Ecology Field Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Fire Ecology Field Technicians performs a variety of routine tasks that assists the implementation of fire monitoring work plans within the Forest Program. The Technicians will work from the Flagstaff office and field sites throughout the Flagstaff area. This a short-term, temporary, non-exempt, position expected to be funded through December 2025 and could change based on business needs.

Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We're looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!

The Fire Ecology Field Assistant performs a variety of routine tasks that assists the implementation of fire monitoring work plans within the Forest Program.

This is a seasonal, full-time, hourly wage position based in Flagstaff, Arizona, with travel throughout northern Arizona. Housing and vehicle will be provided for travel. Camping in remote locations may be necessary on occasion. Anticipated start date will be September 21, 2026 and end date will be December 31, 2026.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The Fire Ecology Field Assistant assists science and program staff in the collection of ecological field monitoring data in pre- and post-fire forested environments of northern Arizona. Duties are anticipated and may fluctuate based on the business needs:

• Field work (approx. 90%)

  • Measuring fuels and forest structure (e.g. tree diameters) using a variety of equipment

  • Recording detailed information from measurements into handheld tablets

• Participation in AZ business unit functions and administrative tasks (approx. 10%)

  • Participate in Arizona business unit and TNC-wide meetings and efforts

  • Timely and accurate completion of administrative functions such as performance reviews, expense reports, and timecards

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

• Maintain project records.

• May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.

• Occasionally requires travel including overnight throughout Arizona for meetings, staff retreats, and occasionally in U.S. for meetings, trainings, and retreats.

• Occasionally requires working long hours, weekends, and holidays.

• Work is diverse and may not always fall under established practices and guidelines.

• Occasionally lift, carry, push, pull 25 pounds.

• Valid driver's license required.

• Associate's degree in natural resources; environmental studies or equivalent combination of education and 6 months' experience.

• Experience managing and prioritizing tasks from multiple sources.

• Experience working with computers and related software, such as Windows, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel and Word), Box, Teams, web browsers and internet research.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

• Field experience.

• Ability to assist with program budget development and monitoring.

• Ability to work independently and exercise independent judgment.

• Time management skills.

• Experience using Geographic Positioning Systems (GPS) hardware (e.g., Trimble, Garmin) and/or software.

• Experience with detail-oriented and numerical tasks, specifically collection of ecological field data.

• Experience working in a metrics driven culture.

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC's Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $21.10 - $22.42 hourly rate. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate's actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

The Nature Conservancy's mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We're rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it's career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there's many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant's unique experience. Please apply - we'd love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, "you'll join for the mission, and stay for the people."

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.
We're proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.