Avian Monitoring Technician, California (Seasonal)

OFFICE LOCATION

Galt, California, USA.

WHO WE ARE

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Grounded in science, we develop innovative solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity; respect for people, communities, and cultures; and a collaborative, nonpartisan approach. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world. 

The California Chapter is TNC’s largest state program and one of the largest, most dynamic conservation organizations in the country. With approximately 275 employees, from financial analysts and fundraisers to ecologists and economists, we are currently invested in 14 strategies to address the biggest challenges facing California and the world, including numerous community-based projects designed to increase the pace, scale, and effectiveness of conservation. Over the past six decades, we have protected 1.4 million acres, 5,000 miles of streams, and 3.8 million acres of ocean habitat in California and off the coast. 

The California Chapter believes that we are most effective when we are embedded in our state’s communities, politics, media, and environmental issues. For this reason, and to reduce our carbon footprint when meeting in person, all staff live in California, including those in a home office.

Finally, we are passionate about the middle ground in American politics and life. The hallmark of The Nature Conservancy is its “big tent” approach, engaging people across the political and ideological spectrum to find solutions that last. We ask all employees to embrace this critical strategic position of our organization.

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

The Avian Monitoring Technician performs a variety of routine tasks that assist the implementation of bird-friendly agriculture objectives within the California Chapter of The Nature Conservancy. To support the establishment of 1,000,000 acres of bird-friendly agriculture in California, the Migratory Bird Initiative is implementing new projects that demonstrate compatible agricultural practices. As these innovative agricultural techniques are yet untested, the Avian Monitoring Technician will work with a team to quantify the biological value of these techniques on Staten Island, CA and other land throughout the Central Valley.

The Technician provides research and administrative assistance to program and preserve staff, builds relationships with land managers, and aids in project management. As part of the team the Technician will support implementing and monitoring habitat programs to ensure successful habitat creation. They may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstance.

We will hire 3 seasonal Technicians with staggered start dates between mid-July and late October 2024. Housing is a condition of employment and may involve shared housing. Applicants may propose alternative housing arrangements at their own expense.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Are you looking for a career conserving nature? Do you enjoy working outside with wildlife and have an interest in habitat management? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is a passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!

WHAT YOU’LL BRING

• Associate degree (in natural resources, environmental studies or related field) and 6 months of work experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Experience identifying western waterbirds (including difficult to distinguish shorebirds) to species by sight in the field.
• Experience conducting avian surveys with binoculars and spotting scopes (including skills counting birds in large flocks).
• Experience managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources and strong time management skills.
• Clear communication via written, spoken, and graphical means in English.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to adhere to established safety protocols.
• Data management skills and experience using applicable software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, ArcGIS Online, Survey123).
• Experience driving 4×4 vehicles off-road.
• Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

WHAT WE BRING

Each person who works at TNC contributes to our goal of protecting nature for future generations. Another one of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe feel that their unique contributions are valued. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “You’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.” To learn more, head to YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.  

We’re proud to support the health and wellbeing of the people we employ. We offer a competitive, comprehensive benefits package that includes healthcare coverage, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, and other benefits that support work-life balance. 

If you’re interested in working with us, please apply—we’d love to hear from you.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program.

Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered “high risk drivers.” To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/careers/recruitment/ under the FAQ section.

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee’s motor vehicle record.

SALARY INFORMATION

The starting pay for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $23.30 – 26.80 per hour. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA and county of employment is Sacramento, CA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including the candidate’s location, qualifications, skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

Need help applying? Visit our recruitment page or contact applyhelp@tnc.org.

Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!

TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Our commitment to diversity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people with diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization that reflects our global character is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, gender identities, military or veteran status or other status protected by law. 

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy’s background screening process.