Field Technician

California Trout • Mammoth Lakes, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

California Trout (CalTrout) is a recognized and effective 501(c)3 conservation organization, with over 50 years of experience championing initiatives focused on solving complex resource issues that balance the needs of fish, water, and people. Their professional staff drives innovative, science-based solutions through projects implemented in six regional offices. California Trout is seeking to hire a motivated Seasonal Field Technician (Fisheries) to join an exciting Lahontan Cutthroat Trout recovery project in the Sierra Headwaters region. This role is for individuals passionate about native trout, the eastern Sierra, camping, and working outdoors. Four additional Field Technicians are being sought to assist with field-based fisheries work. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on, career-building experience in fish sampling methods, data collection, and applied fisheries management and restoration. The role requires weeklong field work trips and remote camping near the Walker Basin in Mono County, with technicians providing their own camping equipment, water, and food. This seasonal position involves fieldwork from early June through October, with potential extensions due to weather. Crews will backpack and camp into remote locations, working up to 12-hour days during 8-day hitches. The project utilizes dewatering and electrofishing techniques to remove and euthanize non-native trout populations, requiring long hours in variable conditions in the backcountry of the Eastern Sierra.

Requirements

• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Detail-oriented
• Ability to work outdoors long (12-hr) days, while hiking and camping
• Ability to wear waders and walk on rocky terrain
• Lift and backpack 45-70 lbs. for several miles
• Ability to work in inclement weather (extreme heat, cold, rain, wind, etc.)
• Willing to learn new skills, work with a small group, and be a team player
• Ability to self-direct and manage timelines
• Ability to commit to the entire field season

Nice To Haves

• Ability to drive 4WD on rough mountain roads
• Experience collecting data in the field
• Experience using electro-fishing backpack
• Knowledge of fish identification, and biological sampling preferred

Responsibilities

• Backpacking and camping in remote locations
• Extensive 4x4 driving on unmaintained roads
• Navigating off-trail to project locations
• Working in stream beds and on uneven ground
• Moving and carrying equipment for long distances
• Electrofishing in potential high to low flow conditions
• Collecting data during instream work

Benefits

• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience
• Health benefits (medical, dental, and vision)
• Generous holidays

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees