The Herpetofauna Taxa Lead for the Western Riverside County Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Biological Monitoring Program will plan and participate in surveys for a wide variety of amphibian, reptile, and fish species and their habitats, and will be specifically expected to oversee field crews. Working closely with the Monitoring Program Manager, Biologist Supervisor, GIS Analyst, and Data Manager, the Herpetofauna Taxa Lead will be responsible for protocol development and implementation, data collection and analysis, and report writing, with the desired outcome of meeting species-specific Conservation Objectives. The Herpetofauna Taxa Lead will interact with staff from multiple agencies, including the Regional Conservation Authority (RCA), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as well as local land managers.

Primary duties include:

• Plan, design and conduct biological surveys for Covered reptile, amphibian, and fish species.
• Oversee and schedule field crews to ensure accurate and reliable collection of data.
• Prepare study designs, including the development, testing and refinement of survey protocols using scientifically supported approaches.
• Lead the training of field crews on data collection protocols and species identification.
• Conduct literature research to stay current on Covered herpetofauna and fish.
• Coordinate with other Taxa Leads and participate in a wide variety of wildlife surveys as needed.
• Conduct surveys for, and oversee the removal of invasive aquatic species.
• Coordinate with personnel from other agencies and stakeholders on field activities, data collection, and site access.
• Prepare field forms, coordinate gpx files, maps using ArcGIS and field supplies for surveys.
• Prepare and maintain field equipment.
• Oversee data digitization procedures, and perform quality control checks of collected data.
• Perform data analysis using appropriate statistical methods.
• Write detailed reports summarizing data.
• Operate 4WD vehicles, digital equipment, computers, and lab equipment.
• Expected to carry a 25–30 pound backpack.
• Attend meetings and training as appropriate.

Basic Requirements:

• Three to five years of field experience conducting biological surveys and collecting data on
• amphibians and reptiles, with specific emphasis on trapping and handling experience.
• Knowledge of: herpetological fauna (preferably in southern California); standard identification and survey methods, including handling and marking techniques for sensitive (including threatened and endangered) amphibians and reptiles.
• Knowledge of and experience with fish (preferably southern California).
• Ability to design herpetofauna and fish sampling strategies.
• Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office products and mapping programs that include ArcGIS and Google Earth and the ability to create gpx files for GPS navigation.
• Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with a variety of groups and individuals.
• Ability to work independently with little to no supervision and cooperatively with a team.
• Ability to lead people in the field and to direct and provide oversight of office work.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions, and complete complex assignments in a timely fashion.
• Ability to keep clear and accurate notes, tabulate and analyze data, and prepare reports.
• Ability to work long days and the occasional evening and over-night shift.
• Ability to work in remote locations under variable environmental conditions (e.g., rough uneven terrain, off-trail, seasonally harsh temperatures).
• Ability to operate 4WD vehicles.
• Must complete training for, and be willing to use, Wilderness First Aid and CPR.
• Must maintain a valid California driver’s license.

Education:
Successful completion of a full four year course of study at an accredited college or university leading to a Bachelor of Science or higher degree that included a major field of study in herpetology, ecology, biology, or other closely related field. Completion of at least one course in statistics. A Master’s degree is preferred.

Supervision:
The Herpetofauna Taxa Lead is a full-time hourly position that works under the direct supervision of the Biologist Supervisor.

Employment Requirements:
• Valid state driver’s license with current proof of driving record.
• Final candidate will be subject to a physical exam, drug screening test and background check.