Fisheries Biological Aide

The Idaho Department of Fish & Game is hiring three temporary Fisheries Biological Aides for a summer field crew in Nampa, ID. Responsibilities include conducting snorkel surveys, working in rugged terrain, maintaining equipment, and camping in backcountry settings. Applicants must be 18+, able to carry heavy packs, and work outdoors in varying weather. Preferred qualifications include college coursework in fisheries or related fields and outdoor skills.
Job Title: Fisheries Biological Aide - Snorkel Crew

About the Position:

The Idaho Department of Fish & Game Nampa Fisheries Research office is seeking (3) temporary (non-benefitted) Fisheries Biological Aides to work as part of a summer field crew.

Primary Responsibilities:
• Working cooperatively as a member of 6-person snorkel crew
• Working and living (primitive camping) in a backcountry setting for 8 days at a time
• Working outdoors in variable weather conditions
• Hiking, backpacking, bushwhacking, and/or stream walking 5-15 miles per day in steep, rugged terrain
• Conducting snorkel surveys in swift, cold-water environments (moving upstream in a full-body neoprene wetsuit)
• Identifying, counting, and estimating length of juvenile and adult salmonids
• Recording field data on PVC arm cuff and paper datasheets
• Maintaining snorkel gear, field equipment, and fleet vehicles to optimal standards
• Assisting with daily camp chores, including set-up, take-down, cooking, cleaning, and managing personal belongings
• Abiding by State and Federal regulations/guidelines related to responsible backcountry camping (LNT, campfires, bear safety, etc.)
• Communicating with crew lead and supervisors regularly and in a timely manner
• Conducting snorkel and habitat surveys according to established agency protocol
• Ensuring safe and professional conduct while on duty

Qualifications:
• Applicants must be able to work in adverse conditions on rough, remote terrain, and carry a 60+ lb. pack for several miles, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:
• A minimum of one year of coursework at the college level in fisheries, biology or related field or the equivalent in applicable outdoor field training and experience is preferred.
• It is also desired that individuals have the following skills and outdoor experience: tent camping (primitive), wilderness backpacking, salmonid fish identification, navigating by GPS and topographical maps, operating 4x4 vehicles and ATV's, towing/backing trailers, and operating chainsaws.