Job Postings

If you have job announcements you would like posted on this page, send them to jobs@tws-west.org. Job listings will be posted for 3 months unless a closing date is listed on the job announcement.

There is also a jobs page on the national TWS web site at careers.wildlife.org

(Date indicates when each announcement was posted to the web site.)

 

24 January, 2026: Carnivore Field Technicians, Sierra Nevada

The USFS is looking for wildlifers to join the Sierra Nevada Carnivore Monitoring Program field crew. Work includes 4-7 day camping trips to remote habitats to conduct camera surveys and track collection, looking for all carnivores, including fisher and marten.

Position: 2 Crew Leaders and 6 Crew Members

Season: April through September 2026

Pay: $21-22 for crew leaders and $19 for crew members

· Housing provided

· Camping per diem

· $200 gear stipend

· 4 days off per season

· WFA certification provided

Location: Shaver Lake, CA

Schedule: 10-hour days with either 3 or 6-day weekends

Gear: Some camping gear provided by project

We are seeking applicants interested in wildlife ecology and conservation who are in great physical condition and willing to endure remote camping, temperature extremes, high altitudes, rough terrain for hiking and driving, heavy packs, and plenty of bushwhacking. Experience backpacking, camping, and conducting wildlife surveys is desired. Ability to get along with crew members for prolonged periods in the backcountry is a must.

To Apply:

Applications accepted until February 4, 2026

Additional details and online applications: Crew Leads and Crew Members

In addition to completing the online application, please send a cover letter, resume, and three references in one pdf document to:

OSUCarnivoreEcologyLab@oregonstate.edu

Please type: ‘Carnivore Monitoring Position’ in the Subject line of the email

For questions please contact: OSUCarnivoreEcologyLab@oregonstate.edu

24 January, 2026: Amphibian Field Technicians, Sonora CA and Sierra Nevada

We are seeking wildlife technicians to join the US Forest Service Sierra Nevada Amphibian Monitoring Program’s summer field team. Work includes 8-day backpacking trips to remote, high-elevation (5,000-12,000 ft) backcountry habitats to survey lakes, streams, and meadows for amphibians, focusing on Yosemite toads and mountain yellow-legged frogs.

We are seeking applicants interested in herpetology who are in good physical condition and willing to endure high altitudes, temperature extremes, rough terrain, long hikes, heavy backpacks, and the occasional mosquito (ok, maybe thousands). Experience backpacking and conducting amphibian surveys is desired. Ability to get along with crew members for prolonged periods in the backcountry is a must.

Job Details:

Employer:   Institute for Natural Resources, Oregon State University

Location:     Field work is throughout the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range of California.

Office location is Sonora, California.

Compensation: $18.06-$26.20/hour plus per diem for each field day.

Work Schedule: 8 consecutive 10-hr days, with 6-day weekends

Gear: Project will supply much, but not all, camping gear

Housing: Likely available with cost TBD

Application Open Dates:  1/21/26 – 2/4/26

Eligibility:  Valid US driver’s license required and two years of college-level courses in biology, ecology, environmental sciences, natural resources, or a similar subject; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience. The Assistant Field Coordinator and Crew Leader positions require in addition to the above, one year of technician-level experience.

To Apply:

Positions:  Eight positions across three job classifications are available. Apply to each position you are interested in (can be more than one).

          Assistant Field Coordinator (Biological Sciences Research Technician 2): One position available April through September 2026 and will support the project Field Coordinator to prepare for and clean up after the field season in addition to serving as a crew leader for summer field work. Additional position detail and application link:  https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/postings/176341

          Crew Leaders (Biological Sciences Research Technician 2): Three positions available June through mid-September 2026 and will lead crews of two in collecting field data. Additional position detail and application link:  https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/postings/176344

          Crew Members (Biological Sciences Research Technician 1): Four positions available June through mid-September 2026 and will support crew leaders in the collection of field data. Additional position detail and application link: https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/postings/176340

IMPORTANT: In addition to completing the online application, please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to: Cathy Brown, cathy.brown@usda.gov.

Please type: ‘Sierra Amphibian Job’ in the Subject line of the email.

