Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to protecting birds and their habitats. They are seeking two coastal bird technicians to conduct field research on various shorebird species along the Texas mid-coast, involving surveys, monitoring nests, and engaging with the public.
Responsibilities
- Conduct weekly surveys for Black Skimmer, Wilson’s Plover, Least Tern, and Snowy Plover, following established protocols, in various coastal habitats including beaches, dunes, oyster reefs, offshore islands, and wetlands
- Search for and monitor nests of Black Skimmer, Wilson’s Plover, Least Tern, and Snowy Plover. Collect data describing nests and chick survival
- Post fencing and signage around nesting and loafing areas
- Engage with the public to educate beach visitors about beach-nesting and migratory shorebirds to reduce disturbances at nesting sites
- Document habitat disturbance and nest predation events
- Periodically assist with capture and banding of adult and hatchling shorebirds
- Re-sight and record color-banded birds
- Participate in outreach and fundraising events (e.g., local birding festivals, stewardship at busy beaches) as required
- Ensure timely and thorough data entry
- Appropriately fill out time sheets and mileage logs
- Maintain equipment as needed
- Interact with staff and volunteers from other organizations, agencies, and the public
- Assist with other activities as needed, including surveying colonial nesting waterbirds by boat
- Maintains and fosters culture of safety
- Collaborate with Audubon staff to ensure that Audubon’s values are incorporated and followed in all aspects of our work
Skills
- Bachelor's degree in natural sciences, biology, or a related field
- At least one year field experience surveying for and monitoring birds
- Proficient at identifying gulf coast shorebirds by sight and comfortable using binoculars and high-powered scopes
- Willingness to travel in coastal bays via boats required
- Excellent organizational and data management skills (including familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite software)
- Demonstrated passion and enthusiasm for birds and coastal conservation and a willingness to engage with the public about such issues
- Strong interpersonal skills to establish and maintain collaborative and effective working relationships with a diverse team
- Flexibility to live and work with variable schedules as required for fieldwork
- Ability to sit, stand, and hike outside in hot temperatures in sandy coastal terrain for extended periods of time with or without accommodations
- Ability to work in coastal environments
- Comfortable working in adverse weather conditions, including cold, wind, rain, high humidity, extended exposure to sun, and heat
- Comfortable working around biting insects and venomous snakes
- Physical ability to lift 30lbs to shoulder height and carry, push, or pull objects with or without accommodations
- Must have a valid driver's license
- Commitment to Audubon's organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation
- Demonstrated personal and professional commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace
- Prior experience with surveying nesting shorebirds highly preferred
- Experience trapping, handling, and banding shorebirds is not required but a plus
- Experience with operating boats desired but not required
Benefits
- Housing (a two-bedroom apartment/house for the two field assistants) will be provided.
- Mileage between sites if personal vehicle is used
Company Overview
The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow, throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. It was founded in 1905, and is headquartered in New York, New York, USA, with a workforce of 501-1000 employees. Its website is http://www.audubon.org.
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