Utah and Nevada BLM Stream Monitoring Crew Leads and Technicians

Overview

In partnership with the Utah and Nevada Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Colorado Natural Heritage Program (CNHP) is seeking experienced field technicians to collect stream monitoring data through BLM s Lotic AIM Program. Four 2-person field teams will be hired, each with 1 Crew Lead and 1 Stream Technician. Teams working in Nevada will be joined by a field botanist.

The crew will begin field preparations in early April 2026 and will collect data into August/September. Training in Lotic AIM sampling protocols will occur during a weeklong session in April 2026.

The team will work with Utah and Nevada BLM hydrologists, fisheries biologists, and other BLM staff within local Field Offices. Crews typically work 8-day field hitches followed by 6 days off, camp on BLM land, and generally work 10-hour days. Data collection will include water quality sampling, stream habitat data, and benthic macroinvertebrates.

Field protocols are referenced in the AIM National Aquatic Monitoring Framework:
Field Protocol for Wadeable Lotic Systems.

• Lead and participate in field data collection for stream monitoring on BLM lands in Utah and Nevada.
• Coordinate field logistics, scheduling, and safety for the crew; manage equipment; and handle administrative tasks.
• Ensure organization and quality control of AIM data collected using paper forms and iPad tablets.
• Plan field season logistics and scout field sites prior to the season (Crew Lead).

• Coursework in ecology, natural resources, range management, or related field is required for all positions; a B.S. degree is preferred and required for Crew Leads.
• Field experience collecting scientific data is required for all positions; experience with stream habitat, water quality, macroinvertebrates, or related data is preferred.
• Experience with aerial photography (Google Earth), topographic navigation, and GPS is preferred for all positions; experience with ArcGIS is preferred for Crew Leads but not required.
• Willingness and ability to work long hours, travel extensively during the field season, share living quarters, car camp, and potentially backpack and hike long distances while carrying a heavy pack (up to 40 lbs) — required for all positions.
• Willingness to work in field conditions with exposure to inclement weather, rugged terrain, hot or cold weather, mosquitoes, and poisonous plants with a strong commitment to safety — required for all positions.
• High comfort level wading in various stream conditions (slick rocks, boulders, fast water, cold water, deep mud, log jams) — required for all positions.
• Strong attention to detail and written/organizational skills for lengthy field forms; experience collecting data electronically using tablets or other devices is preferred.
• Strong oral communication skills for interactions with BLM staff and private landowners — required for all positions.
• A valid driver s license is required for all positions; experience driving 4x4 vehicles on rough roads is preferred.
• Wilderness First Aid or similar field safety training is preferred for all positions.

Crew Leads: $22-24/hr technicians: $20-21/hr.

To apply, upload the following documents. Materials should address required and preferred qualifications. Applicants may redact information identifying age, date of birth, or dates of attendance/graduation.

• Cover Letter, Resume/CV

Colorado State University offers a comprehensive benefits package and a collaborative environment. Details are provided by CSU human resources.

CSU conducts background checks for finalists as required by law and policy. CSU provides equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination and harassment based on protected characteristics. CSU encourages prospective employees to learn about CSU benefits and opportunities.