CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

CAREERS

PacVec shares career, internship, and fellowship opportunities provided by our partners and affiliations. Explore the current opportunities here:

STUDENT AND POSTDOCTORAL

Postdoctoral Research Associate- Canine Chagas Disease

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Sarah Hamer at Texas A&M University (TAMU) in the Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will advance research programs on canine Chagas disease, including new studies of treatment, diagnostics and epidemiology that have recently been funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Homeland Security. The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work collaboratively with additional investigators at TAMU (Dr. Ashley Saunders) and University of Georgia (Dr. Rick Tarleton). The DHS-funded work will be managed by the Cross-Border Threat Screening and Supply Chain Defense (CBTS), a U.S. Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence led by Texas A&M University.

For full consideration, apply by February 1, 2025 
Learn More.
Post-Doctoral Associate in Climate Applications to Vector-Borne Disease

The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado at Boulder (CU Boulder) encourages applications for a Post-Doctoral Associate in Climate Applications to Vector-Borne Disease in Boulder, Colorado. The successful candidate will work with colleagues engaged in researching the impacts of weather/climate on West Nile virus (WNV) in the United States. Recent research has shown that, at large spatial scales, incorporating relationships derived from historical climate data and neuroinvasive WNV case data into predictive models have the potential to improve forecasts of annual WNV disease counts.

University of Colorado is looking to expand on that research to improve those relationships and see if such WNV forecasts can be made in real time, with imperfect seasonal prediction models. Key colleagues have strong backgrounds in atmospheric science, and external research partners have strong backgrounds in public health and epidemiology. 

For full consideration, apply by January 2, 2025 
Learn More.
PhD Graduate Assistantship (VectorED Network, DE)

The graduate assistant will work under the supervision of Vincenzo Ellis on projects associated with the CDC funded VectorED Network: 1) molecular barcoding of mosquito species and 2) evaluation of a rodent baited vaccine against the Lyme disease pathogen Borrelia burgdorferi. Duties will include field work (trapping and identifying mosquitos, dragging for and identifying ticks), molecular lab work, bioinformatics, data analysis, and writing. This is a paid stipend position. To apply, email a 1) cover letter including research interests and relevant experiences, 2) CV including undergraduate GPA, Masters thesis information and GPA, publications (if any), and the names and contact information for two references including Masters degree major professor (indicate which reference person is Masters degree major professor) to Vincenzo Ellis with “PhD VectorED Assistantship” in the subject line.


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SUMMER AND SEASONAL

Seasonal Mosquito Education Internship (Fresno MVCD, CA)

Fresno Mosquito and Vector Control District is inviting applications to fill this position. The District accepts applications for seasonal employment throughout the year. Generally, the summer employment season is from March through October (depending on weather).

Location: Fresno, CA
Salary
: $18.00 per hour

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Seasonal Mosquito Control Technician (Fresno MVCD, CA)

Fresno Mosquito and Vector Control District is inviting applications to fill this position. The District accepts applications for seasonal employment throughout the year. Generally, the summer employment season is from March through October (depending on weather).

Location: Fresno, CA
Salary
: $20.00 – $21.50 per hour

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Seasonal Mosquito Control Aide (Fresno MVCD, CA)

Fresno Mosquito and Vector Control District is inviting applications to fill this position. The District accepts applications for seasonal employment throughout the year. Generally, the summer employment season is from March through October (depending on weather).

Location: Fresno, CA
Salary
: $18.00  – $19.00 per hour

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Seasonal Vector Control Aides I/II (San Mateo County MVCD, CA)

Applications are always accepted and kept on file for three years.

San Mateo County Mosquito & Vector Control is inviting applications to fill this position. Under direct supervision of the Operations Director, Field Operations Supervisor or Vector Control Technicians shall carry out routine inspections of residences in areas known to have mosquitoes, and/or complete field work entailing inspection and larvicidal treatment of creeks, catch basins, drains, salt marsh areas, miscellaneous sources, and stocking mosquito fish in backyard ponds. These positions also include preparing materials and equipment for work assignments, service requests, clearing access ways, some drainage maintenance, general maintenance, housekeeping, and assistance with frequent or routine needs. Seasonal employees are required to work dependably and cooperatively with others, maintain and appreciate safety precautions, and operate some specialized equipment. Seasonal employees may operate right-hand drive vehicles. Applications are always accepted and kept on file for three years.

