POINT COUNT TECHNICIANS (10-15) needed to conduct tidal marsh bird research along the mid-Atlantic and New England coast! Technicians will support a large-scale project called SHARP: Saltmarsh Habitat and Avian Research Program, which investigates the status and distribution of tidal marsh birds along the North Atlantic coast. Particular emphasis is placed on Saltmarsh Sparrow, Seaside Sparrow, Nelsons Sparrow, Willet and Clapper Rail. See www.tidalmarshbirds.org for more information on SHARP.
Technicians will conduct distance-sample point count surveys, as well as broadcast surveys, for secretive tidal marsh birds in selected tidal marshes. Positions are available in coastal Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Ideal applicants will have prior experience with point count surveys and broadcast surveys, and be willing to work long hours in remote marshes under harsh field conditions (biting insects and heat). All applicants must have a valid drivers license, a good driving record, a good sense of humor, and the ability to adjust to varying schedules throughout the field season. Applicants must also have a working knowledge of north-eastern bird identification by sight and sound. Some positions may require use of a personal vehicle for work (mileage reimbursable). Maryland and Virginia positions require significant motorboat experience; applicants should describe boat experience in their application letter and include an additional reference that can attest to boating skills. Positions will be filled contingent on confirmation of funding. Housing may be available for all positions. Salary starts at ~$9/hour and will be commensurate with experience. Two crew leader positions are available to help organize efforts in the northern (Maine to New York) and southern (New Jersey to Virginia) regions; both positions require previous experience leading and training crews. Crew leader positions start at ~$11/hour. Positions will begin late April 2013 and conclude late July - early August 2013. To apply, please send a resume and application letter by April 29th with three references to [email protected].
