Natural Resources Job Board

Basin Assessment Seasonal Technician

Coquille Watershed Assocation (Private) | https://www.coquillewatershed.org/

Details
Application Deadline:
05/21/2025
Published:
05/02/2025
Starting Date:
6/2/2025
Ending Date:
9/30/2025
Hours per Week:
30 - 35
Salary:
$17 to $21 per hour
Education Required:
High School Diploma
Experience Required:
none
Location:
Coquille, Oregon
Description
About the Coquille Watershed Association

The Coquille Watershed Association (CoqWA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was formed by a small group of local citizens who were concerned about the health of the watershed and its fish and wildlife resources. Since that humble beginning, CoqWA has established a restoration, monitoring, and educational programming that is valued and supported throughout the watershed. Our mission is to work collaboratively with landowners to develop and implement voluntary watershed restoration, enhancement, and engagement activities that promote healthy and resilient ecosystems and economies in the Coquille watershed. CoqWA is supported by a diverse volunteer Board of Directors representing landowners, business owners, and community members. The Board of Directors selects the members of the Executive Committee (a subset of the Board), which oversees the running of the Association. CoqWA is also advised local technical advisors housed in local, state, and federal natural resource agencies. The Board and technical advisors vet and approve each project initiated by the organization.

Here at CoqWA, we value our collaborative, supportive workplace culture that contributes to our success in accomplishing high value, high impact projects throughout the watershed. By applying to work with us you have the opportunity to join a small but mighty staff team working cohesively to enhance our organization and our watershed.


Position Summary

The CoqWA Basin Assessment Seasonal Technician will assist the Basin Assessment Crew Lead and CoqWA monitoring staff with aquatic/riparian habitat and road surveys in the Coquille watershed. Primary duties include stream surveys using Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Aquatic Habitat Inventory (AQI) protocols and road sediment surveys using the Geomorphic Road Analysis and Inventory Package (GRAIP) methods. Fieldwork will primarily take place outdoors under all weather conditions (cold, heat, rain, etc.) and in rugged, remote locations. Technicians may also assist with other monitoring and restoration tasks during the season, such as water quality sampling, riparian planting maintenance, or fish passage assessments. This position is at-will and is non-benefitted.

Principal Duties/Expectations:

  • Assist with conducting stream surveys following ODFW Aquatic Habitat Inventory (AQI) protocols (training will be provided).
  • Assist with road and stream crossing surveys using GRAIP methods to identify sediment sources and fish passage barriers (training will be provided).
  • Use GPS units, tablets, and field data sheets to collect accurate habitat and road condition data.
  • Maintain accurate field notes, records, and documentation.
  • Participate in limited GIS-based data review and organization.
  • Assist with other watershed tasks as needed during the season (e.g., water temperature monitoring, riparian maintenance, etc.).
  • Follow CoqWA safety protocols and represent CoqWA professionally when interacting with landowners and the public.
  • Work cooperatively as part of a small field team and under the direction of the Crew Lead and Program Coordinator.
  • Participate in regular field safety meetings to ensure a safe working environment.

Qualifications

Education
  • Preference will be given to applicants with a degree in natural resources, environmental sciences, fisheries, forestry, or a related field; however, applicants currently pursuing a degree in these areas will also be considered and are strongly encouraged to apply.
  • Relevant fieldwork experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

General Requirements
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn new skills are essential.
  • Able to perform strenuous outdoor work, including carrying up to 40 pounds, hiking multiple miles, working in and around streams, and tolerating varied weather conditions.
  • Comfortable working in and around moving water and rocky, slick terrain.
  • Basic navigation skills (field maps, GPS, digital apps)
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word and Excel)
  • Excellent attention to detail for data entry and field documentation.
  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, follow instructions, and communicate effectively.
  • Ability to make decisions independently in accordance with established policies and procedures.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
  • Willingness and ability to drive 4-wheel drive trucks on varying and rough terrain.

Application Instructions and Timeline

Submit application materials to jfacer@coquillewatershed.org with the subject line “[LASTNAME]_Basin Assessment Technician Application”

Required application materials
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Three references with contact information provided (professional references preferred)

Application Deadline is May 21, 2025 or until position is filled. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis as applications are received. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to be fully considered for the position.

Studies have shown that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), women, and other marginalized groups are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and qualifications for the role. CoqWA supports diversity and equity, and we encourage applications from all group.
Contact
Jeremy Facer
jfacer@coquillewatershed.org (preferred contact method)