Starting salary: $19.00 – $25.00 per hour (depending on experience)
Location: Burlingame, CA
Dates: April/May through October/November (season length varies)


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Seasonal Mosquito Vector Control Assistant (Butte County MVCD, CA)

Under the general direction of the District Manager and Assistant Manager and direct supervision of the Regional Supervisor and Mosquito and Vector Control Specialist, the Mosquito and Vector Control Assistant performs vector surveillance, performs vector control operations, and provides public education within the District’s service area, is assigned a geographic zone and/or specialized function of a vector control agency and performs work as required.

Location: Oroville, CA
Salary: $18.00 – $20.00 per hour
Applications due: Open until filled

Seasonal Lab Assistant (Butte County MVCD, CA)

Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District is inviting applications to fill this position. Under the general direction of the District Manager and direct supervision of the Entomologist II or Entomologist I / Biologist I, if an Entomologist II is not employed, the Lab Assistant, assists with vector surveillance, insect identification, pesticide efficacy trials, resistance studies, vector-borne disease surveillance, lab and surveillance equipment preparation and maintenance, tabulates data, and/or any other specialized function of a vector control agency and performs work as required. The District currently maintains 18 full-time employees on its staff. In addition, the District hires ten to fourteen seasonal employees during the mosquito season.

Location: Oroville, CA
Salary: $18.00 – $20.00 per hour
Applications due: Open until filled

VECTOR CONTROL / PUBLIC HEALTH

Laboratory Technician (Contra Costa County, CA)

Under the direct supervision of a Vector Ecologist and the general direction of the Scientific Programs Manager, the Laboratory Technician assists with field surveys for vectors and vector borne diseases, identifies mosquitoes and other organisms to species and submits them for testing, is responsible for care/maintenance of sentinel chicken flocks and the rearing and maintenance of mosquitoes and fish, records data and performs routine data entry, assists with laboratory assays and field research projects, keeps laboratory and equipment clean and organized, assists with repair and maintenance of surveillance equipment, and performs other work as needed by the District. 

This position is responsible for daily assistance with the District’s vector surveillance and laboratory programs and for collecting, analyzing, recording and entering surveillance data. The Laboratory Technician assists with studies and research performed by the laboratory. Must work cooperatively with other staff and the general public, use good judgement, and have the ability to work independently.


Location: Contra Costa County, CA
Starting salary: $7,430.15 – $9,957.11 per month 
Application due: Open until filled.

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Vector Control Technician (Contra Costa County, CA)

Under the direct supervision of a Program Supervisor and the general direction of the Operations Manager, performs inspections and control for all vector operations, provides assistance and support to other Vector Control personnel, and does related work and supportive services as required. Essential functions include extensive driving throughout the county, traversing various terrains to conduct surveillance, inspections and treatments, the ability to transport and apply pesticides, effective verbal and written communication with members of the public and other District personnel, the ability to efficiently plan and execute their daily workload with minimal supervision and exercise good judgement in assessing the appropriate treatments in various situations. 

The Vector Control Technician is responsible for tasks associated with Integrated Vector Management (IVM) within the county related to mosquito and vector control. Responsibilities include the application of comprehensive vector control measures with major emphasis on activities designed to inspect for and/or progressively reduce the vector population within an assigned area, and to assist the public with related vector problems. The Vector Control Technician must be proficient in and capable of accomplishing duties in all District vector operations.

Location: Contra Costa County, CA
Starting salary:  $7,243.81 – 9,707.41 per month 
Application due: Open until filled.

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Research Technician (Wooster, OH)

The Department of Entomology seeks a Research Technician for approximately 40 hours/week.

This position will maintain mosquito colonies, conduct toxicology bioassays on mosquitoes, collect and record experimental data, assist in preparation of reports and manuscripts, and assist in general lab inventory and organization including chemical hygiene and waste management.


