Skip to main content

Vacant

Position: Wildlife Habitat Technician

Morrow Soil & Water Conservation District Wildlife Habitat Technician
Location: Heppner, Oregon


Come join our team. We currently have an exciting opportunity for an individual who is interested in improving wildlife habitats and working with various stakeholders in conservation efforts. Our mission is to conserve, protect, and develop soil, water and other natural resources for the economic and environmental benefit of the residents of Morrow County. To see more on our agency, follow this link: https://www.morrowswcd.org/

Responsibilities:
• Identify, develop, and implement habitat projects on private lands in collaboration with partners such as Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Natural Resource Conservation Service, and other resource professionals.
• Assist the local Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife office with activities including surveys, data analysis, capture/translocation, access program development, and educational outreach.
• Manage all aspects of habitat project implementation, including purchasing supplies, seedbed preparation, seeding, and follow-up.
• Use farm equipment like tractors, implements, drills, and sprayers for habitat projects.
• Research and apply for grants to fund habitat projects.
• Manage projects by setting goals, building partnerships, identifying management techniques, working with contractors, tracking tasks/budgets/timelines, conducting monitoring, and preparing reports.
• Provide technical information and support to private landowners and organizations involved in habitat restoration projects.
• Promote the program through presentations, tours, newsletters, events, media, and other opportunities.
• Work with private landowners to select habitat improvement sites and develop conservation plans.

Requirements:
• Flexible work schedule, including longer hours, evenings, and weekends during planting seasons.
• Comfortable with both office and field work.
• Willingness to travel frequently in and around Morrow County, sometimes towing heavy loads.
• Ability to operate and maintain various farm equipment and implements in remote areas.
• Proficiency in office tasks, including paperwork and computer work.
• Ability to work independently in isolated, rugged terrain without supervision.
• Occasional exposure to severe weather conditions.
• Fingerprinting and background check.
• Associate's or higher degree in a natural resources field or five years of experience in animal husbandry or farming.
• Oregon Public Pesticide Applicator License or ability to obtain one within 90 days of hire.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

Desired Skills:
• Self-motivated and positive attitude.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Organizational, recordkeeping, and time management skills.
• Mechanical aptitude for equipment maintenance and repair.
• Computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and GIS (Geographic Information System) experience is a plus.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team setting.
• Decision-making ability with minimal oversight.

Salary and Benefits:
• Monthly salary of $3,400.00, with a 7% annual retirement contribution.
• Cost-shared employee-only health insurance.
• Annual and sick leave.
• Full-time position dependent on the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife state budget.

To apply for the position, interested candidates need to submit a resume, cover letter, and three references by 5:00 PM on Friday June 26th, 2026. Application materials can be sent via email to kevin.payne@or.nacdnet.net or mailed to Morrow SWCD, PO Box 127, Heppner, OR 97836.