Mojave Field Biologist (Temporary, AZ/NV/CA)

Project Dates: April 1st – October 31st, 2025 Flexible, with possibility of extension

Priority Deadline: March 15, 2025, Open until filled

Compensation: $2,946 – $3,293/month DOE

About the Organization

The Amphibian and Reptile Conservancy (ARC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and restoration of amphibian and reptile populations and their habitats across the United States. ARC works tirelessly to protect endangered species through strategic, scientific, and passionate approaches, focusing on Priority Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Areas (PARCAs) and critical conservation issues facing these species. Learn more at www.ARCprotects.org.

Job Description

ARC is seeking 2 Field Biologists to support a pilot BLM Inventory and Monitoring program across several PARCAs in the Mojave Desert including East Mojave (NV), Gold Butte (NV), Arizona Strip (AZ), and potentially Northern Deserts (CA). This position is open until filled and an ideal candidate will be based in or will relocate centrally in this region, and can expect frequent travel to establish field sites across BLM, Wilderness Areas, National Monuments, and co-managed lands in the region. The primary responsibilities will occur in coordination with a remote supervisor to conduct field surveys, habitat assessments, and species inventory and monitoring projects for focal herpetofauna in each PARCA. This project is supported by federal funds and available until October, with a possibility of extension. This work will support conservation planning and habitat restoration efforts. Tasks may include, but are not limited to:

• Planning, coordinating, and navigating backcountry survey routes for visual encounter surveys (VES), trapping, dipnetting, and eDNA sample collection.
• Collaborating with ARC’s conservation science team to suggest and review aerial imagery, LiDAR, species records, and distribution models to target rare herpetofauna in the region.
• Setting up, conducting, and processing data from bucket camera traps, acoustic recorders, drift fences, and cover boards to passively collect occurrence data.
• Assessing habitat viability and mapping current threats to focal species.
• Assisting with habitat restoration projects, such as spring restoration, invasive species removal, and cattle fencing installations.
• Recording and organizing field data in digital formats using Field Maps/ArcGIS Pro, Google Drive, Microsoft Office, and other field data collection applications.
• Collaborating with partners, including federal agencies, partner organizations, and landowners to support conservation objectives.

Expectations/Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (biology, ecology, wildlife management) or equivalent field experience.
• 3+ years of experience with field-based wildlife research, surveys, or habitat management, preferably with southwestern herpetofauna.
• Leadership to carry out tasks independently and collaboratively to advance project objectives.
• Knowledge of Mojave Desert ecosystems and familiarity with regional reptile and amphibian species, habitats, and sampling methods.
• Willingness to work in harsh desert conditions, including extreme heat, rugged terrain, and backcountry camping in remote locations.
• Experience using maps (digital and paper) to navigate field sites and collect spatial data.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail in data collection, and ability to work independently and with a team.
• Comfortable working variable schedules based on field needs, including long hours, weekends, nights, and holidays as needed.
• Experience operating 4WD vehicles on rough terrain and using offline navigation tools.
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work long hours outdoors in potentially inclement weather.
• Positive attitude, adaptability, and strong communication skills.

ARC is an equal-opportunity employer. We value diverse experiences and perspectives as critical to informing and supporting our core values, and we welcome applications from members of historically under-represented or marginalized groups in the field of wildlife conservation.

All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital or pregnancy status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or genetic information, including medical history.