Marshbird Biological Assistant

About Audubon

About Audubon
The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet.

Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more ubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.

A lack of understanding of the temporal and spatial distribution of the Black Rail (Laterallus jamaicensis) in Louisiana has resulted in an inability to (1) study basic aspects of the species’ biology in this part of the range and (2) implement effective conservation measures to benefit this species. Without knowing when and where the Black Rail occurs in the state, restoration and management efforts will be unable to account for the habitat needs of this rare and declining species.

This project seeks to build upon eight years of research to locate Black Rails in coastal Louisiana, describe important habitat on which they depend, and understand their responses to fire management.

Supervised by the Coastal Biologist, the Marshbird Biological Assistant will work closely with Audubon Delta’s Coastal Biologist to conduct point-count and vegetation surveys. By assisting with this project, the Marshbird Biological Assistant will gain experience and learn from experts in the field of conservation and avian ecology, while gaining practical skills in ornithological research, monitoring techniques, and volunteer coordination.

• Length of Assignment:
  April 1 – August 1, 2026
• Hours:
  
  40 per week

This position is an on-site position located in Cameron Parish, LA.

$19.00 / hour

• Conduct point count and vegetation surveys at remote sites across south Louisiana. Most point count surveys will begin a half hour before sunrise or one-to-two hours before sunset and last 2-3 hours, preceded or followed by vegetation surveys.
• Assist in data entry as needed.
• Be expected to travel 4-5 days per week staying in provided shared housing in Cameron, LA.
• Collaborate with Audubon staff to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging principles are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work.
• Other job-related duties as assigned.

• Must have completed a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Biology, Ecology, Natural Resources, Agricultural Sciences, or a related field.
• Must be willing to work long hours outside under physically demanding conditions (hot, cold, biting insects, etc.).
• Must be able to traverse over a mile through various wet and dry marsh habitats. This includes tall & dense grass often with uneven footing, shallow pools, and scrubby vegetation.
• Must have strong organizational skills and great attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills.
• Experience driving ATVs and/or operating outboard motorboats is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle (mileage will be reimbursed at the current Federal rate).
• Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to and experience in advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging.

• It is a requirement for employment to stay in group housing provided in Cameron Parish, LA.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.

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