Ecological Monitoring – Field Operations Specialist

Description: Trinity County Resource Conservation District is accepting applications for the position of Ecological Monitoring – Field Operations Specialist.  This position works closely under the supervision of the Program Manager, and may perform a variety of natural resources related tasks.  The Ecological Monitoring Field Operations Specialist is a full-time seasonal position and will work from April to September 2026. There is the potential for additional work following this timeframe, based on performance and program needs. 

The Ecological Monitoring Field Operations Specialist will be primarily leading Northern Spotted Owl surveys, in-stream water temperature monitoring, and spawning salmon surveys with additional multi-disciplinary opportunities.  This position requires a person who possesses good communication skills, can work and lead a field-going crew, and conduct fieldwork in a variety of environments and weather conditions. 

Responsibilities: This position is focused to Northern Spotted Owl Surveys, but will perform a variety of interdisciplinary monitoring tasks 

•  Lead field monitoring surveys, including coordinating logistics, following seasonal timelines, determining resource needs, overseeing field staff, and preparing resources for staff to complete work correctly and in an efficient manner. 
• Directly supervise seasonal Conservation Technicians in the Ecology program, including staff training and onboarding, assigning tasks and work plans, supervising field work, and conducting performance evaluations. 
• Serve as crew leader, including leading assigned teams and performing related field tasks. 
• Assist in the development of safety materials and training, lead safety talks, and ensure that program staff are following appropriate safety practices. 
• Ensure that all tools, equipment, and vehicles are maintained and used appropriately 
• Conduct Call Point and Activity Center Surveys for Northern Spotted Owls 
• Deployment of water quality monitoring probes 
• Conduct salmon spawning surveys by snorkeling 
• Conduct pollinator surveys for monarch butterflies and bumble bees (Integrated Monarch Monitoring Protocol and CA Bumblebee Atlas protocols) 
• Assess natural and manmade fish passage barriers 
• Record accurate field notes, daily work reports, data and photograph collections 
• Other related monitoring activities as funding becomes available. 

Qualifications: 

• Two or more years of combined education and professional experience in an environmental science, including but not limited to ecology, botany, forestry, biology, fisheries, environmental science, or related field. 
• One to three years of supervisory or leadership experience, ideally in a field setting. 
• Demonstrated proficiency with time and crew management, and conducting interdisciplinary protocols with various timelines, schedules, and data products 
• Understanding of basic ecological principles and knowledge of California species 
• Demonstrated proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office Suite. 
• Experience with GIS software, including map preparation and basic data management. 
• Excellent organizational, verbal, and written communication skills, including public speaking. 
• Ability to follow verbal or written protocols, communicate effectively, and independently solve problems 
• Ability to work independently or as a team to complete tasks, sometimes with minimal direct supervision 
• Ability to complete work safely in a backcountry setting with a crew of 2-4 people 
• Ability to hike upwards of 6 miles through rugged terrain, carrying up to 30 pounds 
• Ability to lift and/or move objects up to 50 pounds. 
• Possession of a valid California Driver’s license 

Learn more about the Trinity County Resource Conservation District and apply here.