Nwca Field Technicians

ERG is hiring two seasonal field technicians for the NWCA project, based out of Salt Lake City, Utah. The roles involve field sampling in Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona, focusing on wetland ecology and resource management. Candidates should have relevant educational backgrounds and field experience. The position includes a 7 days on / 7 days off schedule, with provided lodging and per diem during fieldwork. Training will be provided.
Position Overview

ERG is seeking field technicians to support the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2026 National Wetland Condition Assessment (NWCA)—a nationwide survey designed to assess the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of wetland resources across the country.

ERG is hiring two seasonal field technicians based out of Salt Lake City, Utah, to conduct NWCA field sampling in Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona. These positions are ideal for early-career professionals with experience or strong interest in wetland ecology, botany, soil science, hydrology, or natural resource management.

Field Details
• This is a field-based position operating on a 7 days on / 7 days off field schedule for the duration of the season.
• Typical field days are 10–12 hours, depending on weather, site access, and travel time.
• Work is conducted in remote locations with limited services and intermittent cell coverage.
• Lodging and federal per diem are provided in hotels during field sampling.
• Crews consist of four staff, organized into two teams: Vegetation Team (Botanist + Wetland Technician) and Assessment Area / Buffer Team (Soil Specialist + Wetland Technician).
• You do not need to live in Salt Lake City, but all trips begin and end in SLC.

Positions Available
• 1 Soil Specialist
• 1 Wetland Technician

Dates
• Anticipated Start Date: March 25, 2026
• End Date: Mid-July, with approximately 1 week of travel in August and September.

Potential extension into late September based on project need and performance.

Training

All crew members must attend an EPA-led NWCA training course on project protocols and associated methodology prior to field sampling. ERG will pay for crew member travel and attendance at the training. ERG will provide additional hands-on training throughout the season in relevant areas including field safety, plant identification, and data QA/QC.

Job Description
• Collect data on wetland vegetation, wetland soil, water quality, and the condition of buffers
• Collect soil and water quality samples and prepare them for shipping to national labs
• Review all collected data for completeness and accuracy before submission
• Follow EPA NWCA protocols and standard operating procedures with strict attention to detail
• Use ruggedized tablets for data collection and daily QA/QC tasks
• Navigate to remote field sites using GPS, maps, and 4WD vehicles
• Collect, prepare, organize and label samples taken in the field; ensure proper chain-of-custody procedures
• Work collaboratively and communicate effectively with crew members and ERG staff
• Maintain equipment and follow all safety procedures in challenging field environments

Qualifications and SkillsSoil Specialist: $21-24/hr DOE

Required:
• B.S. in soil science, hydrology, ecology, environmental science, or related field
• At least two seasons of field data collection experience
• Knowledge of wetland ecology and hydric soil indicators

Preferred:
• Experience digging soil pits and describing soil horizons
• Ability to hand-texture soils and identify hydric soil features
• Previous wetland science experience documenting soil and wetland hydrology characteristics in the field
• Experience with ArcGIS Pro or ArcGIS Online
• Experience collecting data electronically using tablets or other devices

Wetland Technician: $21/hour

Required:
• Coursework in ecology, botany, environmental science, natural resources, or a related field
• At least one season of field data collection experience

Preferred:
• B.S. in ecology, botany, environmental science, natural resources, or a related field
• Previous experience with vegetation surveys or ecological monitoring
• Experience using dichotomous botanical keys and field guides, familiarity with the major plant families, and knowledge of western flora and/or wetland species
• Experience describing soil morphology, such as soil textures and hydric indicators

All Positions – Required Skills
• Ability to work in adverse weather conditions for extended periods including extreme heat, monsoonal rains, and hazardous wildlife (i.e. rattlesnakes, scorpions)
• Ability to hike up to 10 miles / day over rugged, steep, and uneven terrain, bend or crouch for extended periods, and lift/carry up to 40 lbs
• Ability to work in remote environments with limited cell service
• Comfortable driving and navigating 4WD vehicles on paved, unpaved, and unimproved roads for extended periods (2–3 hours at a time)
• Strong communication skills and ability to work both independently and as part of a close-knit team
• Strong attention to detail, positive attitude, and commitment to data integrity
• Valid U.S. driver’s license with an insurable driving record
• Ability to pass background checks (federal, state, education, criminal, and driving)
• Enthusiasm for learning plants, soils, and wetland ecology

Compensation and Benefits
• Hourly Rate: $21–$24/hour
• Hotel lodging during training and field sampling
• GSA Per Diem (meals & incidental expenses) during training and field sampling
• Medical insurance available (if elected)
• Accrued sick leave
• All travel (vehicle, lodging, and per diem) covered by ERG