Field Technicians (4) – Stream temperature and flow permanence

Trout Unlimited is a national organization with 300,000 members and supporters organized into over 400 chapters and councils nationwide.  These dedicated grassroots volunteers are matched by a respected staff of organizers, lawyers, policy experts, and scientists, who work out of more than 45 offices across the country.  Our mission is to conserve, protect, and restore North America’s cold-water fisheries and their watersheds.  

POSITION SUMMARY

This is a collaborative project between TU and the USGS. Paired interns will be responsible for the collection of field data for a study monitoring stream temperature and flow permanence in remote arid mountain streams of eastern California, northern Nevada, and southeast Oregon. Schedule requires flexibility and will depend on changing fieldwork needs. Field stints generally range between 4 and 8 days but work week averages 40 hours. Seasonal (approximately 1.5 months). Work will be done on public and private land. The position is field-based but anchored out of Reno, NV. 

Stipend is $2,900 per month.

Start Date: Aug 19, 2019               End Date: Estimated September 27, 2019

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Locate established sites by navigating backcountry terrain using GPS and topographic maps
• Download stream temperature data loggers
• Accurately record site attribute data
• Drive 4-wheel drive vehicles on remote, un-improved roads
• Hike off-trail in remote arid and mountainous watersheds carrying up to 40-pound packs
• Interact with private landowners
• Work with a team to complete survey protocol without direct supervision
• Dispersed camping (without water/toilet facilities) will be required

This is not an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities.

Notes: Field work will involve exposure to extreme temperature and weather conditions. Crews will work without direct supervision during extensive stays (usually 4-8 days) in remote locations. Field stints will include extended periods of backcountry camping. Field sites are in remote locations and access often requires long cross-country hikes through steep, brushy terrain. Biting and stinging insects are common, and snakes may be encountered.

While on duty, vehicle, fuel, and occasional necessary lodging (hotel) expenses are covered by Trout Unlimited. The incumbent will be responsible for their own lodging (at home-base) when not on duty. All field trips will start and end in Reno, NV.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 3 months of field experience and/or 3 years of college with courses related biology and/or aquatic sciences
• Wilderness first aid, backcountry work and camping experience strongly preferred
• Valid driver’s license required
• Ability to work with and support others in taxing work environment
• Professional demeaner when interacting with landowners, resource managers, and the interested public

HOW TO APPLY

To apply please compile a cover letter, resume and a list of 3 references with emails and phone numbers *all in one document (pdf, Word)* and email to Sabrina Beus at Sabrina.Beus@tu.org with “Flow permanence tech” in subject line.

No phone calls please.  Open until filled.

TU is an Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action Employer pursuant to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act & Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistant Act.

TU hires without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status or disability.