Beach-nesting Bird Technician

Job Description:  Candidate selected for these positions will be surveying and monitoring nesting Piping Plovers, Least Terns, Black Skimmers, and American Oystercatchers from Sea Bright to Manasquan. Assistance with similar work in other parts of the coast may periodically be required as needed. Duties include locating nests and broods; band resighting; constructing predator exclosures; fencing, posting and patrolling nesting areas; data collection and entry; educating beachgoers.

Project Date:  ~ April 1 – August 15

Work Schedule:  40-hour workweek includes 5 weekdays prior to Memorial Day, and then 3 weekdays and both weekend days for the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  

Preferred Skill Set: Previous experience working with beach-nesting birds and/or working on conservation issues with local communities a plus.  The ability to work cooperatively with the beach-going public and the capacity to effectively communicate with people with differing views in a calm and rational manner is essential.  Employees will have to provide their own transportation, including the ability to occasionally transport equipment and materials (posts, signs, post-hole digger, etc.). Ownership or access to a computer for data entry. Applicants should be in good physical condition, willing and able to work independently and as part of a team, organized and disciplined, and enthusiastic about working to help protect NJ’s endangered beach-nesting birds.  Valid Driver’s License in New Jersey required.

Compensation:  Dependent upon experience (+/- $15.50-19.50 per hour).  Mileage will be reimbursed for use of personal vehicle.  Housing is NOT provided.

Application Process:  Submit a letter of interest and resume including 3 references to:

Emily.Heiser@dep.nj.gov

Application Deadline: January 10th

*Please note: any interested applicant must be willing to comply with New Jersey Department of Health COVID-19 protocols for vaccination or testing requirements. For more information, please visit: https://www.state.nj.us/csc/employees/covid.html