Avian Field Technician

About the Role

Technicians will conduct avian field studies on pre‑construction solar development, habitat restoration, and southwestern willow flycatcher monitoring projects, with occasional duties such as nesting bird clearance, botanical surveys, and Mojave desert tortoise surveys. Fieldwork includes operating 4WD vehicles in desert terrain, using ArcGIS Field Maps on tablets for navigation, and employing compasses, rangefinders, and topographic maps to locate survey points. Data will be recorded on paper or digitally via iPads, then organized and entered into Microsoft Access and Google Sheets, supporting the project management team while adhering to safety protocols. • Conduct avian point‑count and nest monitoring surveys on solar, habitat restoration, and southwestern willow flycatcher projects. • Operate 4WD vehicles and navigate remote desert terrain using ArcGIS Field Maps, GPS, and topographic tools. • Record field data on iPads or paper, upload to Microsoft Access and Google Sheets, and support project management. • Follow safety protocols, communicate hazards, and ensure team safety in demanding outdoor conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸avian surveys
• ▸4wd operation
• ▸arcgis mapping
• ▸data management
• ▸safety protocols
• ▸project support

What You Bring

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking motivated individuals to join the team as Avian Field Technicians (Natural Resources Technicians) for temporary, non‑exempt, hourly, field‑based work primarily on remote project sites in southern Nevada. The role is ideal for those passionate about environmental consulting, field data collection, and teamwork while working outdoors. The position is full‑time, seasonal, and runs from March or April through July 2026, with possible overtime based on workload. Technicians will travel early each morning, often beginning surveys 30 minutes before sunrise, and will experience nearly 100% travel, including overnight stays, with field houses, hotel rooms, a field truck, per diem, and supplies provided. Candidates should have a B.A. or B.S. in biology, ecology, environmental science, natural resource management, or a related field, with coursework in ornithology preferred. At least six months of fieldwork or volunteer experience, familiarity with avian point‑count surveys, and the ability to identify southwestern bird species are strongly preferred. Required skills include accurate field note‑taking, proficiency with Apple iPads for data collection, and the ability to work in early mornings, high temperatures, and rugged terrain while carrying up to 20 pounds. The role demands excellent communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn new survey techniques and safety procedures. Technicians must be able to work both independently and as part of a team, take initiative to resolve problems, and travel to project sites 100% of the time with a valid driver’s license and 4WD capability. • Hold a B.A./B.S. in biology, ecology, or related field; coursework in ornithology preferred. • Possess at least six months of fieldwork or volunteer experience and ability to identify southwestern bird species. • Demonstrate proficiency with Apple iPad, rangefinders, and ability to work in temperatures up to 100°F. • Hold a valid driver’s license and be able to drive 4WD vehicles on backcountry roads; travel 100% of the time.

Requirements

• ▸biology degree
• ▸ornithology
• ▸fieldwork
• ▸ipad
• ▸4wd
• ▸communication

Benefits

SWCA is a growing, employee‑owned firm that provides comprehensive environmental services and emphasizes collaboration, continuous learning, and giving back. The company is 100% employee‑owned, ranks among the top environmental firms, and offers a supportive, team‑oriented environment with competitive wages and benefits, including an employee stock ownership plan for retirement. Compensation ranges from $19.24 to $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, location, and client requirements, supplemented by SWCA’s Total Rewards package that includes workplace flexibility, a strong corporate culture, and career development resources. Internal candidates are strongly considered, and the company prioritizes promotion from within. SWCA invests heavily in career development programs, offering award‑winning resources to accelerate staff growth and recognizing the valuable skills and experiences of its team members. • Receive hourly wage $19.24–$25.48, employee stock ownership, competitive benefits, and flexible workplace policies. • Access career development programs, internal advancement opportunities, and an inclusive, employee‑owned culture.

Work Environment

Field

Interview Process

-applications are reviewed continuously. -interviews are scheduled on a rolling basis for qualified candidates. -the application process may close once a sufficient pool of candidates is identified.