About the Employer:

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs are stewards with a focus in restoration of natural habitats across Central and Eastern Oregon. A core focus of our work is the restoration of riparian ecosystems, supporting resilient watersheds that sustain fish, wildlife, and plants.

We prioritize the professional development of our employees. Staff are encouraged to expand their technical skill sets through hands-on experience, mentorship, and access to training opportunities in restoration ecology, native plant production, and natural resource management. Our goal is to build a knowledgeable, capable workforce that can carry forward long-term restoration and conservation efforts.

Position Overview:

This is a 6 month position. The Seasonal Fisheries Technician II is a Multi-role position supporting both native plant production and on-the-ground habitat restoration projects. This role blends nursery operations, field implementation, and ecological monitoring, providing a well-rounded experience in restoration work across the John Day River Basin.

Key Responsibilities:

Nursery Operations:

• Assist with care of native plant stock, including watering, weeding, fertilizing, and transplanting
• Perform trimming and pruning of shrubs and trees
• Maintain irrigation systems and troubleshoot minor issues
• Conduct weed control using hand-pulling and herbicide application
• Support grounds maintenance (mowing, edging, raking)
• Collect native seed and assist with propagation efforts
• Maintain nursery equipment (UTVs, mowers, string trimmers, water pumps)

Field Operations

• Work as part of a crew to implement restoration projects on Tribal conservation properties and across the John Day River Basin
• Conduct habitat enhancement activities, including planting, fencing, and site preparation
• Install and maintain spring developments
• Perform juniper felling and hand piling
• Carry out noxious weed control using herbicides and mechanical methods
• Build and repair fencing using a variety of techniques
• Operate and maintain equipment such as ATVs, skid steers, and backhoes (as qualified)

Fish & Habitat Monitoring

• Assist with fish monitoring efforts, including:
  • Maintenance and deployment of data loggers
  • Spawning (redd) surveys
  • Stream and riparian vegetation surveys
• Collect and record field data accurately to support restoration evaluation and reporting

Minimum Requirements:

• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including standing, kneeling, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs
• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Basic familiarity with hand tools and outdoor equipment (or willingness to learn)
• A fine attention to details
• Valid driver’s license preferred

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in native plant nurseries, landscaping, agriculture, or restoration work
• Knowledge of riparian systems, plant identification, or weed management
• Experience with herbicide application (or ability to obtain certification)
• Familiarity with fence construction and equipment operation

Work Environment:

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors, often in remote field settings. Tasks may occur during inclement weather, and some protective/weather gear will be provided depending on the assignment.

Why Join Us:

This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in both nursery production and large-scale ecological restoration while contributing to meaningful, landscape-level conservation work. Employees develop practical skills, ecological knowledge, and professional experience in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

Located in Prairie City, this role is surrounded by expansive federal forest lands, providing immediate access to exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities including hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping. The position is also in close proximity to the Strawberry Mountains, a premier destination known for its rugged beauty, alpine lakes, and extensive trail systems—making it an ideal setting for those who value both conservation work and outdoor living.