Description: I am seeking one motivated research technician to assist a graduate student in a study exploring the behavioral mechanisms driving habitat selection in shrubland songbirds of northern IL. The project focuses primarily on Field Sparrows and Yellow Warblers. The position will run from ~15 April through ~15 July, but those still in school or unavailable until May should still (and are encouraged to) apply. Stipend will be $10/hr on a ~40 hr/week schedule, and housing near field sites will be provided. Responsibilities: Daily responsibilities include avian point counts, behavioral surveys, maintenance and deployment of field equipment for playback experiments, vegetation sampling, and data entry.
Qualifications: Field technician will mostly work independently after training to manage and monitor sites across northern IL. Leadership, organizational, and quality assurance skills are essential for this position. Candidates with experience in songbird point counts and behavioral observations, the ability to identify Midwestern birds by sight, a keen eye for detail and meticulous data recording, and the ability to withstand varying field conditions (e.g., heat, rain, ticks, etc.) and work long hours will be preferred. Candidates must be able to lift 30-40 lbs as car batteries must be moved over long distances to power field equipment. Lastly, candidate must have a valid driver’s license to operate field vehicles for travel from site to site. For further information or to apply, please send a letter of interest, resume, and contact information for 3 references to Janice Kelly by e-mail: ([email protected]). Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
