Subscribe and keep up with the Sierra Nevada Alliance and receive updates about issues impacting the Sierra, what we’re doing to help, and how you can get involved. Subscribers will also receive an access code to unlock My Garden of a Thousand Bees.
Field Technician, Fish Recovery – California Trout
Walker, California
California Trout (CalTrout) is a recognized and effective 501(c)3 conservation organization, For over 50 years, CalTrout has championed initiatives focused on solving complex resource issues that balance the needs of fish, water and people. Our professional staff drives innovative, science-based solutions that work for the diverse interests of Californians, through projects implemented in our six regional offices, including two offices in the South Coast region, and one office in the Sierra Headwaters region.
Position Summary:
California Trout is seeking to hire a motivated Seasonal Field Technician (Fisheries) to join an exciting project in the Sierra Headwaters region. Do you have a passion for native trout, the eastern Sierra, camping and working outdoors? California Trout is looking to hire five Field Technicians for this coming season to assist with field-based fisheries work in the eastern Sierra on a Lahontan Cutthroat Trout recovery project. This is an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on, career-building experience in fish sampling methods, data collection, and applied fisheries management and restoration. These positions will require weeklong field work trips, and remote camping to conduct field work near the Walker Basin in Mono County. Field techs will be reimbursed for mileage, but will provide their own camping equipment, water, and food.
Project summary:
This is a seasonal position with fieldwork and a minor office work component. Fieldwork is expected to take place from mid–June through October, but this project may be extended due to weather conditions. Crews will be required to backpack and camp into remote locations while working up to 12-hour days during the 8-day hitches. This project will utilize dewatering and electrofishing techniques to remove non-native trout populations. Crews will be working long hours in variable conditions in the backcountry of the Eastern Sierra.
Field Work will Include:
- Backpacking and camping in remote locations;
- Extensive 4×4 driving on unmaintained roads;
- Navigating off-trail to project locations;
- Working in stream beds and on uneven ground;
- Moving and carrying equipment for long distances;
- Electrofishing in potential high to low flow conditions;
- Collecting data during instream work.
Minimum Qualifications:
We are looking for a field technician that is confident in the backcountry and is willing to work long hours for a meaningful project. Must have a valid driver’s license. Detail-oriented. Ability to work outdoors long (12-hr) days, while hiking and camping. Ability to wear waders and walk on rocky terrain. Lift and carry 25-40 lbs. for several miles. Ability to work in inclement weather (extreme heat, cold, rain, wind, etc.). Willing to learn new skills, be a team player. Ability to self-direct and manage timelines. Crew members ability to commit to the entire field season.
Desired Qualifications:
Ability to drive 4WD on rough mountain roads. Experience collecting data in the field. Experience using electro-fishing backpack. Knowledge of fish identification and biological sampling is preferred.
Diversity:
CalTrout strongly embraces diversity and inclusion principles throughout our organization. CalTrout recruits, employs, trains, compensates and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status.
How to apply:
Please submit the following in a pdf format to Marrina Nation (Project Manager): mnation@caltrout.org by 4/30/2023. For position information not found in the listing, you may contact the email listed above. In your email please use the subject line “LCT Recovery Application – Lastname” to make sure your application is saved.
- Letter of interest. In this letter, please describe your background, including any military and volunteer service; professional experience, recreational interests, or hobbies that help demonstrate your suitability for work in harsh and challenging conditions and your reasons for pursuing this opportunity.
- Resume, including all degrees, related coursework and related work experience.
- Names and contact information for three (3) references. Professional references who can attest to your work ethic and technical abilities should be prioritized due to the nature of the work.
Application review will continue until all positions are filled.
