Wildlife Field Technician – Searcher Efficiency & Fatality Monitoring

The Opportunity:

Tetra Tech is adding a Wildlife Field Technician to support searcher efficiency and post-construction bat and eagle fatality monitoring at an operational wind energy facility near Elizabeth City, North Carolina.

This position will initially focus on searcher efficiency activities before transitioning to more intensive fatality monitoring work beginning in March 2027.

Schedule & Commitment:

• Work approximately 20–24 hours per month from November 23, 2026 through February 2027 as a Searcher Efficiency Technician.
• Work approximately 35–40 hours per week from March through September 2027 as a Fatality Monitoring Technician.
• A commitment for the entire period from November 16, 2026 through the end of September 2027 is required.

Location: Near Elizabeth City, North Carolina

Why Tetra Tech:

At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges.  Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world.  For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability.  Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development.  Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.

Your Impact:

Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference.  Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.

Essential Job Function:

• Conduct searcher efficiency activities according to established monitoring protocols.
• Conduct standardized bat and eagle fatality searches beginning in March.
• Support carcass persistence trials and related monitoring activities.
• Identify eagles, other raptors, birds, and bats encountered during monitoring.
• Accurately collect, document, and submit field data according to established protocols and required timelines.
• Walk established transects for extended periods over varying terrain.
• Work independently and as part of a small field crew.
• Communicate and coordinate with other technicians, off-site Tetra Tech supervisors, project managers, and site management.
• Follow all Tetra Tech and wind facility-specific health and safety protocols.
• Operate 4x4 vehicles and use GPS units, topographic maps, electronic data collection systems, and other field equipment.
• Conduct activities in accordance with internal procedures, applicable legislation, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.
• Maintain current professional and technical knowledge through continuous professional development.
• Work safely at all times and report health and safety incidents and concerns in accordance with company procedures.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Natural Resources, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Biology, or a related discipline preferred, but not required.
• Previous wildlife or biological field experience preferred.
• Experience conducting transect-based research preferred.
• Ability to identify eagles and other raptors.
• Good bird and bat identification skills for species occurring in the region.
• Ability to follow standardized protocols and collect precise and thorough data.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Experience using GPS units, topographic maps, and other field equipment.
• Ability to use electronic data collection systems and meet required submission timelines.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record without restrictions.
• Individuals currently pursuing a degree and other enthusiastic candidates with appropriate field experience are encouraged to apply.
• Candidates residing within approximately one hour of the project site are preferred.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record without restrictions.

Physical Demands & Work Environment:

• Candidates must be able to walk up to approximately 10 miles per day, bend, kneel, stand, and work for prolonged periods outdoors over varying terrain and in a wide range of weather conditions.
• The position requires the ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds and safely work with bird and bat carcasses.
• Technicians are expected to provide appropriate weather-related field gear and reinforced-toe hiking boots.

Life at Tetra Tech:

The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:

• Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
• Medical benefits, workers compensation insurance, and 401(k) plan.
• Merit-based financial rewards.
• Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
• Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
• Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth. 

Compensation:

Pay commensurate with experience

Pay Range: $25.00/hr. - $30.00/hr.

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.

At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.