Avian Surveyor; Biological Science Assistant

Initial Posting Date:

02/26/2026

Final date to receive applications:

03/05/2026

Agency:

Department of Fish and Wildlife

Salary Range:

$3,515 - $4,124

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Avian Surveyor (Biological Science Assistant)

Hiring one seasonal position with anticipated duration of May 2, 2026 – October 16, 2026

(These are estimated dates. Length of season(s) may be shortened or extended depending on project needs, funding, or factors beyond the project’s control).

Location: Based out of Newport or Tillamook, Oregon. Work to be conducted across the north Oregon Coast.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OREGON’S NATURAL RESOURCES!

Opportunity Awaits, Apply Today! We especially encourage students, early career professionals, and anyone interested in a career in fish, wildlife, and natural resources, to apply! Come learn and train with ODFW and help us fulfill our mission:
To protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations.

As an Avian Surveyor (Biological Science Assistant) with the North Coast Watershed District you will monitor use of Oregon’s coastal estuaries and nearshore habitats by waterbirds and other avian species and engage in research related to bird populations.

Duties include:

• Conducting point counts on road-based routes to enumerate colonial waterbirds and other avian species
• Monitoring colonies of seabirds, including cormorant species, common murres, tufted puffins, and other species
• Entering and manipulating data in Microsoft Excel, Access, and other programs
• Other duties such as performing simple GIS tasks and report writing may also be required.

This position offers a significant opportunity for the motivated candidate to develop wildlife survey and data management skills.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

For a full review of the position details, duties and working conditions, .

Clearly describe how you meet the desired attributes in your application materials. Your application materials will determine if you are selected to move forward in the selection process. Please include detailed work and education history.

Minimum qualifications are not established for this position; however, we are seeking applicants with the following experience or skills. Preference for interviews may be given to candidates with these skills and background:

• Experience identifying Oregon waterbirds using a spotting scope and binoculars
• Experience collecting and accurately record field data
• Experience using computer software to manage field data
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Experience working independently and collaboratively
• Flexibility to dynamic field conditions
• Enthusiasm for working with birds in field settings
• Anyone who has or is in pursuit of a Wildlife Science degree or related degree in biological/ecological sciences

• Questions about the positions? Please contact chris.j.knutsengon.gov
• Your application helps determine your starting salary. Be sure it accurately and thoroughly reflects your skills, experience, and education even if you don’t believe it directly relates to the position. We cannot accept any additional application materials submitted after the Final date to receive applications.
• The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process.
• This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified people to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill other vacancies as they occur.
• The salary listed is the non-PERS qualifying salary range. If the successful candidate is PERS qualifying, the salary range will reflect an additional 6.95%.
• State of Oregon Employees must apply through their employee Workday account.
• Please save a copy of this job announcement for reference, as it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline.
• Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be…