Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Avian Monitoring Science Specialist

What We Can Achieve Together

Arizona based. The Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Avian Monitoring Science Specialist is a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) permitted biologist responsible for conducting standardized Yellow-billed Cuckoo (YBCU) surveys on the Muleshoe Ranch Preserve culminating in a comprehensive technical report which includes territory mapping and habitat assessments for both federal and TNC conservation records. They work closely with other staff to research and gather conservation planning data to create relevant reports and data records; gathers and synthesizes data in order to create conservation activities and implementation plans. They create conservation plans to identify priorities. They conduct surveys, record data and write project reports. They may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, in hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.

We’re Looking for You

Are you looking for work you can believe in? At TNC we strive to embody a philosophy of Work that You Can Believe in and where you can feel like you are making a difference every day. We’re looking for someone with experience writing project reports and GIS software. The candidate should have strong communication and collaboration skills. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the ongoing mission of conservation by directing and shaping the work of our team!

During summer 2026, the Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Avian Monitoring Science Specialist will gather and synthesize data to continue listed species monitoring at the Muleshoe Ranch Preserve. They will conduct YBCU surveys, record and analyze data, and submit final written reports.

Duties are anticipated in the percentages below, and may fluctuate based on the business needs:

Surveys, 80%

• Conduct USFWS Standardized Playback Survey Protocols on two previously established survey routes
• Survey each route four times total, at 12-15 day intervals
• Unless mutually agreed upon deviation, adhere strictly to the following mandatory seasonal survey windows:
  • late June: One (1) survey
  • July: Two (2) surveys
  • early August: One (1) survey
• Travel mobilization to/from Phoenix/Muleshoe for each survey session

Data Management, Analysis and reporting, 15%

• Check and resolve disparities to ensure data accuracy.
• Draft and submit final federal compliance report in the specific format required for submission to the USFWS. This report must include:
  • YBCU Survey Seasonal Summary Form: Including all site visits, coordinates (UTMs in NAD83), and observer details
  • Site description forms: Documentation of dominant overstory/understory vegetation and canopy cover
  • Standardized mapping: USGS topographic maps outlining the survey area and specific locations of all cuckoo detections. Photo documentation: Interior and exterior photos of habitat patches and overall site conditions.
• Provide a written report for TNC that includes:
  • Territory and occupancy analysis
  • Spatial mapping; synthesis of results
  • Management recommendations
• Prepare final annual project reports and associated data for submittal by TNC Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Manager to AZGFD as required by the Scientific Activity License.
• Ensure the efficient synthesis of field data and report drafting, with a ceiling of 35 hours dedicated to final document preparation. Success in this role requires a high degree of organizational skill to meet reporting timelines within the established project budget.
• Draft reports will be completed for internal review by 31 August and final reports will be submitted by 30 September.

Administration, 5%

• Accurate and timely completion of required reports and other items such as timesheet and expense reports.
• Maintain accurate Preserve records using a TNC laptop or mobile device.

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

• Position executes all duties within the Conservancy’s Policies, Standard Operating Procedures, business practices, processes and guidelines and Business Unit (BU) practices.
• May work under infrequent supervision and make sound on-the-spot decisions.
• Resides and works in remote location around venomous animals (rattlesnakes, scorpions etc.).
• Requires long hours in isolated settings.
• Works in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain. Works under physically demanding circumstances.
• Travel in personal vehicle is required to/from home office in Phoenix area and the Muleshoe preserve (approx. 230 miles each way), and will be reimbursed at the rate in accordance with TNC’s travel policy.
• Meals while traveling for mobilization between Phoenix and Muleshoe will be paid out-of-pocket and reimbursed following the submission of an expense report in accordance with TNC travel policy.
• Adherence to the Project schedule to ensure it does not exceed allotments.
• Coordination of some aspects of activities with governmental partners.
• Valid USFWS and AZGFD SAL permits to conduct Yellow-billed Cuckoo surveys.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Agreement and adherence to the TNC Vehicle Use SOPs.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree in science related field and 2 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Valid USFWS and AZGFD SAL permits to conduct Yellow-billed Cuckoo surveys.
• Experience with GIS software and data to create maps.
• Experience with southern Arizona riparian ecosystems.
• Experience conducting Yellow-billed Cuckoo surveys, recording data and writing project reports.
• Operating and repairing various types of equipment and machinery (e.g., GPS device, UTV, ATV or OHV, etc.).
• Working in backcountry environments.
• Recognizing plant and animal species.
• Working with computers and related software, such as Windows, Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, and Word), “Box,” web browsers and internet research.

Desired Qualifications

• Ability to work independently and/or with minimal supervision.
• Ability to interpret guidelines and evaluate information and adapt accordingly.
• Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Ability to independently manage time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results.
• Demonstrated ability to live, work and navigate, alone or with a crew, in remote or backcountry areas unsupervised.
• Knowledge/understanding of current trends and practices in conservation, land management and natural resource preservation/conservation or similar field.
• Ability to accurately complete tasks independently with respect to timeline(s).
• Wilderness First Aid or basic First Aid Training.
• Communicating clearly via written, spoken, and graphical means in English.
• Experience working in a metrics driven culture.

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy‑owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered “high risk drivers.” To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page under the FAQ section. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee’s motor vehicle record.

Salary Information

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $38-40/hr. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate’s location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

Who We Are

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science‑based organization, we create innovative, on‑the‑ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

What We Bring

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non‑profit into one of the most effective and wide‑ranging environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well‑being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports the health and well‑being of the people we employ.

Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, colors, religions, genders, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.

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TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.