Job Description
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
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