Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Accomplishments
Timeline
Generic

Alyssa McDonald

Portland,OR

Summary

Dedicated and knowledgeable environmental professional with bachelor’s degree in Environmental and Outdoor Education, seeking Fish and Wildlife Biological Science Assistant position. Over 2 years environmental science experience. Adept at combining educational background with hands-on field experience, aiming to meaningfully contribute to wildlife conservation and habitat preservation efforts.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Biological Science Assistant

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Clackamas, OR
03.2024 - Current
  • Conducted creel surveys to collect data for estimating recreational fishing effort on Columbia and Willamette rivers.
  • Led crews in sampling activities for white sturgeon tagging and salmonid spawning ground surveys.
  • Maintained equipment necessary for biological sampling, enhancing operational efficiency.
  • Accurately summarized field data from angler interviews and sampling efforts.
  • Processed biological samples following standard operating procedures for lab analysis.
  • Developed pivot tables to distill angler information into actionable insights.
  • Communicated fishing regulations effectively to public daily.
  • Trained new employees, ensuring preparedness for seasonal fisheries.
  • Created recreation reports from data collected in creel surveys.

Preschool Teacher

Cadence Academy Preschool
Portland, OR
11.2021 - 11.2023
  • Crafted age-appropriate environmental education program engaging ten young learners weekly with plant and animal studies.
  • Adapted lesson plans addressing diverse learning needs of 20 students in early childhood education.
  • Encouraged environmental consciousness through regular indoor and outdoor nature activities.
  • Communicated intricate concepts clearly, focusing on emotional regulation and natural phenomena understanding.
  • Implemented comprehensive safety guidelines emphasizing self-protection and fire safety skills.
  • Partnered with educators and families during biannual progress updates and monthly school events.
  • Recorded and analyzed student development data to enhance trust and interaction.

Field Assistant

UMD Medical Department
Duluth, MN
09.2020 - 12.2020
  • Performed bi-weekly water quality assessments at 6 to 10 selected coastal sites on Lake Superior.
  • Managed precise data collection regarding water, wind, and weather conditions, recording findings in Google Sheets.
  • Upheld a clean workspace to avoid contamination of samples and analytical equipment.
  • Implemented preservation techniques for samples to maintain water chemistry consistency before analysis.
  • Adapted to diverse weather conditions, prioritizing safety through thorough checks of environmental status.

Intern

Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve
Superior, WI
04.2019 - 05.2020
  • Implemented engaging environmental education programs for various audiences, focusing on local ecological significance.
  • Facilitated invasive species removal projects by organizing volunteer training and coordination efforts.
  • Directed daily functions at interpretive center, enhancing visitor understanding of the St. Louis River ecosystem.
  • Contributed to Purple Loosestrife eradication by raising beetles for targeted release initiatives.
  • Produced informative weekly videos on seasonal ecological changes, fostering public awareness of phenology.
  • Developed an extensive manual for interns, outlining strategies and practices to improve program effectiveness.

Education

BSc - Environmental and Outdoor Education

Duluth, MN
Duluth, MN
12.2020

Skills

  • Watercraft safety
  • Field work
  • Salmonid identification
  • Biological sampling
  • Data entry
  • Team leadership
  • Watercraft safety
  • Field work
  • Salmonid identification
  • Biological sampling
  • Data entry
  • Team leadership

Certification

  • CPR/First Aid Certification July 2025
  • American Canoe Association Instructor Certification May 2020

Accomplishments

  • Matt Link Outstanding Outdoor Educator Award 2020
  • M. Martha Ryan Outdoor Leader Scholarship 2020

Timeline

Biological Science Assistant

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
03.2024 - Current

Preschool Teacher

Cadence Academy Preschool
11.2021 - 11.2023

Field Assistant

UMD Medical Department
09.2020 - 12.2020

Intern

Lake Superior Estuarine Research Reserve
04.2019 - 05.2020

BSc - Environmental and Outdoor Education

Duluth, MN