Black Rosy-Finch Survey Technician

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:  


 

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is seeking two Field Technicians to conduct alpine bird and mammal surveys in Wyoming’s high-elevation mountain ranges, with a primary focus on Black Rosy-Finches. These positions offer a unique opportunity to work in some of the most remote, rugged, and scenic terrain in the western United States while contributing directly to the conservation of rare alpine species.

Black Rosy-Finches nest in steep, rocky terrain above treeline in Wyoming’s western mountains, which support an estimated 50% of the species’ global breeding population. The primary objective of this project is to develop a statewide population estimate using standardized protocols established by the Rosy-Finch Working Group, while also surveying other alpine-obligate birds and mammals.

Fieldwork will involve extensive off-trail travel in challenging terrain, including point-count surveys, overnight camping, and long-distance backpacking. Work schedules will vary based on weather and field conditions and will require extended periods in the backcountry.

These are seasonal positions, expected to run from approximately June 1 through August 31, 2026.

Human Resource Contact: Dezzaree Schott / dezzaree.schott@wyo.gov

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed in the job level.


 

• Conduct surveys for Black Rosy-Finches, American Pipit, American Pika, and other alpine bird and mammal species
• Travel safely through rugged mountain terrain
• Collect data with close attention to detail, following established protocols
• Enter and proof data
• Communicate with a variety of individuals to coordinate and conduct surveys, including agency personnel and volunteers

Qualifications

PREFERENCES/**AGENCY REQUIREMENTS: 


Preference will be given to those with a high school degree, plus 2 years of experience in fish and wildlife resource management, research, or habitat development, or 2 years of college coursework towards a baccalaureate degree in wildlife management or another closely related field.

** Agency requires that the successful applicant must have a valid driver’s license.


KNOWLEDGE: 


 

• Prior outdoor experience, such as fieldwork or backcountry camping, especially in high-elevation alpine environments and rugged terrain
• Mountaineering experience preferred, but not required
• Experience conducting avian point count surveys using distance sampling protocols, identifying western bird species by sight and sound
• Must be reliable, communicative, and able to work safely in remote locations and challenging conditions
• Must pay close attention to detail, both in the field and the office
• Experience using GPS and maps for navigation and data collection
• Must have a valid driver's license and the ability to operate a 4WD vehicle

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:


None - See "Preferences"

 

Necessary Special Requirements

PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Must be able to safely travel, camp, and conduct field surveys for multiple days in remote, backcountry conditions, often in bear country, and potentially under adverse weather conditions
• Must be able to hike and backpack long distances in rugged terrain
• Work schedule will be variable and subject to change on short notice; this includes working long hours, early mornings, or weekends, as needed
• This position will involve a considerable amount of time driving to and from field sites

NOTES: 

• FLSA: Non-exempt
• Cover Letter: Applicants must submit a cover letter with the online application describing suitability for the job, prior experience, and dates of availability
• Contact: For more information, contact Zach Wallace, Nongame Bird Biologist, at zach.wallace1@wyo.gov or (307) 335-2613
• Positions will begin June 1, 2026 and extend through August 31, 2026 
• Successful applicants for employment must pass a background check prior to appointment
• Field survey equipment and vehicle will be provided
• Positions are based in Lander, WY. Housing in Lander will not be provided. This position may require the use of hotels, for which the technician must initially pay and be reimbursed later 

Supplemental Information

040-Game and Fish-Wildlife Division

Click here to view the State of Wyoming Classification and Pay Structure.

Click here to view the State of Wyoming total Compensation Calculator.

URL: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/wyoming/default.cfm

The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities. 
 

Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.