexible schedule, with hours varying between 20 and 40 per week based on program and research needs.

Position Conditions

• Ability to pass a background check and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.

Compensation

The range for this position is $19.36 to $22.27.

A Truly Wild Workplace with Competitive Benefits

Join our team and enjoy a wide variety of great benefits, including:

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage
• 403(b) Retirement Account with employer match
• Generous paid time off: vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays
• A Family DZCA Membership with discounted tickets to special events
• Concession and retail discounts, plus free parking
• And so much more!

Application Process & Timelines:

Resumes / Completed applications must be submitted by July 27, 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately. Denver Zoo reserves the right to close the position prior to this date.

Denver Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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