Seasonal Biological Technician

Cramer Fish Sciences is seeking Seasonal Biological Technicians to join our Portland-based team in support of fisheries research and conservation-focused projects. This role provides hands-on experience through a combination of field surveys, habitat assessments, biological sampling and data management.

While the home base for this position is Portland, Oregon, most work will be conducted in Washington State, and this role is primarily field based. Technicians should expect to spend the majority of their time conducting surveys and supporting field operations in remote and variable outdoor environments.

This is a seasonal position anticipated to run from March through August, with exact start and end dates dependent on project needs. Work schedules will vary based on field conditions and operational requirements.

If you have a background in biology, ecology, or natural resources and a passion for fisheries conservation, we encourage you to apply.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support fisheries and habitat research by collecting, organizing, and helping ensure the quality of biological and environmental data
• Identify and observe aquatic and riparian species in a variety of field settings
• Help safely handle fish during capture and release activities, following best practices to support fish health and established guidelines
• Participate in field surveys, which will primarily include electrofishing and habitat assessments
• Take measurements and document field observations and specimens accurately and consistently
• Work closely with supervisors and teammates to meet project goals, timelines, and safety expectations
• Help maintain a safe, organized field environment by following company safety procedures
• Assist with routine care and upkeep of sampling equipment and vehicles, including cleaning and basic maintenance
• Interact professionally and respectfully with landowners, stakeholders, and other user groups in both office and field settings
• Pitch in on additional tasks as needed to support the team and project success

education / MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s of Science degree in fisheries, wildlife management, natural resource science, environmental science, or related field AND a minimum of 1 year of related and pertinent experience.
• Willingness to regularly travel for up to 8 days at a time (most commonly 4 days) to support field projects, primarily in Washington State
• Ability to work independently and as part of a field team in remote settings
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate company vehicles in varied terrain and weather conditions

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience conducting stream habitat surveys, such as USFS Level II surveys, longitudinal profile surveys, or similar methodologies
• Prior experience with fisheries field sampling (e.g., electrofishing), biological data collection, or habitat assessment projects

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to work long hours in diverse outdoor conditions, such as forests, rivers, streams, and lakes, often in remote locations. This includes working in inclement weather conditions at times
• Ability to climb, jump, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and crawl over uneven surfaces, rocky surfaces, logs, and other natural obstacles
• Ability to effectively and safely drive in inclement weather, including hot, cold, rainy, foggy, or smoky conditions
• Ability to operate non-motorized vessels, such as rafts and kayaks, in a variety of aquatic environments to support fieldwork
• Ability to perform physical tasks including lifting up to 50 lbs. and performing fieldwork in uneven terrain or cold water
• Ability to be flexible with work hours, including weekends and evenings, and travel to remote areas
• Ability to perform computerized data management in an office environment

SALARY (DEPENDENT ON EXPERIENCE)

$20.00 – $23.00/hour. Final compensation at Cramer Fish Sciences (CFS) is determined based on internal equity, relevant qualifications and experience and market considerations.

BENEFITS

Paid sick leave with accruals starting on first day of employment and voluntary 401(k) eligibility for company plan.

ABOUT CRAMER FISH SCIENCES

We are a fisheries research consulting firm operating throughout the Pacific States and Idaho. As a growing, employee-owned company, our mission is to rigorously apply the scientific method to provide innovative, scientifically robust solutions to a variety of fisheries and environmental challenges. We do this through effective and unbiased data collection, insightful analysis, and clear communication, including publishing results in scientific journals.

CFS is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.