Marbled Murrelet Surveyors

Come join the Turnstone Environmental team, and spend your summer hiking throughout Oregon’s Coast Range, surveying for the endangered marbled murrelet!

Turnstone is currently seeking to fill multiple Marbled Murrelet surveyor positions throughout Oregon. These are full-time, temporary-seasonal positions.

Location

We typically have field crews based in the beautiful Oregon towns of Astoria, Corvallis, Forest Grove, McMinnville, Tillamook, and potentially southern Oregon.

Salary Range & INCENTIVES

$2650 -$3535/ month (equivalent to $15.30-$20.40 hourly)

Reimbursement for work use of personal field capable vehicle, if desired

Season Completion Bonus!

Field housing (depending on location)

Salary range is dependent upon project and applicant experience.

Dates of Employment

Mid-April 2024 to late-July/Early August 2024 (possibility of extension).

Due to protocol requirements, mission critical work periods include April 22-26, June 27-28, and July 1-21; work schedule can be more flexible during other parts of the field season—please inquire during interview. Some weekend work may be necessary.

To Apply

To apply, please complete the application below on this page. EMAILED APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Application review and interviews to begin immediately and will continue until positions are filled.

Job Duties
  • Conduct marbled murrelet surveys following an established protocol
  • Work independently in the early morning hours (including pre-dawn) in the forest
  • Use GPS and basic navigational tools to locate and set up survey stations
  • Record, transcribe and submit accurate survey data and other administrative paperwork
  • Communicate clearly with crew leader and project manager

All surveyors will be provided with extensive training prior to starting surveys. This work involves a lot of solo driving, hiking through the woods in the dark along pre-determined routes (no trails!), and enjoying regular periods of inclement weather!

Typically, housing is provided for our field crews. Occasional camping is often preferred and may be necessary at times. A field vehicle will be provided unless the employee chooses to use a personal vehicle for reimbursement.

There may also be opportunities before, after, or during the field season to work on a variety of other interesting and collaborative field projects for the right candidates.

Interviews are currently underway and will continue until all positions are filled. Once positions are filled, this application will remain as an open continuous announcement for applicants interested in any future openings that may occur with increased workloads and/or personnel changes.

Desired Qualifications

Applicants should have or be working towards a B.S. degree in wildlife biology (or a closely related field).  Previous field experience is preferred, but not required.   Additional preferred qualifications include:

  • A strong work ethic, integrity, and accuracy in adhering to scientific protocols and in recording data
  • A strong work ethic, and desire to learn new protocols and explore the Oregon Coast
  • The ability to tackle the rigors of field work, feel comfortable hiking alone each day in strenuous terrain, and willingness to spend long hours in the field and work odd hours, including very early morning.
  • Knowledge of navigating with a compass, GPS and topographic map
  • Working knowledge of western bird identification (or willingness to learn)
  • Flexible, detail-oriented, resourceful, and comfortable working independently while also being part of a larger team
  • A valid state-issued driver’s license with clean driving record and the ability to navigate forest roads of variable condition and operate a 4WD vehicle
  • Applicants must have normal vision and hearing, must submit hearing test results prior to starting work
  • A general appreciation of the natural wonders of the Oregon coast and a willingness to explore them.

Successful candidates will gain valuable experience in field ornithology, endangered species surveys, advanced field skills, and get a chance to see what a career in environmental consulting could look like, all while working closely with a diverse team of other motivated folks in the beautiful Pacific Northwest!

Turnstone is committed to building a diverse team where differences are valued and respected. Women, minorities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.

Job Location: Oregon

Apply for this position

This application is used for both Marbled Murrelet Crew Lead and Surveyor positions.

Biological and Other Relevant Experience

Please complete the sections below to provide information on your relevant background.

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Availability

Are you available for work from April 15 through August 5, including the critical work periods outlined in the job description?

Professional References

Please provide up to 3 references and associated contact information. "See resume" is not an acceptable response.