24 January, 2026: Mammalogist I, Monterey Bay Aquarium

Link to Posting

24 January, 2026: Senior Water Resources Specialist, Valley Water, San Jose

 
Salary: $163,550.40 – $209,331.20 Annually
 
Job Type: Full-Time
 
Job Number: 01956-E
 
Location: CA, CA
 
Department: Watersheds Stewardship and Planning
 
Closing: 1/28/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
 
Description
 
Valley Water is searching for top-tier candidates to fill this exciting opportunity. Internal candidates will get first consideration.
 
Overview:
 
Are you interested in providing leadership and fostering collaboration in water resources strategies that bridge ecology and infrastructure? Learn more in the posting below.
 
The Senior Water Resources Specialist within the Water Utility Planning and Fish and Aquatic Habitat Collaborative Effort (FAHCE) Support Unit will be a key driver in implementing the FAHCE program. This is a leadership position that will play a role in developing and executing integrated environmental strategies that protect and restore watersheds, ensure regulatory compliance, and enhance the long-term sustainability of Valley Water’s local water supply.
 
This role will provide senior-level execution of the FAHCE commitments, such as developing non-flow measures, annual reporting, project management, and , as well as supporting other environmental permitting and project management activities for other water utility projects.
Our Commitment: We are committed to building and sustaining a working environment where all individuals are respected and valued. We believe every member of our team brings unique perspectives that enhance our ability to serve the public effectively. By fostering a workplace with employees from the communities we serve, we broaden our collective understanding of the world around us and strengthen our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.About Valley Water:Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San Jose, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.
 
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
 
• Lead implementation for the FAHCE Program, ensuring regulatory and programmatic requirements are met.
• Prepare and complete annual reports, manage program budgets, and administer related contracts.
• Coordinate and lead meetings with external partners and interested parties.
• Develop and present Board and committee items, including staff reports and support materials.
• Plan and develop habitat restoration projects aligned with program and regulatory objectives.
• Prepare permitting documentation to support water rights compliance.
• Obtain and update Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreements (LSAAs) for Valley Water dams and diversions.
• Provide permitting and environmental review support for Water Utility projects (e.g., pipelines, canals, and treatment plants) as needed.
• Respond to emerging environmental and operational challenges, including efforts to protect water infrastructure from invasive mussels.
 
Ideal Candidate’s Background Includes:
 
Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.
 
Ideal Experience:
 
• Six (6) years of professional-level experience within the fields of environmental/natural resources permitting, habitat restoration, water supply planning, fisheries, ecology, and/or watershed management.
• Experience working with State and Federal agencies negotiating permits and ensuring permit compliance.
• Experience in preparing compliance reports.
• Experience in project management.
 
Ideal Skills and Abilities:
 
• Work collaboratively and develop common understandings through effective communication
• Improve and streamline environmental review and permitting processes
• Represent Valley Water and engage with environmental regulators, interested parties, and the public
• Work with different subject matter experts and across all levels of staff in the organization.
• Strong organizational skills with strategic and analytical thinking.
• Principles and practices of project/program budgeting, cost estimation, funding, project/program management, and contract administration.
• Understanding of applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, and ordinances, and how they apply to water utility operations
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, and other written materials.
• Analyze, interpret, summarize, and present technical information and data in an effective manner.
 
Ideal Knowledge:
 
• Watershed management, aquatic ecology, and principles of habitat restoration
• State and Federal regulatory laws, regulations, and natural resource permitting
• Familiarity with Valley Water’s water supply infrastructure
 
Ideal Training and Education:
 
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in water resources management, biology, natural resources management, aquatic ecology, fisheries management, geology, physical sciences, earth sciences, or a related field.
 
Required License or Certificate
 
 
Utility Planning and FAHCE Support Unit (Position Code 692)
Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date.
 
This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 40% remote and 60% onsite.
 
Selection Process
 
(1) The selection process may include one or more of the following: application review, application assessment, performance exercise, written exercise and/or interview.
(2) The Employment Application, Qualifying Information Questions and/or Supplemental Questions will be evaluated based on the ideal candidate criteria listed above. Resumes are highly recommended.
 
NOTE: Position and start date is subject to availability of funds. Valley Water retains the right to repost this position as deemed necessary.
Consideration may be given to existing applicant pools within the same classification.
Valley Water’s Equal Opportunity Non-Discrimination Policy is available for review upon request.
 
Valley Water will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities. Please advise Human Resources in advance of any special needs by calling 408-630-2260.
 
