Title: Biological Science Assistant ( Native Fish Field Assistant)
Position Title:
Biological Science Assistant ( Native Fish Field Assistant)
Job Description:
Seasonal Fisheries Employment Opportunities!
Make a difference in Oregon’s Natural Resources!
Help the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fulfill its mission: To protect and enhance Oregon’s fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.
To learn more about the department and the work we do, view the following video at https://myodfw.com/about
Location & Duration:
Based out of La Grande, OR, with travel throughout the state, we have 3 full time, seasonal positions starting June 3, 2024 through September 20, 2024.
Please note: This recruitment will remain open until May 1, 2024 however we will begin reviewing applications at 8AM (PDT) on Monday, April 1, 2024. The recruitment may close at any time after that date.
The salary range for this position will be truncated as of April 1, 2024, which will impact the minimum salary for this classification. The new salary on April 1, 2024 will be $3,218 monthly.
What you will do:
The primary role of this position is to assist in implementing applied research and monitoring for the conservation of native inland fishes in Oregon. The primary focus will involve capturing and culling nonnative Brook Trout in the Upper South Fork Sprague River and documenting distribution and abundance of Bull Trout, Brook Trout, and other fishes in the Minam River watershed. General project activities include:
- Drive to remote sample sites.
- Hike on trails, off trails, and in streams (up to 25 km per day) carrying sampling equipment and personal camping gear (up to 23 kg).
- Locate sample sites using map, compass, and GPS.
- Sample up to 4 km of stream daily.
- Capture fish using various methods including backpack electrofishing and seine netting.
- Anesthetize fish, including State and Federally protected fishes, following supervisor-approved guidelines.
- Euthanize nonnative fishes using supervisor-approved guidelines.
- Weigh and measure fish with minimal handling.
- Collect tissue for genetic analysis. Collect scale and otolith samples for age assessment.
- Keep accurate records of all data.
- Conduct PIT tag surveys and tag fish with PIT tags.
- Camp at remote field sites for up to 8 days at a time.
- Maintain field equipment.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.
Working Conditions:
- Requires a flexible work schedule that varies in the number of hours worked on a daily basis, but not necessarily each day, or a work schedule in which the starting and stopping times vary on a daily basis, but not necessarily each day. This includes working at all hours and workdays in excess of eight hours. Work exceeding 40 hours per week requires prior approval by the supervisor. Position is eligible for overtime. May work weekends and long hours. Work may be conducted with limited supervision at times.
- Work in a two-person field crew, often in remote and challenging environments.
- Travel to study sites, camping in backcountry areas for up to 8 days at a time.
- Carry personal and group sampling gear using standard backpacking equipment.
- Conduct foot travel, on and off-trail, covering up to 25 km per day.
- Work in varied weather conditions, including cold, rain, snow, and high winds.
- Communicate effectively with ODFW, government agencies, private landowners, and the public.
- Work at altitudes up to about 2500 meters in high desert or alpine climates.
Requirements/Requested Skills:
Minimum qualifications are not established for this position; however, we are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills. Preference for interviews may be given to candidates with these skills and background:
- Requires a valid driver license and an acceptable driving record.
- Experience using backpack electrofishing gear.
- Experience conducting field work in remote settings including in designated wilderness.
- Experience with self-supported camping (i.e. backpacking) for multiple days at a time.
- Anyone who has or are in pursuit of a Fisheries or Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences.