The Santa Ana Watershed Association (SAWA) is now hiring one permanent Field Biologist for the Biological Monitoring Program of the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) for Western Riverside County. The Biological Monitoring Program is responsible for monitoring 146 Covered Species and associated habitats as outlined in the MSHCP. This is a full-time position with a Monday through Friday work schedule.

The Field Biologist conducts field work (80%) and associated office tasks, including data entering and checking (20%). Job duties include field data collection and data entry for bird, mammal, reptile, amphibian, invertebrate, and plant species that are Covered under the MSHCP on conserved lands.

Duties

• Conduct biological surveys for Covered wildlife, rare plant species and native vegetation communities.
• Prepare maps using ArcGIS and Google Earth; prepare survey station waypoints for upload to GPS units.
• Collect field data in the prescribed manner, following established protocols.
• Digitize data using an established Microsoft Access database, and perform quality assurance checks on entered data.
• Assist with report preparation.
• Attend meetings and training as appropriate.
• Complete assigned tasks with a minimum of direct supervision in a timely fashion.
• Expected to operate 4WD vehicles, digital equipment and GPS units, and be capable of carrying a 25–30 pound backpack.
• May conduct the following activities, with support of other lead staff: design and oversee short-term field survey efforts including protocol writing, training of inexperienced staff, and management of day-to-day field survey logistics; conduct and interpret statistical analysis of survey data; write survey summaries or reports.

Basic Requirements

• Two years of experience conducting biological surveys, preferably for more than one taxonomic group.
• Experience conducting surveys for, and handling rare, sensitive, and federally- or state-listed wildlife or plants. Avian survey experience is particularly desirable.
• Ability to identify targeted and co-occurring species in western Riverside County. Proficiency at visual and aural identification of bird species occurring in southern California is particularly desirable.
• Knowledge of standard survey methods for Covered species.
• Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office products and mapping programs including ArcGIS and Google Earth.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with a variety of groups and individuals.
• Ability to work cooperatively with others, and independently with little to no supervision.
• Ability to record ecological data clearly and accurately.
• Ability to work long days and occasional evening shifts.
• Ability to work under, and tolerate exposure to, variable environmental conditions (e.g., rough uneven terrain, aquatic environments, seasonally harsh temperatures, etc.).
• Must complete training for, and be willing to use, Wilderness First Aid and CPR.
• Possession of a valid U.S. Driver’s License and U.S. citizenship or the ability to work legally in the U.S. (Declaration of Permission to Work form required).

Education

Successful completion of a full four year course of study at an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor’s degree that included a major field of study in ecology, biology, botany, wildlife management, or other closely related field.

Supervision:

The Field Biologist is a full-time hourly position that works under the direct supervision of the Biologist Supervisor.

Salary and Benefits

Salary: $19.61 – $25.10 per hour. Benefits include an S-125 medical plan with a $700 monthly stipend; a retirement plan with 6% employer contribution; monthly cellphone stipend; and paid leave following a six month probationary period.