Please be aware that once submitted all application materials become the property of Valley Water and will not be returned. Human Resources staff are not authorized to make copies of application materials for applicants.
 
To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/6854524

20 January, 2026: Field Biologist, Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan, Western Riverside County

Company Profile

The Santa Ana Watershed Association (SAWA) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration and enhancement of the natural resources in the Santa Ana River watershed located in Southern California. SAWA collaborates with many local and regional stakeholders and resource agencies to affect large-scale, science-based habitat restoration, biological monitoring and endangered species recovery. The Biological Monitoring Program (BMP) of the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) for Western Riverside County is responsible for monitoring 146 covered species and associated habitats as outlined in the MSHCP. At this time, we are pleased to announce an opening for MSHCP Field Biologist. This is a full-time non-exempt position with a Monday through Friday work schedule. Benefits include an S-125 medical plan with a $700 monthly stipend; a retirement plan with 6% employer contribution; and paid leave following a 90 day probationary period. The MSHCP BMP department fosters a talented, highly skilled and energized workforce. SAWA is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity in the workplace.

Job Description

The Field Biologist for the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Biological Monitoring Program will work in the field 80% of the time surveying and collecting data for the 146 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and plants covered by the MSHCP. The other 20% of the time will be spent in the office entering and checking data for the species surveyed, organizing/cleaning equipment in the warehouse, inspecting work vehicles, and attending occasional meetings and training. The Field Biologist will work both independently and with a team of biologists to collect data in the field across a wide range of habitats and environmental conditions. Data collection for this position occurs year-round and spans a 1.2-million-acre area encompassing coastal sage scrub, desert scrub, chaparral, vernal pools, and montane forest ecosystems, and often requiring extensive daily driving. Field Biologists receive training on species identification from Taxa Leads at the start of each survey and will receive training and certification to survey for federally protected species as necessary.

Primary duties include:

  1. Conduct biological surveys for Covered wildlife, rare plant species and native vegetation communities.
  2. Collect data using tablets, Survey 123, or datasheets. Prepare maps using ArcGIS and Google Earth; prepare survey station waypoints for upload to GPS units.
  3. Collect field data in the prescribed manner, following established protocols.
  4. Digitize data using an established Microsoft Access database, and perform quality assurance checks on entered data.
  5. Assist with reports, posters, and presentation preparation.
  6. Attend meetings and training as assigned.
  7. Complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision in a timely fashion.
  8. Expected to operate 4WD vehicles, digital equipment, and GPS units,
  9. May conduct the following activities, with support of other lead staff: design and oversee short- term field survey efforts, including protocol writing, training of inexperienced staff, and management of day-to-day field survey logistics; conduct and interpret statistical analysis of survey data; write survey summaries or reports.

Basic Requirements:

  1. Two years of experience conducting biological surveys, preferably for more than one taxonomic
  2. Knowledge of southern California flora, and the ability to identify targeted and co-occurring species in western Riverside Experience using dichotomous keys, especially the Jepson Manual, is particularly desirable.
  3. Experience conducting surveys for, and handling rare, sensitive, and federally- or state-listed wildlife or
  4. Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office products and mapping programs, including ArcGIS and Google
  5. Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with a variety of groups and
  6. Ability to work cooperatively with others, and independently with little to no
  7. Ability to record ecological data clearly and
  8. Ability to work long days and occasional evening shifts
  9. Ability to work under, and tolerate exposure to, variable environmental conditions (e.g., rough uneven terrain, mud, aquatic environments, seasonally harsh temperatures, etc.), and be capable of carrying a 25 to 30-pound backpack.
  10. Must complete training for, and be willing to use, Wilderness First Aid and CPR.
  11. Possession of a valid U.S. Driver’s License and U.S. citizenship or the ability to work legally in the U.S. (Declaration of Permission to Work form required).

Education:

Successful completion of a full four-year course of study at an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s degree that included a major field of study in ecology, biology, botany, wildlife management, or other closely related field.

Supervision:

The Field Biologist is a full-time hourly position that works under the direct supervision of the Biologist Supervisor.

