CLARK’S NUTCRACKER FIELD ASSISTANT. One field assistant is needed to work on a Ph.D. research project on the population and behavioral ecology of Clark’s Nutcrackers in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The study site is located outside of Jackson, WY in Bridger-Teton National Forest, primarily between 7,500 and 10,000’. The research focuses on understanding how the decline of whitebark pine is impacting Clark’s Nutcracker demography and habitat use. In the process, we will also better determine the ecology and social system of this little known bird. Assistant will primarily be involved in radio tracking, carrying out behavioral watches to assess foraging ecology, and performing point counts and habitat surveys. Assistants will maintain a field journal, do data entry and verification, and prepare equipment for field work. The position is for two months, from 1 August through 30 September. A modest $800/month, plus a $500/mo housing reimbursement is provided. Assistants are expected to work very long hours, five days per week (six occasionally). These will be long, physically exhausting days, at high altitudes, often in rain, hail, and snow. Successful applicant must have experience spending time in the backcountry. Must be in great shape with a strong back and knees, and must be willing and happy to work in cold conditions, and to regularly climb up and down VERY steep mountains. Must be highly motivated, with a strong work ethic, a passion for field work, excellent communication skills, and patience with short-notice schedule changes. Applicants should enjoy working independently with a high level of responsibility in field work and data entry as well as working frequently with a partner. An ability to maintain a positive attitude while tackling the rigors of field work is essential. A lot of creativity and patience is often required to figure out how to handle daily field situations. Must take excellent, detailed field notes. Prior experience with birds, navigation with GPS units and maps, vegetation sampling, and radio telemetry is desirable, but not required. A car is required. There are grizzly bears, and hazards associated with working in remote field sites. However, I will teach you how to work safely in the backcountry. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and the positions will remain open until filled. If interested, apply sooner rather than later. Please include the following in your application: a resumé (one page resumés are discouraged - please provide detailed descriptions of your academic, volunteer, and professional experiences); a cover letter describing why you should be considered for the position; the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of at least three academic / professional references (preferably ones familiar with your ability to conduct field work); and the dates you are available to work. Applications should be sent as attachments by email to Taza Schaming (tds55 AT cornell.edu).
