Fisheries Technician

California Trout Inc

California Trout Inc

Arcata, CA, USA
Posted on Jan 9, 2025

POSITION: Fisheries Research Technician

OFFICE LOCATION: Arcata, CA

FUNCTIONAL AREA: Conservation

SUPERVISOR: Darren Mierau

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

COMPENSATION: $25.00/hr

Position Overview: CalTrout seeks a qualified fisheries technician to assist with two vital programs on the South Fork Eel River: a state-of-the-art SONAR monitoring program for adult salmon and steelhead and the operation of a seasonal weir for managing invasive Sacramento Pikeminnow. This position requires a strong work ethic, flexibility to work in challenging conditions, and a passion for fisheries conservation.

Roles & Responsibilities

  1. SONAR Monitoring Program
    • Assist in reviewing SONAR video data to document fish passage.
    • Conduct walking surveys of salmon spawning grounds.
    • Perform job site visits during rising river levels (on-call availability required).
  2. Weir Operation and Invasive Species Management
    • Assist with installation, daily maintenance, and operation of a seasonal weir.
    • Process fish in upstream and downstream migrant traps.
    • Perform seining and electrofishing near the weir.
    • Conduct bi-weekly snorkel surveys above and below the weir.
    • Manage video monitoring equipment.
    • Process and handle pikeminnow captured at the weir.

Data Management

  • Enter and manage data associated with both the SONAR monitoring program and weir operation.

Requirements & Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, natural resource management, project management, or a related field.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work in inclement weather, day or night.
  • On-call availability during fieldwork periods, including weekdays, weekends, and during rising river levels.
  • Reliable transportation to the job site.
  • Housing at or near the field site will be provided during the weir operation.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project).
  • Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in data management and reporting.
  • Knowledge of environmental regulations and conservation practices is desirable.
  • Passion for environmental conservation and commitment to California Trout’s mission.

Benefits: California Trout offers competitive compensation commensurate with experience; health benefits (medical, dental, and vision), retirement plan with matching, generous holidays, PTO benefits, and sabbatical leave.

California Trout (CalTrout) is a highly recognized and effective 501(c)3 conservation organization headquartered in San Francisco. For over 50 years, CalTrout has championed a remarkable number of initiatives focused on solving complex resource issues that balance the needs of fish and people. CalTrout has six regionally based offices located in key geographies where wild fish influence local communities. Our professional staff drives innovative, science-based solutions that work for the diverse interests of fish, farms, commerce and the community. CalTrout is backed by a passionate Board of Directors, along with highly committed donors and a strong membership base.

Diversity: CalTrout does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics.

We’re passionate about creating an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity. Companies that are diverse in age, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, ethnicity, and perspective are proven to be better companies. More importantly, creating an environment where everyone, from any background, can do their best work is the right thing to do.