Student field worker and research assistants (total of 9 positions) are needed for a project with USGS Maine Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Maine to study birds in Spruce-Fir Forests throughout Maine and their response to forest management.
Description: The selected applicants will conduct point count surveys, forested vegetation surveys, and enter data into a Microsoft Access database. Bird surveys will take place early each morning and data will be entered each evening. Duties also may include territory plotting, behavioral observations, nest searching, and invertebrate sampling. This study will focus primarily on birds in softwood dominated forests, but field research will be conducted in the working forest landscape and include mixed forest stands as well. Please send a CV or resume with a cover letter detailing interest in the position, relevant experience, and the contact information for at least 3 references to the email indicated below. Include in the subject line: Field technician application. Compensation: Employees will be provided housing near study areas in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, a vehicle for fieldwork use, and a wage commensurate with experience, ranging $7.60-11 per hour depending on experience and completion of an undergraduate degree. More experienced applicants may be asked to take leadership roles and supervise a less experienced technician and will receive compensative pay. Please indicate interest in your cover letter. Research sites are remote, and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities are located nearby such as hiking, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Qualifications: The ability to identify forest birds of New England by both sight and sound is essential. Applicants must have the ability to hear high pitched bird songs/calls, be tolerant of biting insects including black flies and mosquitoes, and be able to work alone and in teams. Experience with multi-species point count surveys for birds, vegetation surveys, data entry in Microsoft Excel and Access, and territory plotting are preferred. Enrollment or completion of a college degree in biology, wildlife, zoology, or related field also preferred. A valid U.S. drivers license and a demonstrated record of safe driving (subject to documentation and approval by University of Maine) are required. Safety training requirements (including CPR, first aid, driving safety, fieldwork safety, and others) will be addressed during the first week of employment. Contact: Brian Rolek Contact email: brian.rolek AT maine.edu Start date: 7 May 2013 End date: 31 August 2013 Application deadline: 17 February 2013
