Avian Surveyor; Biological Science Assistant

Position Title

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
• Duration:
  May 2, 2026 – October 16, 2026 (seasonal)

Based out of Newport or Tillamook, Oregon. Work conducted across the north Oregon Coast.

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

We 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.

• Conduct point counts on road-based routes to enumerate colonial waterbirds and other avian species
• Monitor colonies of seabirds, including cormorant species, common murres, tufted puffins, and other species
• Enter and manipulate data in Microsoft Excel, Access, and other programs
• Perform simple GIS tasks and report writing as required

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

• Experience identifying Oregon waterbirds using a spotting scope and binoculars
• Experience collecting and accurately recording 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 with or pursuing a Wildlife Science degree or a related degree in biological/ecological sciences

• Questions about the position? 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 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; it is not available for you to view after the announcement deadline.
• Reasonable accommodation for interviews will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities.
• The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT/PST) on the close date. After submitting your application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans’ preference immediately following your submission.
• First time applying to the State of Oregon? Consider utilizing a Work Source Oregon Resource event.
• If you are experiencing difficulty applying for this position or have questions, please contact the ODFW Human Resources office at .

ODFW is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We offer a competitive benefits package.

• 11 paid holidays a year
• Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon
• Live, work, and play in Newport, Oregon and Tillamook, Oregon

• The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to all terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice.
• Finalists are subject to both a criminal history and motor vehicles check. Adverse background and/or driving…