Seasonal Raptor Field Technician

We are seeking multiple Seasonal Raptor Field Technicians to assist nest and broadcast call surveys for the American Goshawk (Northern Goshawk-NOGO) within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in Arizona, June 15 through August 15, 2026 (tentative). This position will play a crucial role in collecting valuable data to support raptor conservation efforts on USFS managed lands. Compensation begins at $18 per hour, based on experience and skill level.  The work consists of conducting broadcast call surveys and nest searches for NOGOs in Post-Fledging Family Areas (PFAS) and inventories of unoccupied, suitable habitat within timber and fuels management units in the Black Mesa and Lakeside Ranger Districts of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Work will consist of long days in the field traversing over challenging terrain in remote areas. Work will follow a variable schedule largely depending on weather conditions. Dispersed car/tent camping will be required. Access to survey areas may be difficult and require backcountry camping to access sites. If no dispersed campsites are available, MTM will provide a group campsite at a nearby campground.

The position requires individuals who are comfortable working independently in remote environments, possess strong raptor identification skills, and have strong field navigation and data collection skills. 

Responsibilities:

• Conduct broadcast call surveys and nest searches for NOGO using standardized protocols (will be provided) each day.
• Identify all raptor species by sight and sound.
• Observe and record data on raptor behavior, nest locations, and habitat.
• Hike long distances off trail in steep rugged terrain on a regular basis, while carrying essential gear and water.
• Car and or tent camp daily, often in remote locations without cell service or facilities. May require backcountry camping to some sites.
• Accurately record and document field data, ensuring precision and attention to detail, following survey protocols.
• Utilize GPS and other technology for navigating to survey sites, surveying plots/transects, and recording field data.
• Organize and enter data, update timesheets and worklogs, and research how you’ll access survey locations.
• Maintain and troubleshoot field equipment, including optics, amplifiers, GPS devices, cameras, personal computer/tablet, cell phones, and Spot X devices.
• Work collaboratively with other technicians and project leads.
• Communicate effectively and timely with other field staff and project leads to provide updates on fieldwork progress.
• Submit data (datasheets, photos, GPS and GIS data, etc.) and timesheets to project lead on a timely basis, as requested.
• Prioritize safety in all field activities.
• Check in regularly with other field techs and project lead by phone, email, SPOT X, and/or radio.

Required Qualifications:

• Ability to identify raptor species by both sight and sound, particularly the American Goshawk.
• Comfortable working, traveling, and living in remote locations, independently or as a team.
• Capable of hiking off trail in steep rugged terrain up to 15 miles each day in extreme temperatures.
• A 4WD/AWD, high clearance vehicle is required for each team. Carpooling will be required.
• Have great attention to detail and accurately collect and enter data in the field and on a computer.
• Ability to follow instructions and submit timesheets and data timely as requested.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or related field preferred.
• Previous experience conducting raptor field surveys, preferably in the western US.
• Wilderness First Aid or similar certification or experience.
• Experience using a GPS and navigation apps (such as Avenza, GAIA GPS, OnX Maps, etc.).

Benefits:

• Compensation is $18 per hour based on experience and skill level.
• All work-related mileage incurred in execution of responsibilities using a personal vehicle will be reimbursed at the current federal mileage rate.

About Us:

MTM Environmental, LLC is a Certified Woman-Owned Small Business (“WOSB”) environmental consulting firm providing a wide range of ecological services for private landowners, land managers, entities, and organizations, such as wildlife surveys, stream sampling, vegetation surveys, environmental DNA sampling, land management planning, conservation easement and baseline documentation reports, mapping, wetland delineations, environmental site assessments, and drone imagery operations, among others. Since our launch in 2021, we have completed numerous projects across the U.S.