Job Description: We are seeking four motivated individuals to work on an avian demographic study on the Seward Peninsula in northwestern Alaska from approximately May 17th through July 31st, 2017 (some flexibility with start date). The Seward Peninsula is an incredibly diverse area attracting over 150 migratory birds from across the globe. This is an exciting opportunity to gain experience assisting with long-term field research on migratory landbird and shorebird response to changing environmental conditions in the boreal- arctic transition zone. Primary field duties will include nest searching for ground- and shrub-nesting birds, nest monitoring, avian behavioral observations, habitat surveys, invertebrate sampling, data entry and management, and assisting with handling, banding, and collecting morphological measurements on nestling passerines.
Required qualifications: 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 30 pound backpack, comfortable working in remote brown bear country, experienced with the use of GPS for navigating and marking waypoints, and willing to maintain a positive attitude in variable weather conditions with hordes of biting insects. This position also requires the ability to collect accurate and legible field data, maintain and operate field equipment in a responsible manner, work long hours (>40 hours per week) with early mornings and minimal days off, effectively communicate with supervisors and crew members, and happily live in a rustic (but comfortable) communal tent camp without running water or electricity for two months with the same small group of people. Must also possess a current and valid driver’s license. Desired qualifications: Experience with identifying birds by sight and sound, nest searching, behavioral observations, and handling and banding birds. Experience with backcountry camping and certification in CPR/Basic First Aid is also a plus. Preference will be given to individuals with nest searching experience that have a Bachelor’s Degree in a science-related field; however, upper-level undergraduates working toward a degree with a strong interest in avian ecology and prior field experience are highly encouraged to apply. Compensation: This is a volunteer position. Round-trip airfare to Alaska from within the United States, primitive housing, food while in the field, camping gear, field equipment, and a small stipend (~$650) will be provided. Application Instructions: Interested individuals should email in one Microsoft Word or PDF document: (1) A cover letter addressing the qualifications listed above, why you are interested in this position, and your earliest date of availability; (2) A detailed resume; and (3) Contact information (email addresses and phone numbers) for at least three professional references to Rachel Richardson at rrichard...@usgs.gov. Please write “Avian Field Research Intern” in the subject line of the email. Review of applications will begin immediately and positions are often filled before the closing date on April 15, 2017 so please submit your applications early for priority consideration.
