Bachman’s Sparrow Banding Technician

The McConnell Lab at Mississippi State University is seeking a qualified banding technician to assist with graduate research focused on breeding Bachman’s sparrows in Southern Mississippi from early March through late June (dates flexible). Previous experience extracting and banding passerines is required. 

Technicians will actively participate in the banding process, map territories of banded Bachman’s sparrows, and record habitat vegetation data at the Marion County State Wildlife Management Area near Columbia, MS. 

This project aims to examine the effects of growing season fire on Bachman’s sparrow habitat selection and habitat characteristics.  There is some flexibility in start/end dates but applicants able to begin early March and finish the field season in late June will be given preference.

Job Duties Include:

1.)    Target mist netting and banding Bachman’s sparrows

2.)    Maintaining, collecting, and uploading data from 14 audio recording units throughout the field season

3.)    Resighting and territory mapping banded Bachman’s sparrows

4.)    Collecting vegetation data at mapped territory points

5.).   Entering and proofing data in Microsoft Excel

Preferred Applicants:

1.)    Hold or are currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Biology or a similar discipline

2.)    Have experience confidently identifying Southeastern birds by sight and sound

3.)    Have experience extracting and banding passerines

4.)    Have experience re-sighting color-banded passerines

5.)    Are capable of conducting field work in sometimes difficult conditions (i.e., heat/humidity, stinging/biting insects, venomous snakes, feral hogs, uneven terrain)

Technician positions are $12-14/hour and 40 hours/week with housing provided.

Housing is located at the Marion County WMA headquarters.  Technicians will need to bring their own field gear (binoculars, sturdy boots, backpack, etc.).  A field vehicle will also be provided throughout the season.

To Apply:

Email a single PDF titled:

LASTNAME_FIRSTNAME_BACS.PDF including (1.) a cover letter detailing your experience, interests, and qualifications, (2.) your resume/CV, and (3.) contact information for three references to Michael Warren at mdw651@msstate.edu

(please reference “BACS 2022” in the subject line).