Sagebrush rangelands provide habitat for many species, contribute to the livelihoods of agricultural producers, and support rural communities. Over the past several decades, sagebrush rangelands have experienced significant degradation due to the spread of invasive annual grasses, juniper encroachment, drought, mismanagement, fragmentation, and wildfires. Greater sage-grouse, which rely upon intact sagebrush habitat, are facing range-wide population declines including populations within Baker County, Oregon. Through a Focused Investment Partnership (FIP) grant awarded through the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB), the Baker Sage-grouse Local Implementation Team (LIT), made up of local, state, and federal agencies, implements numerous restoration projects to improve sagebrush habitat with the hopes to stabilize and increase local sage-grouse populations.

Tri-County Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA), a Baker LIT core partner, is recruiting one seasonal, full-time (40 hr/wk) biological science technician to conduct pre and post restoration project habitat surveys across Baker County, Oregon. Plots are located primarily on private lands and are accessed either by foot or ATV. Terrain varies from easy to challenging and the technician must be able to stand and walk for extended periods of time while carrying personal items and field equipment. Field work occurs under a variety of conditions (e.g., rain, heat, high winds, etc.) and crew members may encounter ticks and rattlesnakes. Technician should expect to navigate off-trail to each plot and collect data using established procedures. Surveys are rapid ocular assessments and include the following methods: photos, species inventory, percent cover, erosion classification, and ecostate and trend. Training will be provided for all survey methods. While agency staff will assist initially and as needed, the technician will be expected to work independently and develop a work schedule that will ensure that tasks are completed. The technician will directly work with the project Crew Lead but will have regular and ongoing support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Tri-County CWMA. At times, crew members will have access to a company vehicle but may also need to use their own (AWD/4×4 capable, reimbursed at a rate of $0.67/mile) and should be comfortable driving/navigating backcountry roads. At this time, housing is not provided with this position, but the candidate can work with Baker LIT partners for local housing opportunities. Many monitoring sites throughout the county are remote and require long trips to and from work sites. Due to the distance, some camping may be required.