Avian Point-count Technician

Agency

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Location

Pennsylvania

Job Category

Temporary/Seasonal

Salary

$684/week

Start Date

05/01/2023

Last Date to Apply

03/15/2023

Description

The Pennsylvania Dynamic Forest Restoration Block Project (PA DFRB project) is now accepting applications for its 2023 field season. We are in need of four avian point-count technicians. This is a long-term study monitoring forest and shrubland bird communities and their responses to forest management. The monitoring consists of standardized 10-minute avian point-counts conducted on public lands across the state of Pennsylvania. Focal species consist of the Golden-winged Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, and Wood Thrush, but technicians will be required to identify all eastern birds by sight and sound. After the point-count season (May 15th-June 15th), technicians will complete standardized vegetation surveys at point-count and telemetry locations. Additionally, technicians will assist with a radio-telemetry study on Scarlet Tanagers and have the potential to assist with the deployment of GPS and MOTUS tags on multiple other species. Additional tasks include: the deployment and recovery of Automated Recording Units (ARUs), daily data entry, and driving between field sites. Other field-related tasks may be assigned as necessary. Shared housing and work vehicles will be provided. Most technicians will be hired as point-count/general avian technicians, although we may hire two to three technicians focused on banding and telemetry. Expected start date is ~May 1st with an anticipated end date in mid-July, but there is some flexibility. 

Qualifications

Prior avian field work is highly preferred, but not necessary. Applicants must have demonstrated knowledge of the identification of eastern birds by sight and sound; have existing experience or the ability to learn to navigate by GPS and compass; be comfortable working alone in remote areas (sometimes without cell and radio service) with rugged terrain (i.e. mountainous ridges, wetlands, and dense thickets of thorny and woody vegetation), biting insects, and potentially hazardous animals (i.e. venomous snakes, black bears, and ticks); be comfortable working and living with numerous other technicians; and have a positive attitude and willingness to learn new things. Additionally, outstanding candidates will have prior point-count experience; avian telemetry, handling, and banding experience; knowledge of eastern plant identification (especially trees and shrubs); and know basic vegetation survey techniques. Off-road driving skills are a plus, and a valid driver’s license is required. This will be a rigorous position that requires early morning starts, long hours, and lots of flexibility, but it is highly rewarding and technicians will gain a diverse set of skills and experiences. 

Interested applicants can send a one-page cover letter, resume or C.V., and 3 references to Tyler Hodges at gpkdc@iup.edu. I will do my best to review and respond to applications promptly. Feel free to reach out via email if you have any questions. 

Contact Person

Tyler Hodges

Contact eMail

gpkdc@iup.edu