Fisheries - U.S. Military Veterans Only

U.S. Military Veterans! Are you wanting to start a career in a natural resource field? Continue reading to find out more about VetsWork; a paid internship program specifically for veterans who are interested in starting a career with agencies like the U.S. Forest Service.

Position Title - Fisheries Technician

Partner Organization - California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Partner Website - www.wildlife.ca.gov

Project Location - 50 Ericson Ct, Arcata, CA 95521

Service Dates - Open Until Filled (45 week, 1700-hour position)

Position Summary -

Do you have an interest in fisheries science? Want a hands-on experience directly sampling iconic salmon and trout populations in some of the most pristine watersheds in California? This might be your dream job! In partnership with the Mt. Adams Institute (MAI), the California Department of Fish and Wildlife will sponsor a VetsWork AmeriCorps Intern to serve as a Fisheries Technician.

Human development, water and land use, and habitat loss all affect populations of salmon and steelhead. We seek to understand how populations respond to both these pressures as well as ongoing restoration efforts. You could assist a team of scientists working to evaluate wild salmon and trout populations across coastal watersheds in Northern California. Catch and sample adult salmon and steelhead at weirs, observe them spawning in redwood forest streams, count them migrating up rivers with high-tech SONAR equipment and during snorkeling surveys. Use nets, traps and snorkeling in small streams to sample juvenile fish at different life stages. You would become an expert at species identification while learning a full spectrum of field methods used in the science of salmonid management. You would also be part of the department’s Natural Resource Volunteer Program (NRVP) providing an opportunity to assist the Law Enforcement Division to provide public service to the community and learn how Fish and Wildlife Officers help protect California's diverse resources from poaching and overuse.

This position will require a significant commitment to field work, but opportunities also exist for those that want to explore fisheries science by working with the data. You could learn approaches to visualize data, summarize information, and communicate project findings to others. Apply now!

Benefits -

• Monthly living allowance
• Education award
• Monthly housing stipend
• Student loan forbearance
• Professional development, training and networking opportunities
• VetsWork is an apprenticeship program approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Labor. Members with G.I. Bill benefits may be able to dual enroll as an apprentice and access their Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) of up to approximately $2,400 per month. Actual benefits vary by individuals’ qualified benefits.

Essential Functions - to include, but not limited to:

• Conduct fisheries investigations including assessing salmon and steelhead populations using SONAR, nets, traps, and snorkeling.
• Monitor a salmon trapping station to capture, tag, and release adult and juvenile salmon.
• Conduct field surveys of stream habitat and salmon use.
• Assist Fish and Wildlife Officers in serving the public by assisting with land inspections, public outreach events, recruitment efforts, and conservation education programs.

Position Requirements - to include, but not limited:

• Must have a valid driver's license, clean driving record, and ability to provide documentation when requested.
• Comfort with and ability to work in and around streams and rivers.
• Physical ability to walk off-trail on uneven terrain, lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• Complete the Natural Resources Volunteer application including a background check through CADFW to gain access to agency vehicles, equipment, buildings, etc. This background check process is in addition to the check for AmeriCorps explained below.
• Enthusiasm to learn the science of fisheries research and management.
• Must have served in the Uniformed Services of the United States, including Guard and Reserves and have a DD214 with an honorable discharge.
• At least 21 years of age at beginning of service term.
• U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
• Ability to commit to the full 45-week term of service.
• Selection, placement, and retention are contingent upon passing the National Sex Offender Public Registry, state of service and state of residence criminal history check, and a national FBI check.

Visit https://mtadamsinstitute.org/vetswork to review:

• The full position description
• A VetsWork Program Overview and FAQ
• Additional open VetsWork opportunities and locations
• Formal application steps

Contact erica@mtadamsinstitute.org, Program Manager, for further information or if you have questions about the VetsWork program.

Job Types: Full-time, Internship

Pay: $2,000.00 - $2,500.00 per month

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Application Question(s):

• Are you able to commit to the full 45 weeks of the internship program?
• Do you live within 1 hour of Arcata, CA or are you willing to relocate for the duration of the program?
• Why are you interested in this internship position? Applications will not be considered if this is left blank.

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)
• DD214 with an honorable discharge? (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $2,000 - $2,500