The ability to identify most eastern birds by sight and sound required. Experience in searching for open-cup shrub nesting passerines or similar required. Experience target netting, banding, and extracting small passerines is strongly preferred. Position also requires good color vision, ability to identify eastern birds by sight and sound, the ability to hike navigate, and work alone in rugged terrain and variable weather conditions, and an interest in avian ecology. Experience conducting point-counts, radio-tracking songbirds, and passive mist-netting preferred but not required.
Duties will include: Nest searching daily, but may occasionally assist with mist-netting and banding birds. We will use standard methods of behavioral observations and vegetation searching as well as radio-telemetry. Additionally, we will be target netting males and females of three target species: Black-throated blue warbler, hooded warbler, and Canada warbler. Monitoring nests daily, and providing accurate and detailed accounts of breeding activity.
Position also necessitates attention to detail, self-motivation, a positive attitude, and the ability to work long days in the field. Field days will often begin before dawn. We are looking for technicians who can be independent when needed but are able to work and live closely with co-workers. Eagerness to conduct avian ecology work is essential as well as interest in an immersive experience. Work begins mid to late April and lasts until mid-July. Shared housing and a stipend of $13-14 per hour (40 hours/week), commensurate with experience, will be provided.
Must have strong work ethic and positive attitude, interest in birds and conservation, and strong observational and listening skills. Ability to navigate using a GPS. Ability to follow directions and work independently. Must be working towards or have a B.S. in Wildlife Ecology or related field. Preference will be given to applicants with experience conducting forest bird surveys and working independently in the field. A valid driver’s license and good driving record is required.