Field Technician – Conservation (Carlsbad, NM)

Socket.dev; Carlsbad (NM); On-site; USD 30,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev is seeking a Field Technician - Conservation to support CEHMM's conservation programs for LPC, DSL, THM, and other priorities. The entry-level role involves biological surveys, habitat management, and data entry, with learning survey protocols under senior staff.

You will work under the Project Manager - Conservation, using ArcGIS Pro and field equipment, with emphasis on developing technical skills and contributing to conservation reports.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• Ability to conduct strenuous fieldwork in variable conditions.
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record.
• Ability to learn established survey protocols.

Responsibilities

• Assist with biological surveys for LPC, DSL, THM, and related habitats.
• Support conservation program monitoring and long-term data collection.
• Enter and manage field data in spreadsheets, databases, or GIS.
• Assist with maps and draft materials for reports.
• Support habitat management and invasive species control.
• Operate and maintain field equipment and vehicles.
• Adhere to CEHMM protocols and safety guidelines.

Skills

Biological surveys

Data entry

GIS

Learning survey protocols

Education

Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Range Science, Environmental Science, or related field

High School diploma or GED

Tools

ArcGIS Pro

UTVs

Field equipment

Trailers

Job description

Description

Title: Field Technician - Conservation

Pay Range: $22.00 - $27.00 per hour

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Report to: Project Manager - Conservation

Job Summary: An entry-level role supporting CEHMM's conservation programs for the Lesser Prairie-Chicken (LPC), Dunes Sagebrush Lizard (DSL), and Texas Hornshell Mussel (THM), as well as other program priorities. Conservation Field Technicians assist with biological surveys, habitat management, and species monitoring while also contributing to data entry, mapping, and preparation of conservation reports. This position emphasizes learning survey protocols, developing technical skills, and supporting the broader conservation program under the direction of senior staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with biological surveys for sensitive species, including Lesser Prairie-Chicken (LPC), Dunes Sagebrush Lizard (DSL), or Texas Hornshell Mussel (THM), and associated habitats
• Support conservation program monitoring and long-term data collection
• Enter, organize, and manage field data in spreadsheets, databases, or GIS
• Assist with the preparation of maps and draft materials for conservation program reports
• Support habitat management and invasive species control
• Operate and maintain instruments, vehicles, and field equipment
• Maintain accurate field records and support technical report preparation
• Adhere to CEHMM protocols and safety guidelines
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

Minimum Job Requirements:

• High School diploma or GED
• Ability to conduct strenuous fieldwork in variable and extreme conditions
• Ability to follow instructions and learn established survey protocols
• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Wildlife Biology, Range Science, Environmental Science, or related field
• Prior experience conducting wildlife or plant surveys, particularly for species of concern such as Lesser Prairie-Chicken (LPC), Dunes Sagebrush Lizard (DSL), or Texas Hornshell Mussel (THM)
• Experience with ArcGIS Pro
• Experience operating and maintaining field equipment, UTVs, and trailers