Partner Avian Biologist

Scope of work:

Under general supervision of NRCS District Conservationist and WVDNR State Ornithologist, conduct professional-level work related to Farm Bill implementation and outreach, management, research and conservation primarily for cerulean warbler, but also golden-winged warbler and other nongame and game birds on private and public lands in West Virginia, as well as additional duties as assigned.

Projects and tasks include, but are not limited to, the following:

Assist partners (NRCS, NWTF, WVDOF, consulting foresters) in coordination and implementation of (1) EQIP/farm bill contracts for Cerulean Warbler and (2) Golden-winged Warbler Working Lands for Wildlife projects, on private lands in WV.

Duties include:

Assisting in private landowner outreach, education, and service

Development of management plans on private lands based on established best management practices

Administration of NRCS contracts

Pursuing Cerulean Warbler and/or Golden-winged Warbler management opportunities on public and private lands - e.g., wildlife management areas, state forests, national forests as well as private lands within species focal areas.

Professional development and education (e.g., participating in forest stewardship training workshops)

Pre- and post-treatment species survey and monitoring

Up to 2-3 weeks/year, assist WVDNR with (1) annual surveys and monitoring of species of greatest conservation need, (2) conducting breeding bird surveys, (3) additional avian point counts, (4) preparing annual WVDNR project and progress reports and statistics, and (5) assist WVDNR staff with reporting

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s or graduate degree in wildlife biology or related field, with a focus on birds.

Excellent networking and communication skills in a broad range of contexts

Experience with project management and coordination

Understanding of silvicultural practices, habitat management and conservation implementation

Experience with diverse field survey/monitoring methods and equipment, including GPS

Ability to identify by sight and sound all bird species native to West Virginia

Demonstrated experience and skill with MS Office, ArcGIS and other software tools

Employment period: 9/1/21 to 12/31/25

Pay rate: $15/hour; up to 1733 hours per calendar year. Annual pay increases averaging 5% through 5 years of employment. Health insurance is available.

To apply: Send resume and cover letter to:

Attn: Richard Bailey

State Ornithologist

WVDNR - Wildlife Resources Section

738 Ward Road, Elkins, WV 26241

Richard.S.Bailey@wv.gov