Natural Resources Technician (Fisheries)

Avista

20h•$22 - $39•Onsite

About The Position

This position promotes a high level of environmental performance by implementing programs for related natural resource specialties. Applies experience, knowledge, and training to implement measures consistent with environmental policy under the direction of an Environmental Scientist (or Fisheries Biologist). Assists the Corporation by providing technical expertise and implementing the physical work associated with various disciplines. Disciplines include environmental and regulatory compliance, natural resource protection, mitigation, and enhancement, recreation and land use management, water quality, water rights, fisheries, aquatic weeds, vegetation management, wetlands, and/or permitting. The primary role for this position will be to assist Avista and Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks personnel with the implementation of natural resource programs related to fish abundance monitoring, recreational fisheries, and upstream and downstream fish passage. In addition, this role may be responsible for water quality monitoring, collecting and managing water temperature data, and mounting and aging fish scales and otoliths. Techniques used for the implementation of these programs include the operation of backpack and barge electrofishing, and a monorail crane that is used at the Cabinet Gorge Fish Passage Facility. Individuals will operate equipment at the project site used to isolate and transfer fish to a transport truck and will assist in the processing and tagging of various fish species. Other duties may include operating and checking tributary traps, boat or stream electrofishing, assisting with cleaning and maintenance at recreation sites or other field duties as assigned. Individuals may assist with compiling data using spreadsheets (Excel) and viewing underwater camera video to assess fish behavior. Successful candidates will gain hands on experience working with Bull Trout (ESA listed species), learn about upstream and downstream fish passage concerns, have the opportunity to work in fisheries across multiple states (in riverine, tributary, and lake environments), and be a part of the Bull Trout recovery effort. This position is located at the Avista Natural Resource Office in Noxon, Montana.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or GED equivalent required; a Bachelor’s degree from a regionally or national accredited college or university in a physical science or environmental science, or related degree is preferred.
Must be capable of conducting strenuous field work and willing to work long hours, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Requires valid driver’s license.
Proficient in using standard office computer software such as Microsoft Office Suite, email applications, and data entry.
Must be willing and capable of being trained in the safe and proper operation of equipment (including vehicles & boats) related to a particular field of specialization or assignments.
Demonstrated ability to follow instructions, work independently, communicate effectively, and meet deadlines.
Two (2) + years of experience in fisheries, parks and recreation, land use management, natural resource field or equivalent preferred.
Possess communication skills to deal effectively with peers and the public.
Ability to compose clear, concise, and accurate written communications through emails, basic reports and other business documents.
Requires minimum of three (3) years of progressive experience with a demonstrated knowledge of fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures specific to field of specialization.
Ability to navigate the internet for research and communication purposes.
Able to learn specialized systems within department/organization.
Proficiency in creating clear, concise, and well-structured technical documentation, including technical reports, user manuals, process guides, etc. Ability to translate complex technical information into easily understandable content for various audiences. A basic understanding of summary statistics and interpretation is preferred.
Must be willing and capable of training entry-level technicians in the safe and proper operation of equipment

Responsibilities

Assist Avista and Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks personnel with the implementation of natural resource programs related to fish abundance monitoring, recreational fisheries, and upstream and downstream fish passage.
Responsible for water quality monitoring, collecting and managing water temperature data, and mounting and aging fish scales and otoliths.
Operate equipment at the project site used to isolate and transfer fish to a transport truck and will assist in the processing and tagging of various fish species.
Operating and checking tributary traps, boat or stream electrofishing, assisting with cleaning and maintenance at recreation sites or other field duties as assigned.
Assist with compiling data using spreadsheets (Excel) and viewing underwater camera video to assess fish behavior.