Avian Field Biologist in California's Central Valley

Position Summary:

The Seasonal Field Biologist will be an integral part of one or more field efforts supporting the Working Lands Initiative at Audubon California including landbird surveys of cover crops on rice fields, tricolored blackbird surveys of crops and wetlands, and waterbird use of wetlands. This position will report to a Working Lands Conservation Project Manager and will work in close coordination with the Working Lands Team at Audubon CA and the Migratory Bird Conservation Partnership that includes Audubon California, The Nature Conservancy, and Point Blue Conservation Science as well as other partners.

This is a full-time, temporary, grant-funded position scheduled for 40 hours/week with potential flexibility for a 4 day x 10 hr work week. The position is expected to last 4 months (mid-March through mid-July). The position can be based outside of the Central Valley however the job duties require a daily presence in the Valley. Housing may be available but is not yet guaranteed. Compensation is $22/hr. All local and regional COVID-19 guidelines will be followed. 

Essential Functions:

• ·Set up fields for monitoring. May include wading into flooded areas in chest waders and pounding in depth stakes.
• Conduct visual surveys of birds often requiring flock estimation. Focal birds include western waterbirds (including shorebirds), tricolored blackbirds and western landbirds.
• Conduct visual surveys of pertinent habitat features of survey areas.
• Communicate regularly in varying formats (e.g. text, phone call) with rural landowners and/or farm managers and other survey crew and staff members.
• Collect data using datasheets in the field, enter data into digital database and proof.
• Digitize field boundaries, survey locations, and survey areas in Google Earth.
• Prepare preliminary data summaries.
• Possible overnight travel to other field sites in California

Qualifications and Experience:

• Associate’s degree in natural resources, environmental studies, or similar subject, and/or 2+ years of applicable experience.
• Ability to identify and estimate numbers of western waterbirds by sight using binoculars and a spotting scope; tricolored blackbirds by sight and sound, western upland bird species by sight and sound.
• Skilled at driving a 4WD vehicle on narrow roads and in variable conditions, i.e. mud, wet and fog.
• Able to manage and prioritize tasks from multiple sources and strong attention to detail.
• Experience working with a diverse group of people, previous work with the farming community a plus
• Experience working on field projects in agricultural and natural settings, and interactions with private landowners a plus.
• Excellent communication skills; frequent communication with survey team members and private landowners will be necessary.
• Possession of a driver’s license valid in California.
• The ability to work long hours independently as well as part of a team.
• Technically savvy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office suite applications, internet browsers, Google Earth, iPad and related data entry apps; GIS experience a plus but not required.
• Flexible with scheduling and ability to anticipate upcoming needs; careful time management and punctuality; willingness to work extended hours and/or travel as needed to accommodate unexpected issues, workload.

Submit your Cover Letter and Resume here: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/4914/seasonal-field-biologist/job

Also consider applying one of the other seasonal field jobs offered at Audubon CA: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/4886/seasonal-field-technician/job