Barrier Assessment Technicians

About Trout Unlimited

Trout Unlimited is a national organization with 300,000 members and supporters organized into over 400 chapters and councils nationwide. Our mission is to bring together diverse interests to care for and recover rivers and streams so our children can experience the joy of wild and native trout and salmon.

Trout Unlimited is leading a multi-year, extensive barrier assessment project in North-Central Idaho and is looking for energetic, hardworking, and motivated individuals to join our team in 2026. These positions will focus on assessing road-stream crossings in the Clearwater Basin in Idaho to identify anadromous fish passage barriers for ESA-listed steelhead and sensitive species such as spring and summer Chinook Salmon.

We are looking to fill 2 temporary positions, one technician and one lead technician, with anticipated May 18th and August 21st start and end dates. The successful candidates will receive training and experience in assessing road-stream barriers, following standardized protocols, and using survey equipment. These positions offer valuable experience in ecological restoration.

The seasonal technicians are expected to work 40-hour weeks (with car camping) and must be able to traverse difficult terrain while carrying field gear and supplies in all weather conditions. The positions are based in Lewiston, Idaho, with travel and camping at multiple sites within approximately a 3-hour drive. A work truck will be provided for use in the field, and candidates are expected to supply their own camping equipment.

• Collect and organize accurate data using survey tools such as range finders, measuring devices, and tablets.
• Transport gear daily over sometimes difficult terrain.
• Work in a close-knit team with a high degree of coordination and communication.
• Follow directions, maintain standardized protocols, and ensure safety as the top priority.
• Maintain equipment and report maintenance or equipment needs to TU supervisory staff.
• Maintain situational awareness and manage risk in a remote field environment.
• Educate the public about project activities as needed.
• Uphold a high level of integrity throughout the season.

• Knowledge of hydrology, ecology, fish, riparian, botany, and/or floodplain habitats.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to interact with diverse personalities.
• Ability to quickly acquire new skills and techniques.
• Willingness to work long days in challenging environments.
• A strong passion for native fish, wildlife, and watershed ecology.
• A willingness to camp and work in outdoor settings.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• A valid drivers license.

• Experience completing road-stream crossing surveys.
• Wilderness First Aid/Wilderness First Responder Certification or equivalent First Aid and CPR training.
• Previous fieldwork experience in remote environments.
• Experience using tablets and electronic survey forms (e.g., Field Maps, Survey
  123).
• Proven teamwork skills.

Starting at $20.42/hour DOE. When camping, TU will cover camp grocery costs up to $130 per week per person. Trout Unlimited values a diverse, healthy, and family-friendly work environment and encourages candidates from communities historically underrepresented in conservation to apply.

Trout Unlimited is an equal opportunity employer. To learn more about our equity practices and values, please visit TU Equity.