WIldlife biologist – Amphibian and Mollusk
Turnstone is currently hiring 3-4 seasonal field biologists to conduct surveys for an amphibian and terrestrial mollusk survey project. These surveys follow exacting protocols, and surveyors will be required to work independently in backcountry areas. A field vehicle will be provided. Housing will be provided near the amphibian/mollusk project area. The position involves hiking through forest terrain and enduring regular periods of inclement weather. This is an excellent opportunity to work on an interesting and collaborative field project related to special-status wildlife species!
Location
Housing in White Salmon, WA. Survey area in the Washington Cascades near Willard, WA.
Salary Range & INCENTIVES
$2,900 – $3,600 Monthly ($17.04 – $22.50 Hourly), plus housing
Salary range is dependent upon project and applicant experience.
May also be eligible for:
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- Overtime/Bonus Days
Dates of Employment
October-November 2025
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.
Essential Duties
- Conduct terrestrial habitat searches for target species; identify, record, and map locations of detections
- Daytime off-trail hiking in steep terrain and navigating forest roads
- Record clear, concise, and accurate field data
- Communicate clearly with crew leader and project manager
Positions start in early October, the exact date is dependent upon environmental conditions. Amphibian & mollusk surveys will continue until weather conditions are no longer conducive for surveys, assumed to be sometime in late November.
If you are interested to be considered as a crew leader, please indicate your interest in your cover letter and clearly identify your relevant leadership experience and skills in your application materials.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants should have either or both a completed B.S. degree in wildlife biology or a closely-related field, and preferably at least one season of wildlife field survey experience. Amphibian, terrestrial mollusk, and/or avian survey experience are strongly desired but not required if the applicant has strong field skills, and basic identification skills. Crew leaders should have previous supervisory experience in a field crew setting and/or previous experience with amphibians and/or terrestrial mollusks. Self-motivation, enthusiasm for the research goals and learning and/or improving field identification skills, and an ability to tackle the rigors of field work are a must. A good attitude towards shared field housing situations is necessary. An ideal candidate will possess all of the following characteristics:
- A consistent track record of working in a safe and efficient manner.
- Excellent field skills: orienteering, GPS, map-reading skills, hiking alone in backcountry terrain in the dark and/or inclement weather.
- The ability and willingness to spend long hours in the field and work odd hours, including early morning.
- Integrity, quality, and accuracy in adhering to scientific protocols.
- The ability to record accurate, legible and reliable field data.
- Flexible, detail-oriented, resourceful, and comfortable working independently or as part of a team.
- A valid driver’s license and the ability to navigate forest roads and operate 4WD vehicles.
Successful candidates will gain valuable experience in field herpetology, malacology, 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!
