Turnstone Environmental Consultants is hiring seasonal Wildlife Biologists to support marbled murrelet survey projects across Oregon for the 2026 field season. At Turnstone, we pride ourselves on our commitment and contribution to conserving and managing natural resources through innovative and sustainable solutions. As a Wildlife Biologist on one of our owl projects, you will play a crucial role in conducting field studies, collecting ecological data, and contributing to the development of strategies to enhance wildlife conservation and management efforts. Join us in our mission to make a positive impact on our ecosystems and communities.

For nearly 30 years, Turnstone has hired seasonal wildlife biologists in order to successfully complete a wide variety of projects. Seasonal staff are not an afterthought at Turnstone; they are central to collecting high quality information that supports real land management decisions. Our success is due in large part to our fantastic seasonal staff. From field coordinators, to crew leaders, to biologists and technicians, it takes a range of talents and skill sets to make the magic happen.

A top priority for Turnstone is the quality of our team. The quality of survey results is directly affected by the caliber of our field crews; with the best work being performed by skilled field crews with extensive training and experience in wildlife surveying, orienteering and operating in a wide variety of terrain. Turnstone upholds this standard of excellence through clear protocols, experienced leadership, and robust logistical support, while cultivating an efficient and enjoyable work environment that brings many field staff back season after season.

Come join the Turnstone Environmental team, and spend your summer hiking throughout Oregon’s Coast Range, surveying for the endangered marbled murrelet!

Marbled Murrelet Surveyor

Turnstone is currently seeking to fill multiple Marbled Murrelet surveyor positions throughout Oregon. These are full-time, temporary-seasonal positions. These positions are well suited for early-career wildlife professionals who are motivated to build strong field skills, value accuracy and responsibility, and are comfortable working independently in forested terrain. 

Essential Duties

• Conduct marbled murrelet surveys following an established protocol
• Work independently during early morning hours, including pre-dawn, in coastal forests
• Use GPS, maps and basic navigational tools to locate and establish survey stations
• Record, transcribe and submit accurate survey data and other administrative paperwork
• Communicate clearly and professionally with crew leader, project managers, peers and landowners

Surveys are conducted on federal, state, and private forested lands. Exact work locations are project-dependent and distributed throughout western Oregon. Employment dates are approximate and may vary by project.

All surveyors will receive extensive training prior to starting surveys. A portion of the training will take place in the Redwoods in Northern California at the beginning of the survey season. This work involves significant forest driving, hiking off-trail in the pre-dawn hours along pre-determined routes, and working through regular periods of inclement weather.

Housing is provided at no cost for most positions and locations. Occasional camping near work areas may be necessary depending on location. A field vehicle is provided unless the employee elects to use a field capable personal vehicle for reimbursement.

Most positions begin mid-April, depending on environmental conditions and survey location. Some candidates may have the opportunity to begin in late March. Survey locations are distributed throughout Oregon, and some positions require significant daily travel, including extended drives to and from survey areas.

For well-qualified candidates, there may be opportunities to contribute to additional field projects involving special-status wildlife species, extending work later into the season.

Crew leader roles are limited. Applicants interested in consideration should clearly state their interest in their cover letter and describe relevant leadership experience and field oversight skills in their application materials.

Interviews are currently underway and will continue until all positions are filled. Once positions are filled, this application will remain as an open continuous announcement for applicants interested in any future openings that may occur with increased workloads and/or personnel changes.

Desired Qualifications

Applicants should have or be working towards a B.S. degree in wildlife biology or a closely related field.  Previous field experience is preferred, but not required.  

Additional preferred qualifications include:

• A strong work ethic, integrity, and accuracy in adhering to scientific protocols and in recording data
• Motivation to learn new survey methods and explore Oregon’s Coast Range
• Ability to meet the physical demands of fieldwork, including hiking alone in strenuous terrain and working long or irregular hours, including very early mornings
• Knowledge of navigating with a GPS, topographic map and a compass.
• Working knowledge of western bird identification (or willingness to learn)
• Flexible, detail-oriented, resourceful, and comfortable working independently while also being part of a larger team
• A valid state-issued driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and ability to operate a 4WD vehicle on forest roads of variable condition
• Applicants must have normal vision and hearing, must submit hearing screen results prior to starting work
• A general appreciation of the natural environment and a willingness to explore them!

Successful candidates will gain experience in endangered species surveys, field ornithology, and backcountry navigation while working alongside a diverse group of motivated field staff in the Pacific Northwest.

Location

Oregon (Coast Range)

Salary Range & Incentives

$2773 -$3813/ month (equivalent to $16-$22 hourly)

Salary is dependent upon project and applicant experience.

May also be eligible for:

• Field housing provided for most project locations
• Field vehicle provided or reimbursement for work use of a personal vehicle
• Season completion bonus!
• Opportunities to work on additional projects before or after the core field season

 Dates of Employment

Mid-April 2026 to late-July/Early August 2026 (possibility of extension).

Due to protocol requirements, mission critical work periods include April 12-16, June 29-30, and July 1-21; work schedule may be more flexible during other parts of the field season; applicants are encouraged to inquire during the interview process. Some weekend work may be required.