Seasonal Field Technician

Position Summary:

The Field Technician will assist the Program Manager in conducting field surveys for the presence of sage-grouse in South-Central Washington. This seasonal full-time position involves performing transect surveys for sage-grouse scat, conducting roadside lek search surveys, and working with private landowners to gain access to their lands. The technician will be responsible for collecting field data and ensuring that survey protocols are followed.

Surveys will take place from early March until June 2025. In addition to assisting with the surveys, the Field Technician will work on data entry, coordinate landowner outreach, and support field logistics. The Field Technician will also document other state-listed Priority Habitats and Species (PHS) sighted during surveys.

This position is on-site to the Audubon Washington State Conservation.

Compensation:

$18.50 - $21.00 / hour

Essential Functions

• Conduct sage-grouse scat transects and lek search surveys across designated grids using established protocols, ensuring thorough documentation of findings.

• Maintain accurate field records, including observations of sage-grouse presence, habitat characteristics, and any other state-listed Priority Habitat and Species (PHS) observed during surveys.

• Assist in data entry, quality checks, and organizing survey results for timely reporting.

• Assist in securing landowner permissions and ensuring access to private lands for survey activities.

• Help maintain and operate field equipment, including GPS units, data loggers, and other survey tools.

• Ensure that safety protocols are followed in the field, including when working in remote areas or with wildlife.

• Coordinate and assist with logistics for field activities, including transportation and supplies for field surveys.

• Document and report any disturbances or challenges to sage-grouse habitats, such as development, invasive species, or land use changes

• Partner/Collaborate/Assist with Audubon staff to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work.

• Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.

• Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas, including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology, environmental science, or a related field; an understanding of ecological principles and the scientific method is essential.

• At least 1-2 years of field experience in wildlife biology, bird conservation, or habitat restoration, with a preferred focus on avian species.

• Knowledge of sage-grouse ecology and habitat requirements is highly desirable.

• Experience conducting wildlife surveys, especially in remote and rugged field conditions.

• Proficient in using field equipment such as GPS units, range finders, and binoculars for wildlife surveys.

• Ability to maintain accurate field data records and familiarity with data entry software (e.g., Excel, Access, or specialized database programs).

• A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required; experience operating four-wheel-drive vehicles and navigating in rural or backcountry areas is strongly preferred.

• Ability and willingness to work long hours in the field, including early mornings and in challenging weather conditions.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage with landowners, stakeholders, and the public to foster partnerships and promote conservation efforts.

• Capable of working independently and as part of a team, with a high level of initiative and attention to detail.

• Comfortable working in a physically demanding environment, including walking long distances over rough terrain, carrying field equipment, and working in remote locations.

• Familiarity with wildlife conservation practices and landowner engagement strategies is a plus.

• Ability to adhere to established survey protocols and safety guidelines in the field.

• Demonstrated passion for wildlife conservation and commitment to the mission of Audubon Washington.

• Previous experience working with or surveying sage-grouse or similar species is a bonus.

• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

• Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to and experience in advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

EEO Statement

The National Audubon Society is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to a policy of nondiscrimination, inclusion and equal opportunity and actively seek a diverse pool of candidates in this search.

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