National Council for Air and Stream Improvement, Inc.
Job Description

Position:          Aquatic Research Technician I (2 positions, 2.5-month duration each)

Project Code: FW-FWW-1055

Reports to:      Forest Watershed Scientist

Work Week:    40+ hours per week to meet work demands
Revised:          April 22, 2026

Duty Station:   Western Washington

Duration:         Seasonal Position, July – mid September 2026 (2.5 months)

Salary:             $18.00 – $20.00 per hour; commensurate with experience; position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime pay; no housing provided

Benefits:         Position not eligible for benefits, does provide paid NCASI designated holidays

Safety:            The following job posting is for a safety sensitive position for which impairment while working presents a substantial risk of death and is therefore exempt from Washington’s marijuana testing law RCW 49.44.240, and pre-employment marijuana testing is required.

Key Words:     Aquatic ecosystem ecology, managed forests, western Washington

Essential Job Functions:

Will assist with large spatial study in western Washington to evaluate aquatic ecosystem response to differences forest watershed stand age by quantifying physical, chemical, and biological data between July and September. Conduct fish and macroinvertebrate surveys following established methodology. Collect aquatic habitat data, water and benthic biomass samples, and download data from sensors. Position will require working outdoors in inclement weather, often in recently harvested forest stands.  Must be able to get to and work from remote locations, drive safely on forest roads that may have active log truck traffic, read maps, navigate through a forested landscape, and relate well with the public. Possess ability to carry-out associated field work that may involve prolonged (multi-day) exposure to inclement conditions and a necessity to hike carrying equipment (20 pounds or more) over rough terrain (for 2 miles or more). Gather and analyze data and related information. Willingness to have a flexible work schedule.      Overnight camping near study sites is expected. Demonstrate an ability to work effectively with others toward meeting the goals of NCASI. Develop a familiarity with NCASI’s mission, policies, practices, and procedures. Become acquainted with the environmental issues of the forest products industry. Read, absorb, process, and communicate complex information. Assist the supervisor in responding to technical queries by NCASI clients and others in a competent and timely manner. 

Additional Responsibilities:

Undertake additional activities assigned by Supervisor. Follow all safety protocols. Pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test. 

Minimum Qualifications:

1.    Interest in aquatic ecology and experience with ecology field work.

2.    Must have driving record which can be approved by Federal Agencies to drive government vehicles and insured at standard rates.

3.    Basic data entry experience (Microsoft Excel).

Preferred Qualifications:

1.    Pursing a bachelor’s degree in a biological sciences discipline or related environmental field.

2.    Experience with fish identification and aquatic ecology sampling protocols.

To Apply: Send cover letter, resume, and 3 references with phone numbers and e-mail addresses to: Ms. Laurie Clark at lclark@ncasi.org, identifying “Aquatic Research Technician – 2.5 mos position” in the subject line. Applicant review will begin April 30, 2026, and continue until positions are filled. NCASI is an equal opportunity employer.