Location: Wooster, OH
Starting salary:  $15.70-20.67/hour
Application due: Open until filled.

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Regional Communicable Disease Epidemiologist (Honolulu, HI)

The PIHOA Regional Communicable Disease Epidemiologist (RCDE) is a full-time exempt position located
in the PIHOA Honolulu, Hawaiʻi office. Under the direction of the PIHOA Regional Health Information Systems and Performance Improvement Coordinator (RHIS PM), the PIHOA RCDE will: 1) build epidemiological, surveillance, and health information systems capacity in USAPI health agencies; 2) provide direct services as needed; for example, in data analysis and public health emergency response; and 3) liaise with other PIHOA initiatives and regional, federal, and international agencies to inform and strengthen USAPI health outcomes.

 

Location: Honolulu, HI
Application due: open until filled

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GIS/IT Specialist (Fresno County, CA)

Under the general direction of the District Manager and direct supervision of the Office Administrator, the GIS/IT Specialist is responsible for coordinating the regular operation and maintenance of the Geographic Information System (GIS) for the District. The position evaluates and implements new developments in information technology (IT) systems.
 

Location: Fresno County, CA
Starting salary: :  $6,560 – $7,765 per month
Application due: Open until filled.

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Operations Program Manager (Delta, CA)

Under the general direction of the General Manager, the Operations Program Manager (OPM) is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District. This position includes planning, supervising, and coordinating all vector control inspection and control activities. The OPM also enforces District policies and safety standards, maintains operational records, and oversees pesticide application and environmental control measures. The OPM works collaboratively with other departments to ensure the District’s service excellence and may represent the District in public forums.
 

Location: Delta, CA
Starting salary: :  $95,972 – $119,974 (5-step scale), negotiable. per year
Application due: Open until filled.

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Entomologist III & IV (Lihue, Kauai, HI)

State Entomologist are concerned with flies, snails, beetles and other pests (including rodents) of economic and/or medical significance, and with the development, test or application of methods for their propagation or control. Major approaches to problem solving include methods of manipulating the effectiveness of the natural enemy; modifying the environment; changing adverse agricultural practices; introducing predators, parasites, pathogens and other beneficial organisms; devising and adapting abatement practices; applying chemicals; and integrating biological, chemical, cultural and/or other control measures. The Entomologist III independently performs a limited range of professional entomological assignments; may serve as project leader; and performs other related duties as assigned. The Entomologist IV independently performs the analysis, evaluation and solution of complex entomological problems with statewide implications; may supervise lower level entomologist as assigned; and performs other related duties as assigned.   

Location: Island of Kauai, HI
Starting salary: Level III – $4,690 to $5,713 per month (SR-20, Step D to I); Level IV – $5,076 to $6,177 per month (SR-22, Step D to I).
Application due: Continuous

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Entomologist III & IV (Wailuku to Kahului, Maui, HI)

State Entomologist are concerned with flies, snails, beetles and other pests (including rodents) of economic and/or medical significance, and with the development, test or application of methods for their propagation or control. Major approaches to problem solving include methods of manipulating the effectiveness of the natural enemy; modifying the environment; changing adverse agricultural practices; introducing predators, parasites, pathogens and other beneficial organisms; devising and adapting abatement practices; applying chemicals; and integrating biological, chemical, cultural and/or other control measures. The Entomologist III independently performs a limited range of professional entomological assignments; may serve as project leader; and performs other related duties as assigned. The Entomologist IV independently performs the analysis, evaluation and solution of complex entomological problems with statewide implications; may supervise lower level entomologist as assigned; and performs other related duties as assigned.   