Compensation:

Position Salary Range: $25.79 – $33.01 (commensurate with experience)

Employment Requirements:

  • Valid state driver’s license with current proof of driving
  • Final candidate will be subject to a physical exam, drug screening test and background

To Apply:

E-mail (1) cover letter describing qualifications for the position and interest in SAWA (2) complete CV/resume, and (3) contact information (including phone numbers and e-mail addresses) of three references to: Jennette El Morsy at jennette@sawatershed.org. Please include “MSHCP Field Biologist – Your Name” in the subject line.

Application Deadline: Open until filled. First round of application review begins February 1, 2026

20 January, 2026: Biologist I (Seasonal), Santa Ana Watershed Association

Company Profile

The Santa Ana Watershed Association (SAWA) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization dedicated to the restoration and enhancement of natural resources in the Santa Ana River watershed located in Southern California. SAWA collaborates with many local and regional stakeholders and resource agencies to affect large-scale, science-based habitat restoration, biological monitoring and endangered species recovery. Within SAWA, the Wildlife and Habitat Management Services (WHMS) department is responsible for biological monitoring of the endangered Least Bell’s Vireo and other sensitive species throughout the watershed in support of SAWA’s habitat restoration efforts. The WHMS department fosters a talented, highly skilled and energized workforce. SAWA is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values diversity in the workplace.

Job Description

This full-time, seasonal position will provide an opportunity to make significant contributions to the recovery of endangered species and conservation of other wildlife throughout the watershed. It will require the incumbent to be a self-starter with excellent communication skills and a strong work ethic. The successful candidate will work both independently and with a team of biologists, under the supervision of the WHMS Manager. SAWA biologists may also routinely work with member agencies. This position is temporary and expected to run from mid-March through mid-July 2026. Note: no housing is provided for this position.

Primary Duties:

  • Conduct surveys for Least Bell’s Vireo in Riverside, San Bernardino, and Orange Counties, California.
  • Document other sensitive avian, mammalian, and herpetological species.
  • Perform biomonitoring in support of SAWA’s Habitat Restoration Services department, as needed.

Qualifications

Minimum Educational Requirements:

  • B.S. in Wildlife Biology, Zoology or closely related discipline.

Professional Skills Required:

  • Avian survey experience, with an emphasis on songbirds. Experience with Least Bell’s Vireo and knowledge of Southern California flora and fauna is preferred.
  • Attention to detail and accurate collection of biological data. Experience with electronic data collection (e.g. ArcGIS Field Maps, Survey123) is preferred.
  • Ability to follow protocols and instructions.
  • Ability to work in remote locations under variable environmental conditions (e.g., rough, uneven terrain, off-trail, seasonally harsh temperatures).

The Successful Candidate Will Demonstrate:

  • A dedication to excellence, integrity, and a sense of pride in their work.
  • Strong work ethic, flexibility, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude even in challenging conditions.
  • Interpersonal communication skills in order to foster teamwork and internal relationships
  • Ability to work independently with little to no supervision, as well as cooperatively with a team.

Salary Range (commensurate with experience):                                                              

  • Biologist I: $26.98 – $34.54/hour plus mileage reimbursed at the federal rate of $0.72/mile

Employment Requirements

  • Must own and operate a reliable vehicle. Final candidate must supply a valid state driver’s license with current proof of driving record.
  • Final candidate will be subject to a physical exam, drug test, and background check.

Application Deadline: February 13, 2026

To Apply:

E-mail the following information in a single PDF to: Jennette El Morsy at jennette@sawatershed.org:

  • Cover letter describing your qualifications and interest in the position
  • CV/resume
  • Contact information (including phone numbers and e-mail addresses) of three references. Please include “WHMS Biologist – Your Name” in the subject line

19 January, 2026: Wildlife, Aquatics seasonal positions, El Dorado National Forest

The El Dorado National Forest seasonal American Conservation Experience (ACE) wildlife, aquatics, and archeology positions have been posted.

Links to job postings:

Wildlife

Aquatics

Archeology

2 January, 2026: Animal Welfare & Research Program Manager, Oakland Zoo

About the Position

The Animal Welfare & Research Program Manager is an hourly, nonexempt position which plays a vital role on our Animal Welfare and Research (AWR) department within the Animal Care, Conservation and Research (ACCR). This role focuses on managing daily operations, program execution, and performance across multiple lab and field teams.

