Scientific Aid - Santa Monica Mountains
Job Description and Duties
Under the supervision of a Senior Environmental Scientist Supervisor, the Fish and Wildlife Scientific Aid will assist the Region’s lead steelhead Environmental Scientist with implementation of the California Monitoring Plan (CMP) to monitor and research southern California steelhead rainbow trout. Incumbent will also maintain and repair field equipment and assist with administrative tasks. The primary geographical focus of this position will be in coastal streams of the Santa Monica Mountains.
Assist fisheries staff with fish surveys, steelhead population monitoring, and habitat assessment. Collect steelhead population data through use of DIDSON cameras, PIT Tagging, redd surveys, snorkel surveys, and electrofishing surveys. Assist in collecting and summarizing data on hydrology (e.g., stream flow, water levels, and quality) and stream habitat, and identifying potential relocation sites or opportunities for habitat enhancement to improve resilience using Department techniques and protocols.
Assist project staff conducing scientific analysis of population, habitat, and watershed data for southern California steelhead and resident trout populations. Aid in primary review of sonar footage, enter project data and participate in quality assurance/quality control procedures to ensure data accuracy. Assist in data synthesis and report writing.
Prepare and load equipment and supplies necessary for field surveys. Maintain and repair field equipment and assist with vehicle maintenance. Conduct periodic inventories of field supplies and equipment, and maintain equipment schedules, and complete utilization logs. Ensure all field gear has been decontaminated following all field events to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Communicate needed repairs and purchases with Region’s lead scientist.
Working Conditions -
Office will be located in Seal Beach, with majority of work in the field. Ability to conduct biological resource monitoring work in the field; travel throughout the state; and work at odd or irregular hours. Ability to use a computer and keyboard at least several hours a day, sitting most of the time, which may involve walking or standing for brief periods to access files, references, and other program materials. Attend in-person and virtual meetings and internal and external trainings. In addition to working with regional staff, interact with headquarters staff and members of the public via e-mail, telephone and through virtual meetings. Possession of valid CA driver’s license. Ability to drive for up to 8 hours. Ability to work outdoors for up to week-long trips in variable weather conditions, operate 4WD vehicles, wade in streams, and walk over uneven outdoor terrain carrying a 40 lb. backpack for up to 8 hours. Backpacking and remote camping may be required on occasion. Occasional overnight travel to reach some project locations may be required.
Minimum Requirements