Avian Field Technician (Temporary Biological Science Research Technician 1)

Project Description: This study continues long-term monitoring of the forest bird community in the Andrews montane system. Our research has four main goals: (1) Investigating the influences of climate and habitat on forest bird distributions, by collecting long-term data on forest bird abundance, microclimate (temperature), and vegetation phenology data. (2) Tree climbing to collect aforementioned data across vertical forest structure. (3) Implementing the use of playback devices to better understand how competitive interactions influence distributions. (4) Capturing birds  to assess body condition and physiology of birds.

Position Description: The field crew: (1) conducts avian point count surveys along transects on trails, dirt roads, and by bushwhacking through forest, (2) assists with songbird trapping, banding, and taking biometric samples, (3) downloads and maintains temperature loggers and automatic playback-recording devices on the forest floor and within the canopy, (4) enters data and organizes data, and (5) may assist on other projects. 

This work requires hiking in steep mountainous terrain off trails, travel on dirt roads by 4WD vehicle (valid driving license and clean record required), very early mornings, and working outside for extended periods in cold and wet (or hot and dry) conditions.

Requirements: Applicants should have a strong work ethic, be self-motivated, and comfortable with working in remote areas alone. Being a team player is necessary for group work/living. We expect applicants to have basic knowledge on avian ecology and biology. Ability to adapt to a variable work schedule is also necessary. Our transects are on steep mountain slopes and across valleys with old-growth forest towering 200 feet or more;  ability to traverse steep, vegetation-thick terrain is required. We expect technicians to be able to conduct point counts independently on arrival. Point-count experience, ability to identify birds of the Pacific Northwest by sight and sound are required, previous bird-handling skills are preferred. 

Dates: 05/08/2023 - 07/14/2023

Hourly Wage: $15.59-$20.62/hour (depening on experience)

Please reach out to Nina Ferrari at hjabirdcrew@gmail.com with questions.

Apply through Oregon State University at https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/postings/130153.