The Program Manager serves as a coordinator and subject-matter specialist for all assigned programs, staff, and animals under AWR’s care. They develop and implement wildlife rescue, conservation recovery, welfare, and research activities. This position works closely with external partners including state and government agencies to coordinate short- to moderate-term program goals, and internally with staff, volunteers, and other Zoo departments.

Essential Job Duties

  • Leads and supervises the daily and routine needs of AWR rescue, conservation/recovery, welfare, and other research programs, daily husbandry and care of the ex situ wildlife, staff and volunteers, and facilities within AWR, including the Biodiversity Center.
    • Plan, organize, prioritize, and manage:
      • research as directed by Director of AWR and in coordination with Sections in ACCR and Zoo departments, welfare and research partners, governmental agencies, universities, and students
      • multiple wildlife recovery programs onsite and in the field, developing and maintaining permitting, protocol, and regulatory compliance; biosecurity; lab and field safety; and coordinating scheduling, strategy, and logistics for collections, reintroductions, and other lab and field activities with state and federal agencies and partners
      • regional and national rescue animal placement in coordination with Wildlife Confiscations Network and state and federal agencies, including developing and managing case-related database(s), maintaining professional relationships with law enforcement, litigators, animal facilities, and other partners, and setting short- to moderate-term program goals with AZA-WCN
      • field programs, including coordination of staff and volunteer scheduling and performance, transportation, supplies and other resources, safety, and other logistics
  • Develop policy and protocol for new or emerging strategic opportunities in wildlife rescue and recovery, informing resource needs, logistics, and capacity
  • Maintain excellent records and inventories for the Biodiversity Building and all research, recovery and rescue programs. This includes budget and staff tracking, supply management, animal records, and permitting.
  • Facilitate maintenance, grounds, vehicle, and other work orders for the Biodiversity Center and associated program facilities and assets
  • Implement AWR/ACCR priorities as well as demonstrate the initiative and expertise to regularly find ways to make improvements in administrative processes, management, and small and large facilities projects
  • Serves as liaison between the Zoo and agencies, universities, and other AWR program partners to ensure permit, deliverables, and expectations are being met
  • Serves as a resource to AWR/ACCR, Zoo, and partners on all aspects of natural history, captive and recovery management, and welfare of the species under their care
  • Ancillary Job Duties

Animal Care, Conservation & Research Department

Manager: Year-Round, Full-Time

$32 – $37/hour

Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and A Family Zoo Membership.

30 December, 2025: Field Technicians, Monarch Joint Venture

The Monarch Joint Venture is hiring three pairs of field technicians (full-time, seasonal) to study monarch butterfly breeding and migratory habitat across California. Technicians will be split into teams of two among three regions: Northern California (5 months), Central California (9 months), Southern California (5 months). A full job description and link to apply is available here.

30 December, 2025:  Aquatic Technicians, Sequoia and Kings Canyon

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (SEKI) are seeking several full-time, temporary aquatic technicians for the 2026 summer field season. There are three separate announcements for these positions: for GS-04 Student Trainee Pathways positions; for GS-04/GS-05 positions; and for GS-06/GS-07 positions.
 
Mountain yellow-legged frog technician (up to 4 GS-4, 4 GS-5, 2 GS-6/7): Technicians will restore high elevation lake and stream ecosystems in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks to benefit native species, including endangered mountain yellow-legged frogs (Rana muscosa and Rana sierrae). The GS-04 and GS-05 positions will be stationed in Kings Canyon National Park with projected start dates of early- to mid-June. The GS-06 and/or GS-07 positions will be stationed at Sequoia National Park with projected start dates of mid-May.
  • GS-04 level: Duties are removing nonnative fish from lakes using gill nets and from streams using backpack electrofishers; setting, cleaning and repairing gill nets; conducting visual encounter surveys for fish, amphibians, and reptiles; collecting field data; following detailed protocols; recording environmental parameters; using topographic maps, compass, and/or global positioning systems (GPS) for navigation; providing an overview of the project to park visitors, and occasional assistance with research projects.
  • GS-05 level: Additionally, interacting with the public regarding sensitive amphibian, reptile, or fisheries management issues; discussing scientific information with peers and public; and training other technicians, interns, volunteers, and field observers.
  • GS-06 level: Additionally, as an assistant crew lead, managing logistics in preparation for summer fieldwork; providing orientation, training and mentoring for summer field crews; overseeing and conducting summer field operations; manipulating aquatic datasets; providing logistic and field support to scientific research studies; conducting electronic entry, quality assurance/quality control and summary reporting of field data, and organizing and maintaining field equipment and supplies.
  • GS-07 level: Additionally, as assistant crew lead, compiling drafts of Sierra Nevada aquatic wildlife information for data collection spreadsheets, reports, and correspondence; recording, managing, summarizing, and representing data collected from aquatic wildlife projects using computer programs; and presenting scientific and aquatic wildlife data effectively using charts, graphs, and maps.
 
