About the position
This recruitment will be used to fill three full-time Temporary Biological Science Research Technician 1 positions for the Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences at Oregon State University (OSU). This position will be located in Molalla, Oregon. The position will assist in scientific research in the northern Oregon Coastal Range. This work focuses on surveying for stream associated amphibians including Columbia torrent salamander (Rhyacotriton kezeri), southern torrent salamander (Rhyacotriton variegatus), coastal giant salamander (Dicamptodon tenebrosus), Cope's giant salamander (Dicamptodon copei) and coastal tailed frog (Ascaphus truei). Responsibilities include field work/surveying and data management throughout the 12-week summer season (June 9 - Aug. 29, 2025). Field surveys consist of daily sampling trips to sites located on private timberlands in the northern Coast Range of Oregon. Sites will be in managed forest stands below 3,000ft elevation and vary in forest stand age. Sampling will consist of manual searches for amphibians in headwater and low order streams, overturning objects such as rocks, woody debris, and searching under vegetative cover. This position requires working in uneven terrain and searching at ground level and in streams for extended periods, regardless of weather conditions. Field gear and housing is included. Each workweek on average will consist of four 10hr days (usually Monday-Thursday), including a mix of time in the field, data management, and equipment upkeep. Some days will require significant travel time to field sites.
Responsibilities
- Perform stream habitat surveys, data collection on habitat characteristics, and salamander handling, ID, and processing.
- Drive OSU motorpool vehicle to and from field sites.
- Work collaboratively with team members to ensure a safe and respectful work environment.
- Data entry and processing of data sheets from field surveys.
- Decontamination of boots and nets between sites.
- Drying of equipment upon return from the field each night.
- Repair of equipment that has been damaged during surveys.
Requirements
- Two years of college-level courses in Fisheries and Wildlife, Ecology, Biology, Zoology, or related field; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
- Strong commitment to safety and attention to detail.
- Ability to climb steep slopes, lift objects, and search at ground and water level for extended periods of time.
- Ability to drive 4×4 vehicle and safely navigate active logging roads and forest service roads.
- Commitment to working professionally and inclusively with people from all backgrounds as part of an ecological research team.
Nice-to-haves
- Interest in amphibian life history and habitat use.
- Live experience, education, or training that broadens capacity to impact underserved audiences.
