Field Sampler (part-time)

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About the engagement

SecureBio Detection (SB Det) is scaling a city‑wide swab‑sampling initiative to strengthen early detection of emerging pathogens. We’re always looking for motivated individuals to support this mission. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we’ll reach out if you seem like a good fit.

As a Field Sampler, you’ll spend two to four days a week approaching members of the public, inviting them to participate in our study, and handing samples off for analysis. You’ll be paid on a per-hour basis, with an additional bonus depending on the number of swabs collected. Given past sampling rates, we project an hourly wage of $23-$27.

What you’ll do

  • Recruit participants who will self-collect swab samples at various sites around Boston and Cambridge on two to four weekdays from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM (including a sample drop-off and a paid 30-minute lunch break).
  • Engage and reassure participants: answering questions and clearly explaining our work.
  • Handle samples responsibly, following our simple biosafety checklist.
  • Represent SecureBio Detection with professionalism and enthusiasm.

What a typical workday looks like

  • 08:30 – 09:00: Meet your sampling partner at 1 Broadway (Kendall Sq.). Pick up sampling materials.
  • 09:00 – 09:30: Travel to the field sampling location.
  • 09:30 – 15:00: Sample collection.
  • 15:00 – 15:30: Drop samples off at lab in Cambridge. Return gear to office, log hours & sampling metrics.

Who we’re looking for

  • Extraversion: You’re comfortable approaching strangers and enjoy friendly conversation.
  • Caring for SecureBio’s mission: You are motivated to help us in our mission to better detect new pathogen outbreaks.
  • Reliable & conscientious: You show up on time, follow protocols, and log accurate data.
  • Availability: You can start work immediately.

Application Details

  • This position is not eligible for benefits (health insurance, paid time off, etc.)
  • SecureBio is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees.