Research and Recovery Field Biologist – Skagit River System Cooperative

Skagit River System Cooperative is hiring for the position of Research and Recovery Field Biologist

Job Description:

Provide support to SRSC and its staff in the collection of samples and data required in the implementation of salmonid long-term monitoring. This position is a TERM appointment dependent on need and continued funding. It is currently scheduled to conclude two years from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension contingent on continued funding.

• Lead field crews to sample fishes in the Skagit River Watershed, including Skagit Bay.
• Coordinate and collect biological, chemical, and physical habitat samples and/or data.
• Implement developed sampling protocols in the Skagit River Watershed and across the Whidbey Basin, which includes fyke trapping, beach seining, smolt trapping, electrofishing, and habitat assessments associated with catch.
• Deploy and maintain data loggers and conduct RTK surveys as necessary.
• Track supplies and personnel to complete assigned tasks.
• Purchase, organize, and maintain project equipment, following SRSC purchasing and inventory requirements.
• Perform assigned tasks that involve physical labor such as, but not limited to, site clearance, preparation, planting, carpentry, hauling, lifting, boat operation and hiking in remote backcountry situations.
• Record, compile, and maintain field records and notes, including logbooks, data sheets, and electronic data collection equipment.
• Data entry and QA/QC.
• Assist in the preparation of technical reports, including data analysis and writing.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities that may be assigned by supervisor, the Research and Recovery Director, Program Directors, and/or the SRSC Board.

Education. The position requires an associate degree in a natural science field as a baseline qualification. Candidates with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in fisheries, wildlife science, biology, or a closely related discipline are strongly preferred.

Experience. The position requires 3+ months of boat operation and handling experience and at least 1 year of experience implementing fisheries techniques or fish habitat surveys. Additional boat operation and handling experience, field experience, and experience leading field crews preferred.

• Valid Washington State Driver’s License and must be insurable for driving
• Ability to attain a Boater’s Safety Card within the first month of appointment
• Ability to comply with the Drug-Free Workplace Act
• Proficiency in the use of computers, including Microsoft Office products.
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Accurate record-keeping ability
• Capability to operate sharp tools and power equipment safely
• Sensitivity to Native American culture, customs, and traditions
• Ability to
  • carry at least 40 lbs. of equipment over uneven terrain for up to 5 miles in a day
  • work in swift water conditions of rivers and tidal habitats
  • safely lift, move, and handle field gear
  • perform tasks that may require bending, kneeling, climbing, or reaching
  • walk, navigate, and board boats in muddy estuarine environments
  • work weekends and evenings depending on sampling needs
  • work in harsh environments under adverse weather conditions
• Within the first 3 months, ability to
  • learn internal databases
  • learn ArcGIS software to digitize spatial data
  • identify juvenile salmonids and other freshwater and estuarine species