Point Blue Conservation Science is a growing and internationally renowned non-profit organization with over 160 staff and scientists. Founded in 1965 as Point Reyes Bird Observatory, our mission and programs have evolved over time to include a broad range of conservation activity, from restoration to environmental education to innovative work in the field of regenerative agriculture. We have a proven track record of scientific excellence.

We are hiring up to three seasonal Avian Technicians to conduct point count and Willow Flycatcher surveys, in addition to vegetation/habitat surveys for breeding birds in meadows of the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. These positions will provide the opportunity to explore large portions of this incredible landscape. We are also interested in folks who have previous experience with running passive mist netting operations (although not required), as at least one person will help run two MAPS stations near Lassen Volcanic National Park. Field work covers a vast profile of elevations in coniferous forest, post-fire, meadow, and chaparral habitats. This program offers a unique opportunity to explore and observe birds in some of the most beautiful landscapes in California, across a wide range of habitats, while collecting data to guide management and restoration in the Sierra Nevada and Southern Cascades.

We are committed to removing barriers based on racial, gender, cultural, and other factors and believe that equal representation is essential to the success of Point Blue's mission and vision. We seek and strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds to join our teams. 

Duration: May 18 – July 31, 2026 (start date depends on experience)

Location: Shared housing will be provided in the Northern Sierra, likely in our field station along the Feather River in Chester, CA or near Truckee, CA. If based in Truckee, housing could potentially be in a rental house, or at an RV park, depending on housing availability. Housing will likely be communal with other technicians working on the same, or other, field research projects in the Sierra.

Job type: Full-time, seasonal

Compensation: $23.15 per hour, depending on experience, with overtime pay according to California State law. Hourly rate of pay subject to change due to 2026 salary projections. Shared housing or campsite, and utilities, are provided at a cost of $64.04 per week, rate subject to increase. Benefits limited to up to 40 hours of sick pay.

Primary duties include but are not limited to: Multi-species point counts; Willow Flycatcher surveys; vegetation and habitat surveys; data entry and proofing; navigating cross-country in mountainous terrain sometimes with dense vegetation; driving company-leased 4WD vehicle; data entry and proofing. Position covers sites across a broad geography requiring travel between sites, frequently on unpaved roads and regular front-country car camping. Depending on experience, run or assist with bird banding operations at two MAPS stations. Work weeks vary from 5-6 days and are typically 40-45 hours but vary from 35-55 hours.

Qualifications:

• One season of work experience identifying multiple bird species by sight and sound in the Western U.S. or Western Canada using point count methods
• Must be able to identify over 100 bird species by sight and sound following 1 week of training (we will provide species lists, audio recordings and links to learning resources before the position begins)
• Must feel confident in your ability to hike and navigate cross-country in steep, mountainous terrain and complex wetland habitats with uneven ground and dense shrub cover
• Must have previous backpacking experience, preferably working in a backcountry setting
• We require self-motivation, enthusiasm, a good sense of direction, the ability to cope with inclement weather, the willingness to spend long hours in the field observing birds and their habitat with additional time behind a laptop, and the ability to work well independently and in a group-living situation
• Must have a valid U.S. driver’s license, at least two years of driving experience, and will be asked to provide information to verify their good driving record with one or fewer moving violations in the last three years

Preferred qualifications:

• One season work experience identifying multiple bird species by sight and sound in mountain habitats of the Western U.S. or Western Canada using point count methods
• Previous experience working with Willow Flycatchers
• Experience identifying trees and shrubs and with habitat surveys
• Multiple seasons of experience with passive bird banding operations
• An academic background in ecology, environmental studies, or related field

Work environment & physical requirements: Operates in remote environments, with limited cell phone reception, complex mountainous terrain, often in a solitary capacity, with the rare possibility of encountering predatory wildlife. Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds and hike up to 8 miles. Throughout the summer, mornings can be at, or below freezing, and late mornings can become hot.

Equipment: Field technicians should have their own field gear including binoculars, camping gear, hiking boots, knee high rubber boots, tent, sleeping bag, raingear, watch with countdown timer, etc. A list of required and suggested items to bring with you will be provided upon hiring. Please speak to the interviewing biologist if this presents an overwhelming financial burden; it may be possible to find some personal gear for loan for the duration of the season. Additional survey gear including GPS, chest or hip waders, and laser range finder will be provided by Point Blue.

Point Blue is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, disability status of an otherwise qualified individual, membership or application for membership in an uniformed service, or membership in any other class protected by applicable law and will make reasonable accommodation for applicants  with disabilities to complete the application and/or participate in the  interview process.