ABOUT TROUT UNLIMITED

Trout Unlimited (TU) brings together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams so future generations can experience the joy of native and wild trout and salmon. We are a national organization with 350,000 members and supporters in more than 400 chapters and councils nationwide. Trout Unlimited’s Southern Appalachians Program works throughout the mountains in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee in essential data collection, project management, and on-ground conservation work.

POSITION SUMMARY

TU is seeking two individuals to serve as Stream Survey Technicians for the summer of 2023. Technicians will be primarily focused on collecting data on road-stream crossing structures and natural barriers on coldwater streams in western North Carolina to assist with model validation. Technicians will have additional opportunities and will have a chance to interact with professionals from federal agencies, state agencies and conservation non-profits.

This work will require traversing streams and difficult terrain in remote locations while carrying up to 50 lbs of gear, potentially during times of inclement weather. Overnight camping up to three nights in a row may be required during the season. It is typical for teams to work four 10-hour days, but the team will have some schedule flexibility.

These positions will be based out of Asheville or Brevard, NC. However, they will not have a physical office location. A work vehicle and fuel costs will be provided. Start and end dates are negotiable but ideally will be 15 May – 11 August 2023.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Identify and collect physical data on elevation drops in streambeds.
• Take measurements and location data on road-stream crossing structures using an established protocol.
• Ensure a high degree of accuracy in data collection and management.
• Maintain equipment and report maintenance needs to supervisor.
• Track and report expenditures in a timely manner.
• Work as a team with a high degree of coordination and communication.
• Operate in areas with no cellular service.
• Perform all duties with safety as top priority.

This is not an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with data collection and management.
• Ability to quickly acquire skills and learn new techniques.
• First Aid/CPR certification before start of employment.
• Willing to work long days in challenging environments.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability to pass background checks for employment.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team with varied skills, abilities, and perspectives.
• Ability to think creatively, keep an open mind, and take constructive criticism.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Working towards a degree in fisheries, wildlife, biology, ecology, or another related field.
• Wilderness First Aid/First Responder
• Can provide their own camping equipment.
• Knowledge of fish habitat and basic hydrology.
• A passion for native fishes and their watersheds.

To apply, please upload a cover letter, resume and 3 references using TU’s Paylocity application system.

Application review will begin immediately and will be open until candidates are selected.