Wildlife Biologist – Marbled Murrelet Surveyor

Marbled Murrelet Surveyor

Turnstone is currently seeking to fill multiple Marbled Murrelet surveyor positions throughout Oregon. These are full-time, temporary-seasonal positions. These positions are well suited for early-career wildlife professionals who are motivated to build strong field skills, value accuracy and responsibility, and are comfortable working independently in forested terrain.

• Conduct marbled murrelet surveys following an established protocol
• Work independently during early morning hours, including pre-dawn, in coastal forests
• Use GPS, maps and basic navigational tools to locate and establish survey stations
• Record, transcribe and submit accurate survey data and other administrative paperwork
• Communicate clearly and professionally with crew leader, project managers, peers and landowners

Surveys are conducted on federal, state, and private forested lands. Exact work locations are project-dependent and distributed throughout western Oregon. Employment dates are approximate and may vary by project.

All surveyors will receive extensive training prior to starting surveys. A portion of the training will take place in the Redwoods in Northern California at the beginning of the survey season. This work involves significant forest driving, hiking off-trail in the pre-dawn hours along pre-determined routes, and working through regular periods of inclement weather.

Housing is provided at no cost for most positions and locations. Occasional camping near work areas may be necessary depending on location. A field vehicle is provided unless the employee elects to use a field capable personal vehicle for reimbursement.

Most positions begin mid-April, depending on environmental conditions and survey location. Some candidates may have the opportunity to begin in late March. Survey locations are distributed throughout Oregon, and some positions require significant daily travel, including extended drives to and from survey areas.

For well-qualified candidates, there may be opportunities to contribute to additional field projects involving special-status wildlife species, extending work later into the season.

Crew leader roles are limited. Applicants interested in consideration should clearly state their interest in their cover letter and describe relevant leadership experience and field oversight skills in their application materials.

Interviews are currently underway and will continue until all positions are filled. Once positions are filled, this application will remain as an open continuous announcement for applicants interested in any future openings that may occur with increased workloads and/or personnel changes.

Oregon (Coast Range)

$2773 -$3813/ month (equivalent to $16-$22 hourly)

Salary is dependent upon project and applicant experience.

May also be eligible for:

• Field housing provided for most project locations
• Field vehicle provided or reimbursement for work use of a personal vehicle
• Season completion bonus!
• Opportunities to work on additional projects before or after the core field season

Mid-April 2026 to late-July/Early August 2026 (possibility of extension).

Due to protocol requirements, mission critical work periods include April 12-16, June 29-30, and July 1-21; work schedule may be more flexible during other parts of the field season; applicants are encouraged to inquire during the interview process. Some weekend work may be required.

To apply, please complete the application below on this page. EMAILED APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

Application review and interviews will begin immediately and continue until all positions are filled. Once positions are filled, this announcement may remain open as a continuous posting for applicants interested in future openings that may arise due to increased workloads and/or personnel changes.

Applicants should have or be working towards a B.S. degree in wildlife biology or a closely related field. Previous field experience is preferred, but not required.

Additional preferred qualifications include:

• A strong work ethic, integrity, and accuracy in adhering to…