Avian Field Technician — Idaho

Avian Field Technician needed for a large-scale study of breeding birds across Idaho from ~May 22–July 15 (dates might shift by a few days on either side as training dates are solidified) with the Intermountain Bird Observatory (IBO) at Boise State University. Primary duties consist of statewide standardized point count surveys, vegetation surveys, and data entry using the Integrated Monitoring in Bird Conservation Regions (IMBCR) protocol. Technicians will identify over 100 bird species while traveling across a wide variety of habitats including grassland, shrubsteppe, riparian, pinyon-juniper, montane coniferous forest, and alpine.

Pay rate is equivalent to $18.00–19.50/hr DOE, 40hrs/wk — **FLSA EXEMPT** (work schedule is flexible as long as you are working at least 5 days/40 hours a week on average over the course of the season).

We also have IMBCR positions in Montana and Utah (UT begins in early May), so let us know when you apply if you would like to be considered for these states as well.

Qualifications include: 
•    Ability to identify 100+ species of western birds primarily by sound and sight
•    Ability to work independently (alone ≥90% of the time) in remote areas for the duration of the field season
•    Strong physical and mental endurance to work long days, often with extensive driving between surveys
•    Ability to navigate off-trail in remote, densely-vegetated, steep and rugged landscapes using topographical maps and GPS units
•    Willingness to work in landscapes occupied by apex predators and/or venomous wildlife (bears, mountain lions, rattlesnakes)
•    Ability to carefully navigate rough, unmaintained roads in a 4WD vehicle
•    Careful and accurate data collection/entry/management
•    Strong interpersonal skills for communicating and working effectively with program managers, fellow technicians, and private landowners

Technicians must have a valid driver's license and proof of auto insurance, and use either their personal 4WD/high-clearance vehicle (work-related mileage will be reimbursed — the current rate is $0.655/mi, which is subject to change) or an IBO-provided rental SUV (must have safe driving record). You must provide your own high-quality binoculars (i.e., no compact binoculars — ideally 8 or 10x42 magnification), camping/backpacking gear, and working laptop for data entry. Primitive camping, often without phone service or facilities, and some overnight backcountry travel to survey remote roadless areas will be required. We provide survey equipment and basic safety gear (GPS unit loaded with survey points, rangefinder, inReach satellite comm safety device, bear spray, small first-aid kit, hatchet, tow straps, small air compressor, tire patch kit, etc.).

To get a sense of how challenging yet rewarding this job can be, see this recent IBO newsletter article written by two Idaho IMBCR technicians.

We strongly encourage technicians to expand their skill set of hands-on experience with other IBO projects throughout the field season. Other IBO summer research projects you may be able to volunteer for on your days off include: MAPS songbird banding, Yellow-billed Cuckoo surveys, and woodpecker surveys. Please visit our website, or check out our 2022 newsletter to learn more about our organization and the projects we work on!

There may be opportunities to extend employment to aid in other projects if needed.

To Apply: submit via email — with subject line titled "2023 Idaho IMBCR Technician" — a single PDF document which includes a one-page cover letter describing your interest and qualifications for the position (please focus on your experience/interest in birds and backcountry travel), and your resume including 3 professional references, to Jeremy Halka (jeremyhalka AT boisestate.edu). Positions will be filled as soon as suitable applicants are found.