Wildlife Field Technician

PAS is seeking an experienced field technician to conduct protocol-level surveys for various wildlife species, including but not limited to: Western & Clark’s grebes, endangered Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frogs, American goshawk, and proposed endangered California spotted owl. PAS also occasionally conducts habitat restoration projects. Projects are dependent on funding. There may also be opportunities to work on additional projects.

This position is full-time throughout the survey period (May–August) and requires residence in Plumas County. The wildlife field technician will work closely with the crew lead to ensure that surveys are conducted in accordance with recommended protocols and that data is recorded and documented accurately. The wildlife field technician may work independently or with other crew members.

Fieldwork for this position will be primarily on Plumas National Forest lands in California’s Sierra Nevada Range. With elevations ranging from 3,000 to 7,000 feet, the environment in these mountains varies anywhere between deep valleys of old-growth forest, steep densely forested terrain, and post-fire landscapes. The work generally requires a great amount of physical exertion because it involves long hours of hiking on closed roads and trails. Off-trail hikes on steep, rocky terrain will be frequent. Technicians must be willing and able to carry backpacks and research equipment weighing up to 45 pounds, hike off-trail, and work in inclement weather conditions that may include wind, rain, snow, and sun exposure. Fieldwork will require a flexible schedule, typically 8-10 hours per shift during the summer months. Dates of employment will vary depending on ecological factors, survey priority, and wildfire season. This is a full-time seasonal position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

● Conduct protocol-level surveys for various wildlife species throughout Forest Service lands on the Plumas National Forest.

● Record accurate and complete data.

● Upload data to Plumas Audubon Society network server, with attention to data management throughout the season.

● Coordinate with the Crew Lead to accomplish the goals of the survey plan.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

● Bachelor’s degree in related field or four years of direct, relevant experience

● Atleast one year experience conducting wildlife surveys and summarizing biological data

● Ability to use GPS, maps, compass, and navigate off trail

● Ability to maintain field equipment and facilities

● Ability to work as part of a team and independently

● Ability to effectively interact with staff at all levels and other partner agencies and organizations

● Ability to maintain effective work relationships with co-workers and work-related contacts

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS:

● Experience pulling/hauling trailers, experience driving manual vehicles

● Boat driving experience

● Wilderness First Aid/First Responder certification

● Knowledge of Sierra Nevada fauna

● GIS, Gaia, and/or Avenza experience