Job Title: Basin Assessment Seasonal Technician

Reports to: Monitoring Program Coordinator and Monitoring Project Manager At-will, non-benefited position 0.9 – 1.0 FTE (35-40 hours/week)

Starting Compensation: $17/hr to $21/hr depending on experience

Position Start Date: May 18th, 2026

Position End Date: late October

About the Coquille Watershed Association

The Coquille Watershed Association (CoqWA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was formed by a small group of local citizens who were passionate about the health of the watershed. Since that humble beginning, CoqWA has established restoration, monitoring, and educational programming that is valued and supported throughout the watershed. Our mission is to work collaboratively with landowners to promote healthy and resilient ecosystems and economies in the Coquille watershed. CoqWA is supported by a volunteer Board of Directors representing a variety of stakeholders. CoqWA is also advised by local technical advisors housed in local, state, and federal natural resource agencies. Here at CoqWA, we value our collaborative, supportive workplace culture that contributes to our success in accomplishing high value, high impact projects throughout the watershed. By applying to work with us you have the opportunity to join a small but mighty staff team working cohesively to enhance our organization and our watershed.

Position Summary

The Coquille Watershed Association (CoqWA) is seeking a Basin Assessment Seasonal Technician to assist with aquatic and riparian habitat surveys and road assessments throughout the Coquille watershed.

This is a field-based position. Field days will often involve several miles of hiking, wading through streams, navigating dense riparian vegetation including poison oak and blackberry briars, and working in steep terrain under a variety of weather conditions.

The Seasonal Technician will work closely with the Basin Assessment Crew Lead, forming a two-person field crew responsible for implementing basin assessment surveys throughout the summer field season. Surveys will include Aquatic Habitat Inventory (AQI) surveys following Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife protocols and road sediment assessments using Geomorphic Road Analysis and Inventory Package (GRAIP) methods. Training will be provided for both protocols.

Technicians may also assist with other monitoring and restoration-related activities during the season.

Field crews work Monday through Thursday, 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Survey work in the South Fork Coquille sub-basin will involve camping on U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands during the work week (Monday–Thursday) between May and September to support access to more remote survey locations. Camping typically occurs in dispersed or minimally developed sites. Please note that camping gear will not be provided, and the Technician will be expected to supply their own equipment for overnight field stays.

Low-cost seasonal housing may be available through the Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge for approximately $230 per month, depending on availability through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. If housing is not available, employees will be responsible for securing housing in the area.

Principal Duties/Expectations

• Conduct stream surveys following ODFW Aquatic Habitat Inventory (AQI) protocols (training will be provided).
• Conduct road and stream crossing surveys using GRAIP methods to identify sediment sources and fish passage barriers (training will be provided).
• Use GPS units, tablets, and field data sheets to collect accurate habitat and road condition data.
• Maintain accurate field notes, records, and documentation.
• Participate in limited GIS-based data review and organization.
• Assist with other watershed tasks as needed during the season (e.g., water temperature monitoring, riparian maintenance, etc.).
• Follow CoqWA safety protocols and ensure a safe working environment
• Represent CoqWA professionally when interacting with landowners and the public.
• Work cooperatively as part of a small field team and under the direction of the Crew Lead and Program Coordinator.

Qualifications

Education

• Preference will be given to applicants with a degree in natural resources, environmental sciences, fisheries, forestry, or a related field; however, applicants currently pursuing a degree in these areas will also be considered.
• Relevant fieldwork experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

General Requirements

• 18 years of age or older.
• A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn new skills are essential.
• Able to perform strenuous outdoor work, including carrying up to 40 pounds, hiking multiple miles a day, working in and around streams, and tolerating varied weather conditions.
• Comfortable working in and around moving water and rocky, slick terrain.
• Basic navigation skills (field maps, GPS, digital apps)
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word and Excel)
• Excellent attention to detail for data entry and field documentation.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, follow instructions, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to make decisions independently in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Willingness and ability to drive 4-wheel drive trucks on varying and rough terrain.
• First Aid/CPR certification or willingness to obtain (training may be provided).