Avian Survey Biologists – Marbled Murrelet

Come join the Turnstone Environmental team, and spend your summer hiking throughout Oregon’s Coast Range! Turnstone is currently hiring multiple field biologists to conduct surveys for the marbled murrelet, a threatened species of seabird that nests primarily in coastal old growth forests. These positions are considered full-time seasonal. Surveys will be on federal, state and private lands in beautiful western Oregon. 

Location: We typically have field crews based in the beautiful Oregon towns of Astoria, Corvallis, Forest Grove, McMinnville, Tillamook, and potentially southern Oregon.

 
Salary Range & INCENTIVES: Surveyor Salary $2650 – $3535/ month (equivalent to $15.30 – $20.40 hourly). Salary range is dependent upon project and applicant experience. 

Monthly vehicle reimbursement with use of personal field capable vehicle Season Completion Bonus! Field housing (depending on location) 

Dates of Employment: Mid-April 2024 to late-July/Early August 2024 (possibility of extension). Due to protocol requirements, mission critical work periods include April 22-26, June 27-28, and July 1-21; work schedule can be more flexible during other parts of the field season—please inquire during interview. Some weekend work may be required. 

  Job Duties:

• Conduct marbled murrelet surveys following an established protocol
• Work independently in the early morning hours (including pre-dawn) in the forest
• Use GPS and basic navigational tools to locate and set up survey stations
• Record, transcribe and submit accurate survey data
• Submit weekly and monthly paperwork such as timesheets and mileage logs
• Communicate clearly with crew leader and project manager

All surveyors will be provided with extensive training prior to starting surveys. This work involves a lot of solo driving, hiking through the woods in the dark along flag lines (no trails!), and enjoying regular periods of inclement weather! 

Typically, housing is provided for our field crews. Occasional camping is often preferred and may be required at times. A field vehicle will be provided unless the employee chooses to use a personal vehicle for reimbursement.  

Desired Qualifications: Applicants should have or be working towards a B.S. degree in wildlife biology (or a closely related field). Previous field experience is preferred, but not required. Additional preferred qualifications include: 

• The ability to tackle the rigors of field work, feel comfortable hiking alone each day in steep and variable terrain, and willingness to spend long hours in the field and work odd hours, including very early morning
• A strong work ethic, and integrity, and accuracy in adhering to scientific protocols and in recording data
• Knowledge of navigating with a compass, GPS and topographic map
• Working knowledge of western bird identification (or willingness to learn)
• Flexible, detail-oriented, resourceful, and comfortable working independently while also being part of a larger team
• A valid state-issued driver’s license with clean driving record and the ability to navigate forest roads of variable condition and operate a 4WD vehicle
• Applicants must have normal vision and hearing, must submit hearing test results prior to starting work
• A general appreciation of the natural wonders of the Oregon coast and a willingness to explore them.

Successful candidates will gain valuable experience in field ornithology, endangered species surveys, advanced field skills, and get a chance to see what a career in environmental consulting could look like, all while working closely with a diverse team of other motivated folks in the beautiful Pacific Northwest! 

There may also be opportunities before, after, or part-time during the field season to work on a variety of other interesting and collaborative field projects related to special-status wildlife species for the right candidates. Interviews are currently underway and will continue until all positions are filled. Once positions are filled, this application will remain as an open continuous announcement for applicants interested in any future openings that may occur with increased workloads.

Turnstone is committed to building a diverse team where differences are valued and respected. Women, minorities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.