Requirements common to all positions: Technicians working on projects located in the wilderness must have strong backpacking and wilderness camping skills including experience hiking or recreating at 10,000 ft (must include this detail in resume), the ability to hike safely across challenging on- and off-trail terrain and be comfortable in remote wilderness settings with limited human contact. Technicians must have experience in conducting amphibian, reptile, fisheries, or other wildlife surveys, and a strong commitment to conducting ecological restoration. Technicians must be able to work well in a small crew, be detail oriented, and able to work in cold or hot, wet, windy, buggy, and stormy conditions.
 
Interested applicants must apply through the USAJOBS website at the following job announcement numbers:
 
PW-1549-SR-26-12833285-DE for the GS-04 Pathways Student Trainee:
 
PW-1549-SR-26-12844393-DE for the GS-04 and GS-05 positions:
 
PW-1545-SR-26-12834698-DE for the GS-06 and GS-07 positions:
 
Announcements open on Monday, January 5, 2026 and will close on the day when application caps have been reached. To receive consideration, complete application packages should be submitted expediently. If a cap is not reached, that announcement will close at 11:59 PM (EST) on January 19, 2026.
 
For additional information about the positions, please contact the SEKI Aquatic Ecosystems program by e-mailing Kristie Stein at kristie_stein@nps.gov.

30 December, 2025: Forest Ecologist, WSP

Lead Forest Ecologist – WSP Careers

 

 

3 December, 2025: Biological Technician, Janelle Nolan & Associates Environmental Consulting, Diamond Springs, CA

Janelle Nolan & Associates Environmental Consulting is seeking Biological Technician(s) to assist with implementation of wildlife surveys in the eastern and western Sierra Nevada mountains and foothills of California.

Responsibilities would include, but are not limited to:

  • Assist in implementation of special-status amphibian, raptor, and/or other wildlife surveys, both reconnaissance and protocol-level, specific focus for this position will be on Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog, Yosemite toad, northwestern pond turtle, great grey owl, California spotted owl, and American goshawk surveys;
  • Assist in implementation of special-status botanical surveys and non-native invasive plant (NNIP) surveys;
  • Collect GPS coordinates for the location of special-status resources and NNIPs; and
  • Compile data and assist in development of technical reports.

Required qualifications:

  • Pursuing a career in botany, wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science;
  • At least 1-2 years of relevant field experience;
  • Strong data collection and critical thinking;
  • Working knowledge of environmental mapping and database applications (i.e., FieldMaps, Survey123);
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint;
  • Proficiency in GIS field data collection/mapping and solid backcountry navigational skills;
  • Must be physically fit and able to navigate rugged high-elevation forest conditions on foot, and be comfortable backcountry camping for multiple days; and
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

Preferred qualifications (not required):

  • An associate’s and/or bachelor’s degree in botany, wildlife biology, ecology, environmental sciences, or other relevant subject;
  • Wilderness First Aid Certified;
  • Experience with Sierra Nevada flora and fauna;
  • Previous experience leading field surveys and 4WD experience;
  • Wildlife survey experience including the following species: foothill and Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frogs, Yosemite toad, northwestern pond turtle, American goshawk, California spotted owl, great gray owl, bald eagle, fisher, marten; and
  • Section 10(a)(1)(a) or other special-status species research or collection permits a plus.

Compensation: Hourly wage will be determined commensurate with experience, but would range from $22-$26/hour, with overtime pay when applicable. Training, expense reimbursement, and survey-specific equipment will be provided. Work will be near full-time between April-August 2026.

Interested applicants should provide a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Noah Peters at noah@jna-consulting.com by February 15, 2026. Interviews and hiring will be conducted on a tight timeline for this position, so applicants will be evaluated as materials are received.