[Remote] Seasonal Coastal Bird Technician

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

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