Tribal Youth Intern - Fisheries (4 Positions)

VACANCY ANN#: STOI-25-061

TITLE: TRIBAL YOUTH INTERN (FISHERIES)

DEPARTMENT: SPOKANE TRIBAL FISHERIES

SUPERVISOR: FISHERIES BIOLOGIST

LOCATION: WELLPINIT, WA / AIRWAY HEIGHTS, WA

STATUS: TEMPORARY

RATE OF PAY: $18.00 PER HOUR

OPENING DATE: JUNE 9, 2025

CLOSING DATE: JUNE 23, 2025

INTRODUCTION:

The incumbent will gain hands-on experience in stream habitat data collection and other projects as assigned. This position is designed to be for up to a 3-month term, or 420 hours, based on availability and funding. This position is funded through the Bureau of Indian Affairs Tribal Youth Initiative program, which gives tribal youth (ages 16 up to and including 25 years of age) hands on experience in the field of natural resources.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• The Intern will work with the Spokane Salmon Restoration Collaborative (SSRC) under the direction of the Spokane Tribal Fisheries Department to assist with stream habitat data collection in the Spokane River Watershed. SSRC is engaged in habitat restoration to prepare the Spokane River Watershed for the reintroduction of non-Endangered Species Act-listed Spring and summer/fall Chinook salmon and improving habitat conditions for native Redband trout.
• The interns will become part of an interagency team collecting data for input into an Ecosystem Diagnosis and Treatment (EDT) model. Results will support identifying sensitive reaches of the watershed where stream habitat restoration projects are to be implemented and creation of a stream habitat restoration plan.
• The intern will assist biologists with extensive field work supporting data collection (habitat data, eDNA sampling, water quality sampling, geospatial data, etc.), maintenance of survey gear, and data entry. Interns will be responsible for other duties as assigned. The work week will typically be 10 hrs/day, 4 days/week, in possibly inclement weather conditions.
• This position will be extensively trained in various fields and safety protocols. Interns will be provided with personal protective equipment including footwear and waders. Interns will be expected to maintain a weekly log of their hours, activities, and accomplishments. Interns will learn how and why stream habitat data are collected to develop the EDT model.
• The intern will be expected to Complete data entry as needed. Maintain accurate time and activities logs. Drive truck and Demonstrate genuine interest in field by pursuing opportunities to advance learning and knowledge of this career field and better understand the Program.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED FOR POSITION:

• Genuine interest career field or subjects such as water quality, limnology, biology, invasive species, or protection of native species. Demonstrated interest should be expressed in cover letter and during interview.
• Strong organizational skills including time management. Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in completing project tasks.
• Ability to adhere to and follow written and oral instructions and established protocols
• Punctual, reliable, and safety oriented
• Maintain a high degree of professionalism in the workplace and in the field including appearance, communication, reliability, and collaboration.
• Strong interpersonal communications skills (respect, diplomacy, and tact) when interacting with the public, co-workers, and regional partners
• Possess a strong work ethic and positive attitude, motivated, enthusiastic, collaborative and can work independently and in a team setting.
• Ability and willingness to work in office and field environments.
• Experience using windows based computer system and software
• Ability to work long hours walking in a stream on uneven or steep terrain and with limited access to restroom facilities.
• Good decision-making skills and sound judgement.
• Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs and be comfortable working in tight spaces on a boat and often in inclement weather.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be a registered member of a federally recognized Tribe.
• Must be between the ages of 16-25 (grant requirement)
• Must be currently enrolled in high school or have received a high school diploma or GED.
• Must have an interest in the field of fisheries, habitat restoration, Limnology, Aquatic Biology, Aquatic Ecology, Water Resources Management, or similar.
• Maintain high level of organization, and possess excellent time management skills
• Must be able to work long days (4 days a week for 10 hrs/day) in inclement weather and in remote areas.
• Ability to operate computers and utilize Microsoft Office suite including Outlook, Excel, and Word
• Must have reliable transportation to/from the duty station.
• Valid drivers license and clean driving record
• Indian Preference Applies- Indian Preference grants preference to any enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.
• Safety Sensitive Background- Requires a higher standard of performance and behavior.

Confirmation receipt of on-line application submission and interview status will be sent to all applicants e-mail address used when applying. Applicants are responsible to regularly monitor their e-mail for interview notifications.

Contact: Sabrina McCoy or Kammi Rosenbaum

(509) 458-6583 or (509) 458-6527

E-mail: hrfrontdesk@spokanetribe.com

Applications Must Be Received In The Human Resources Department No Later Than 4:30 p.m. on the Closing Date

The Spokane Tribe Reserves The Right To Hire According To Its Indian Preference Policy

Applicants May be Subject To A Pre-Employment Drug Test Positions

All Positions With The Spokane Tribe Are Subject To A-90 Day Orientation