Location: Island of Maui, HI
Starting salary: Level III – $4,690 to $5,713 per month (SR-20, Step D to I); Level IV – $5,076 to $6,177 per month (SR-22, Step D to I).
Application due: Continuous

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Operations Manager (Clarke, IL)

Working closely with the Director, the Operations Manager is responsible for cultivating a culture of performance based accountability, leadership and team building within the mosquito operations team while partnering closely with sales, customer care and other departments to help accomplish the vision of the mosquito operations team and prepare for organizational and departmental growth. He/she should also have a keen eye for safety as well as regulatory compliance and process improvements to ensure exceptional customer experiences. This position has direct oversight of Clarke’s team of Field Supervisors who work 50/50 in the office and field, as well as our team of mechanics/fleet operations. Indirect supervision includes over 100 seasonal technicians during the months of April – October.

Location: Roselle, IL

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ACADEMIC

Academic opportunities are organized by the most recent to the oldest job postings. 

Open Rank Tenure-Track Faculty in Vector Biology

The Department of Biological Sciences at Florida International University invites qualified candidates for an Open Rank (Assistant, Associate, or Full) Professor position in vector biology. Scientists working in the areas of arthropod molecular genetics, biochemistry, population genetics/genomics, neurobiology, or physiology are especially encouraged to apply. The successful candidate will be expected to have a solid publication record; to maintain an active, externally funded research program; to supervise graduate students in our Ph.D. program; and to teach undergraduate and graduate courses in their specific area of expertise as well as courses such as biochemistry, genetics, or cell biology. Successful candidates could also become affiliated with one or more research institutes such as the Biomolecular Sciences Institute and/or the Institute of Environment. The minimum requirements are a doctoral degree in a related field from an accredited institution and evidence of active research. Applicants with postdoctoral experience are preferred. The successful candidate is expected to build an internationally prominent research program by securing external funding, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, recruiting and mentoring graduate students, and contributing to undergraduate and graduate teaching.

For full consideration, apply by January 5, 2025. Learn More.

FELLOWSHIPS / FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

CDC Postdoctoral Fellowship in Molecular Entomological Surveillance
A research opportunity is available with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Fort Collins, Colorado. The participant will be involved in projects to learn about the development and improvement of molecular tools that inform decisions regarding vector mosquito control and surveillance. They will be trained in laboratory workflow development, specimen processing and management, next-generation sequencing, PCR assay development, and data analysis with a variety of tools (command line using CDC’s cluster computing resources, programs such as Geneious and CLC Genomics, and the online bioinformatics platform Galaxy). The fellow will have the opportunity to develop their own related side project if desired. The mentor and contact for questions about this opportunity is Michael Huston (yfk0@cdc.gov). Anticipated Appointment Start Date: September 16, 2024. Apply right away if you are interested, and feel free to forward this opportunity to others. Start date is flexible and will depend on a variety of factors. The appointment will initially be for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of CDC and is contingent on the availability of funds. Learn More.
Call for Research Proposals: Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District Funding Opportunity
The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is requesting research proposals. This funding opportunity is aimed at improving our Integrated Vector Management Program targeting mosquitoes, red imported fire ants, and flies in the Coachella Valley. Past research projects have included spatial mosquito repellents, virus transmission models, vegetation management in wetlands, biological control of fire ants, and activity of house flies. Because of the unique environment including very high temperatures and low precipitation, projects designed to work with the environmental conditions for surveillance of vectors and vector-borne diseases and projects that tailor control methods to the habitat here are of great interest. Please see our website for guidelines on proposal submission, interests of the District, and a budget worksheet (you can obtain these at here under Research Program FY 2024-2025).

ADDITIONAL CAREER WEBSITES

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Please contact us if your agency has seasonal positions that may be of interest to undergraduate students in the Pacific Southwest region! Such positions are important formative experiences for students, and they are excellent opportunities to raise awareness of career opportunities in vector-borne diseases. PacVec will help advertise by sharing simple job postings with our undergraduate students through our website, weekly newsletters, and job announcements. We can also help you partner with faculty for project-based internships that involve academic credit with a faculty mentor and possible continued data analysis during the school year. To maximize your audience and reach the best candidates for your positions, please send us these position announcements as early as possible, ideally in January or February, before students have settled their summer plans.

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The Pacific Southwest Regional Center of Excellence in Vector-Borne Diseases is supported through Cooperative Agreement Number 1U01CK000649 between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the University of California, Davis.

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