Position Announcement:
- 24 hours ago
- 2 min read
Field & Monitoring Technician
The Bighorn River Alliance (BHRA) is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing the ecological health of Montana’s Bighorn River and its wild trout fishery through science, restoration, education, and collaboration.
Organization: Bighorn River Alliance
Reports To: Executive Director
Status: Full-time, non-exempt
Salary: $43,000 – $50,000/year DOE; benefits include health benefit reimbursement support (QSEHRA), matching employer IRA contributions, vacation and sick leave.
Location: Position is in-person at BHRA office in Billings, Montana. BHRA’s monitoring areas include Bighorn Lake, the Bighorn River (from Yellowtail Dam to confluence with Yellowstone River), and select tributaries.
Position Summary
The Field & Monitoring Technician is responsible for implementing BHRA’s field and monitoring programs. This position collects field data related to water quality and macroinvertebrates, monitors habitat restoration projects, maintains BHRA’s monitoring equipment and field assets, and supports safe and efficient field operations.
Primary Responsibilities
Conduct monthly water quality monitoring and sampling on Bighorn River and Bighorn Lake
Conduct seasonal macroinvertebrate sampling
Collect discharge measurements at side channel restoration sites
Operate drones for aerial monitoring, habitat mapping, and restoration documentation
Maintain accurate field notes, databases, and monitoring records
Calibrate and maintain scientific monitoring equipment
Oversee BHRA’s drift boats, jet boat, motors, trailers, work truck, and field equipment
Maintain the BHRA field office and equipment inventory
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, fisheries, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Experience with field data collection in aquatic environments
Ability to work independently and follow detailed protocols
Valid driver’s license; clean driving record
Physical ability to wade in the river, work independently, and lift 50 lbs
Drift boat and jet boat operation experience
Database management (i.e. SQL compatible databases)
Ability to possess or obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate within six months of employment
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with water quality sondes (YSI) and collecting river chemistry samples
Experience with discharge measurements (ADCP and flow meter)
Boat operation experience; both drift boat and jet boat
Interest in coldwater fisheries conservation
Experience operating drones
Mechanical aptitude
CPR/First Aid certification
Physical Requirements
Applicants must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, launch and retrieve boats, wade rivers, work on uneven terrain, and perform outdoor field work independently and in all weather conditions. Occasional evenings, weekends, and overnight travel may be required.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary: $43,000 - $50,000 annually.
Health benefit reimbursement support following successful completion of a three-month introductory employment period
Employer IRA contributions following successful completion of a three-month introductory employment period
Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Professional development opportunities, including support for obtaining an FAA Part 107 Remote
Pilot Certificate
Remote work may be available for employees whose primary residence is located in Big Horn County, Montana, provided operational needs and job responsibilities can be effectively met
Opportunity to work on one of the nation’s premier tailwater fisheries while contributing directly to meaningful conservation
To Apply
Send resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to jobs@bighornriveralliance.org with subject line: “Field and Monitoring Technician Application.” Applications reviewed on a rolling basis; position open until filled.
Start date: Negotiable, but as soon as September 2026.
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