We are seeking a motivated individual to work on an avian demographic study on the Seward Peninsula in northwestern Alaska from approximately May 15 through August 1, 2016. The Seward Peninsula is an incredibly diverse area attracting over 150 migratory birds from across the globe. This is an exciting opportunity to assist with long-term field research of migratory landbird response to changing environmental conditions in the boreal-arctic transition zone. Primary duties will include, but are not limited to, nest searching for passerines, nest monitoring, avian behavioral observations, habitat surveys, invertebrate sampling, and data entry and management. Additional duties may include using mist nets and target netting to capture birds, re-sighting color-banded birds, and banding, collecting blood samples, and obtaining morphological measurements on adult and nestling passerines.
Requirements: Applicants must be in excellent physical condition and capable of hiking long distances (up to 20 km/day) across uneven tussock tundra carrying up to a 40 pound backpack, comfortable working in remote brown bear country while carrying a firearm, experienced with the use of GPS for orienteering, knowledgeable of backcountry camping and safety, and willing to maintain a positive attitude in extreme weather conditions with hordes of biting insects. Must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Must possess a current and valid U.S. driver’s license. In addition to these requirements, the ability to work long hours (>40 hours per week), work well with crew members, communicate with supervisors, and happily live in a very rustic communal tent camp with the same small group of people for the summer is essential. Desired qualifications: Preference will be given to individuals who have experience with identifying birds by sight and sound, nest searching and monitoring (specifically passerines), avian behavioral observations, capturing, handling, and banding adult and nestling birds, and plant identification/habitat surveys. Compensation: up to $16.55/hr Application Instructions: To indicate your potential interest in the position: (1) Please email a one page cover letter, a CV/resume, and contact information for at least 3 references combined into one Microsoft Word or PDF document to Rachel M. Richardson at [email protected]; (2) Please specifically address your qualifications for the job in your cover letter and provide references that can attest to these qualifications relevant to the position; and (3) Include “Avian Field Technician” in the subject line of the email.
