Cerulean Warbler Field Technician

Description

Two field technicians are needed with radio-telemetry and/or nest searching skills to assist with Cerulean Warbler research in Yellowwood and Morgan-Monroe state forests near Bloomington, Indiana from May 1, 2019 through mid- to late July 2019. Primary duties include conducting point counts, territory mapping, intensive nest searching and monitoring, and radio-telemetry. During point counts, technicians will record the locations of Cerulean Warblers, Brown-headed Cowbirds, Blue Jays, and American Crows and must know or be able to quickly learn the vocalizations of these birds. Other duties include conducting vegetation surveys, entering data, re-sighting color-banded individuals, and assisting with banding efforts. One technician will have a significant role in the radio telemetry study. This technician will track Cerulean Warblers throughout their territory and record locations using handheld GPS. The other technician must have keen observational skills and extreme patience to locate nests high up in the canopy. Technicians will work 6 days per week, 40 hours per week. Provided are housing in shared cabins and a weekly stipend of $360. Technicians must have a valid driver’s license and field gear, such as hiking boots, rain gear, backpack, etc. Use of personal vehicle to conduct field work is eligible for mileage reimbursement. South-central Indiana offers abundant outdoor recreational opportunities and the field housing is in close proximity to Bloomington and Nashville, Indiana. There may also be the option for technicians to assist on other ongoing projects.

Qualifications

Must have strong work ethic and positive attitude, keen interest in birds and conservation, and strong observational and listening skills. Ability to locate birds quickly using binoculars, identify bird species by sight and sound, and navigate using a GPS, compass and topographic map are also desired. Must be able to endure long workdays beginning at sunrise, hike several miles per day on steep, uneven terrain, and work in hot, humid conditions with ticks, chiggers, poison ivy, and the occasional rattlesnake. Ability to follow directions and work well both independently and in groups is required. Must have a B.S. in Wildlife Ecology or related field or be working towards degree. Preference will be given to applicants with experience conducting forest bird surveys, mapping territories, searching for/monitoring nests located in high canopy trees, and working independently in the field. For the radio telemetry technician, experience tracking birds with a handheld receiver and antennae is desired. Good sense of humor, an appreciation of bird puns, and knowledge of Indiana vegetation are a plus! To apply: Please send a cover letter discussing your qualifications, including your research experience and skills, resume, and contact information for three references in a single electronic document with “Cerulean Warbler Field Tech. Position” in the subject line of the e-mail to both Brandon Connare at bconnare@bsu.edu, and Alexander Sharp at arsharp2@bsu.edu. Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted.