Nesting Bird Field Technician

Monitor and manage beach nesting birds, including piping plover, American oyster catcher, least tern, black skimmer, common tern, and royal tern at the Holgate and Little Beach Units of the Edwin

B. Forsythe NWR and Horseshoe Island from ~ April 1 - August (exact end-date determined on a rolling basis, as nesting season dictates). Will work as part of a team, under the supervision of a field crew leader and senior biologist, to locate breeding pairs, find nests, determine nest outcomes, and track chicks to fledgling stage. Weekly colony counts. Additional surveys of habitat quality and predators are also completed.

Band resighting is a daily part of job. Field data is collected electronically using a phone-based app. Will assist with data entry, mapping, and reporting, as needed. May participate in some bird banding, but it is not a primary or frequent part of the job. The sites are closed to the public so outreach is not part of the daily tasks, but interactions with public/boaters at Horseshoe Island is expected.

Degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or related is highly preferred, but will consider students currently enrolled in those studies. Previous experience with nesting shorebirds is a big plus. MOCC boat certificate a potential plus for some candidates. Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team. Tolerance to work in sometimes harsh conditions - hot, buggy, walking long distances in soft sand.

Must have reliable transportation. Must use a personal smart phone during work to collect field data. Transport to sites is typically by boat in a coastal marine environment. Free housing is available. Must be available to work periodic weekend days from late May-August. Submit letter of interest, resume, and 3 references to Todd Pover (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).