https://www.tcrcd.net\

Field Operations Specialist ~ Ecological Monitoring
Trinity County Resource Conservation District is accepting applications for the position of Ecological Monitoring – Field Operations Specialist.  This position works closely under the supervision of the Program Manager, and may perform a variety of natural resources related tasks.  The Ecological Monitoring Field Operations Specialist is a full-time seasonal position and will work from April to September 2026. There is the potential for additional work following this timeframe, based on performance and program needs.

The Ecological Monitoring Field Operations Specialist will be primarily leading Northern Spotted Owl surveys, in-stream water temperature monitoring, and spawning salmon surveys with additional multi-disciplinary opportunities.  This position requires a person who possesses good communication skills, can work and lead a field-going crew, and conduct fieldwork in a variety of environments and weather conditions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
The following qualifications of this position will need to be addressed in your resume, application, or interview:

• Two or more years of combined education and professional experience in an environmental science, including but not limited to ecology, botany, forestry, biology, fisheries, environmental science, or related field.
• One to three years of supervisory or leadership experience, ideally in a field setting.
• Demonstrated proficiency with time and crew management, and conducting interdisciplinary protocols with various timelines, schedules, and data products
• Understanding of basic ecological principles and knowledge of California species
• Demonstrated proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office
• Experience with GIS software, including map preparation and basic data management.
• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills, including public speaking.
• Ability to follow verbal or written protocols, communicate effectively, and independently solve problems
• Ability to work independently or as a team to complete tasks, sometimes with minimal direct supervision
• Ability to complete work safely in a backcountry setting with a crew of 2-4 people
• Ability to hike upwards of 6 miles through rugged terrain, carrying up to 30 pounds
• Ability to lift and/or move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Possession of a valid California Driver’s license

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Preference will be given to candidates with the following skills and experience. Please include relevant experience that relates to the desired qualifications below.

• Ability to work long days out in the field with others while maintaining a positive attitude
• Experience living or working in remote areas without cell service and the use of a Garmin InReach, satellite devices, or radios for communication
• Experience collecting data with a GPS unit, reading, and navigating with topographical and satellite maps
• Experience backcountry camping and Leave No Trace practices
• Experience following standardized protocols, reading scientific instruments, and recording data digitally on apps such as Avenza Maps, Survey 123, and FieldMaps, or paper datasheets.
• Experience transcribing and recording data into Microsoft Excel and following QA/QC protocols
• Experience conducting snorkel surveys and/or swimming and hiking long distances with a wetsuit and gear.
• Strong swimming ability desired, with distances from 3-5 miles
• Experience conducting Northern Spotted Owl Surveys or similar nighttime surveys, with alternating day/night schedules
• Experience driving 4x4 trucks and or UTVs on paved and unpaved roads
• Current CPR First Aid Certification or Wilderness First Aid (WFA)
• Enrolled or Completed a B.S. in Biological Sciences or natural resource-related fields; wildlife biology, botany, fisheries, hydrology, or natural resource management.