Black-capped Vireo Monitoring Technicians

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign seeks 5 SEASONAL FIELD BIOLOGISTS to monitor breeding Black-capped Vireos from 1 March to 8 July, 2022.  The work will occur at Fort Hood Military Reservation in central Texas near the cities of Copperas Cove and Killeen.  The primary tasks will be to re-sight color-banded birds, locate and monitor nests, delineate territories, conduct auditory distance sampling surveys, and mist net Vireos for banding.  Workers will keep extensive records, follow detailed protocols, navigate using maps and a GPS, enter and verify data, and maintain field equipment including a vehicle.  Previous experience with any of these activities is a plus.  Experienced biologists will train workers in mist-netting, banding, nest finding, off-road driving, and navigation, making this an excellent learning opportunity.  Work starts before sunrise and involves walking miles each day in a hot, sunny environment where contact with chiggers, fire ants, cacti, snakes, cattle, and poison ivy is virtually certain.  However, Fort Hood encompasses rich natural areas where the variety of birds, butterflies, wildflowers, etc. are sure to delight any naturalist.  Applicants must be in good physical condition, have good hearing, and be able to see the full spectrum of colors. 

REQUIREMENTS:

A Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Valid driver’s license and clean driving record

Clean criminal record. You will have to pass background checks for both the University and the Army

U.S. Citizenship

University of Illinois faculty, staff, and students are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. If you are not able to receive the vaccine for medical or religious reasons, you may seek approval for an exemption in accordance with applicable University processes. At the time of this posting, details regarding applicability of University-issued exemptions on DOD property is still uncertain.

Pay is $17/hour.  Work may exceed 40 hrs/week and will include some weekends including Memorial Day weekend, but all hours worked beyond 40/week will be compensated via overtime pay.  Workers must provide their own housing and transportation onto the base. A list of local housing options will be provided to help workers find a place to live.  To apply, send cover letter, resume and contact information for 3 references to Nick Glover at bcvi.hood@gmail.com.  In your application, indicate whether you are or are not able to drive manual vehicles. The application deadline is 21 November.