Cole Stephens
Oakland,United States
Summary
Detail-oriented wildlife biologist and field technician experienced in independent and team-driven wildlife surveys, habitat assessments, and biological data collection. Proficient in GPS navigation and community engagement, with a strong focus on wildlife handling and conservation efforts. Seeking to apply diverse skills in challenging field conditions.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Bear and Cougar Technician
NMDGF
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Assisted with black bear capture and radio collaring, contributing to biological data collection for research initiatives.
- Maintained and monitored hundreds of hair snare stations for statewide population surveys.
- Conducted independent wildlife surveys in remote backcountry to assess population health using GPS navigation.
- Coordinated weekly field schedules with a three-person team.
- Communicated with private landowners and the public regarding research activities.
Statewide Wildlife Technician
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
04.2025 - 05.2025
- Captured and fitted radio transmitters on endangered prairie chickens to monitor their movements and enhance protection efforts.
- Conducted statewide surveys assessing populations of prairie chickens, quail, and mountain plovers to inform conservation strategies.
- Performed habitat assessments and roadside point-count surveys to evaluate ecosystem health and inform management practices.
Wildlife Data Intern
Cascades Carnivore Project
01.2025 - 04.2025
- Organized and managed thousands of camera trap images from multiple years of structured field surveys, enhancing data accessibility for analysis.
- Sorted camera trap photos and performed QA/QC, ensuring accuracy and consistency in wildlife monitoring data for effective research.
- Coordinated and supervised volunteers, facilitating the organization and completion of large-scale camera trap photo sorting projects.
- Responded to public inquiries via company email, facilitating effective communication and support for wildlife monitoring initiatives.
Field Surveyor
Turnstone Environmental Consulting
04.2024 - 05.2024
- Conducted independent wildlife surveys for northern spotted owls, marbled murrelets, amphibians, and terrestrial mollusks using standardized survey protocols.
- Performed habitat assessments, line transect surveys, point counts, and acoustic monitoring across remote backcountry sites.
- Identified 30+ amphibian and terrestrial mollusk species and multiple owl species through visual and auditory detection, enhancing species inventory for conservation efforts.
- Navigated rugged terrain using GPS during fieldwork in challenging winter conditions, ensuring accurate data collection and site assessments.
- Created detection maps and maintained accurate field records to support environmental consulting projects.
- Operated 4WD vehicles safely in remote field environments, facilitating access to critical survey locations.
Field Assistant
Project Biodiversity
06.2023 - 10.2023
- Collected biological and morphological data, relocated 100+ vulnerable nests, and applied PIT tags to 50+ nesting females to support sea turtle conservation efforts.
- Conducted nightly monitoring and conservation surveys for nesting loggerhead sea turtles along Sal Island's Costa de Fragata protected area.
- Safely handled adult sea turtles and eggs during nesting events while minimizing disturbance to wildlife.
- Trained incoming volunteers in sea turtle monitoring techniques, species handling, nest relocation, and field safety procedures.
- Educated tourists and engaged potential donors about sea turtle conservation, enhancing community awareness and support for conservation initiatives.
- Collaborated with an international team in remote field conditions, effectively adapting to challenging environments and maintaining productivity during overnight schedules.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Intern
Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
08.2022 - 10.2022
- Monitored and assessed animal health through feeding, weighing, and observing patients to support effective rehabilitation.
- Delivered daily care for injured and orphaned native wildlife, ensuring optimal recovery for birds and small mammals.
- Supported licensed wildlife rehabilitators in animal care by adhering to established handling and rehabilitation protocols.
Lead Field Technician
Vector Disease Control International
05.2022 - 08.2022
- Led a three-person field crew conducting weekly larval mosquito surveillance across northern Colorado.
- Coordinated daily field operations, ensuring timely completion of project deadlines and adherence to standards.
- Trained and mentored new technicians on field sampling protocols, enhancing team proficiency in data collection.
- Built positive relationships with landowners and the public, fostering community engagement during fieldwork.
- Operated 4WD and OHV vehicles to access remote sampling locations.
Field Technician
Vector Disease Control International
05.2021 - 08.2021
- Conducted larval sampling and applied larvicide following standardized field protocols to enhance vector control efforts.
- Collected and recorded biological data to inform vector control operations and improve intervention strategies.
- Assisted in preparing field equipment and coordinating site logistics to ensure efficient operation in remote locations.
- Worked independently and as part of a field team in remote locations.
Education
B.S - Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology
Colorado State University
Fort Collins Colorado 05-2023
Skills
- Wildlife surveys & monitoring
- Habitat assessment
- Species identification
- Wildlife handling
- Radio telemetry
- Camera trap management
- GPS navigation (Garmin, Avenza, OnX)
- ArcGIS
- RStudio
- 4WD/OHV operation
- Field logistics & planning
- Team leadership
- Volunteer training
- Public communication
- Problem solving
- Time management
- Independent and team work
- Office software proficiency
- Cross-cultural skills
- Scientific literature review
Timeline
Bear and Cougar Technician
NMDGF
05.2025 - 08.2025
Statewide Wildlife Technician
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
04.2025 - 05.2025
Wildlife Data Intern
Cascades Carnivore Project
01.2025 - 04.2025
Field Surveyor
Turnstone Environmental Consulting
04.2024 - 05.2024
Field Assistant
Project Biodiversity
06.2023 - 10.2023
Wildlife Rehabilitation Intern
Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
08.2022 - 10.2022
Lead Field Technician
Vector Disease Control International
05.2022 - 08.2022
Field Technician
Vector Disease Control International
05.2021 - 08.2021
B.S - Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology
Colorado State University