Coastal Bird Technician

Gulf Coast Bird Observatory is recruiting a coastal bird technician to contribute to a project monitoring Wilson’s Plover, Least Tern, and Black Skimmer along the upper Texas coast. The successful applicant will conduct field research activities at multiple sites across coastal Texas from early to mid-April through mid-August 2024 (start and end dates flexible for the right candidate)

Duties and Responsibilities

• Surveying for Wilson’s Plover, Least Tern, and Black Skimmer on beaches, dunes, and oyster reefs
• Nest searching for and monitoring of Wilson’s Plover and Least Tern
• Nest monitoring of Black Skimmer
• Assisting with capture and handling of adult and hatchling Wilson’s Plover and Black Skimmer for banding
• Posting signage around nesting and loafing areas
• Ensuring timely and thorough data entry and inventory of biological samples
• Appropriately filling out time sheets and mileage logs
• Maintaining equipment as needed
• Interacting with refuge managers and volunteers during project surveys and trapping days
• Assisting with other programs as needed, including American Oystercatcher and Black Skimmer monitoring by boat, bird camp, and outreach events

Position Requirements

• Prior field experience surveying for and monitoring nesting shorebirds
• Proficient at identifying shorebirds by sight and comfortable using both binoculars and high-powered scopes
• Excellent organizational and data management skills
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish and maintain collaborative and effective working relationships with a diverse team
• Flexibility to live and work with variable schedules as required for fieldwork
• A personal vehicle is required for non-work-related activities

Physical Requirements

• Sitting, standing, and/or hiking for extended periods of time
• Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle and UTV on beaches (vehicle and UTV are provided, prior experience preferred)
• Ability to work in coastal environments
• Comfortable working in adverse weather conditions, including cold, wind, rain, high humidity, and heat
• Comfortable working around biting insects and venomous snakes
• Physical agility to lift 30lbs to shoulder height and carry, push, or pull objects

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Salary and Benefits

Salary is $15 per hour. Housing will be provided on site for duration of field season. Pets can be considered on a case by case basis. This is a contract-based position. Additional benefits, including health insurance, are not provided.

Application Details

Individuals that meet some but not all of the position qualifications are encouraged to apply, especially those from traditionally underrepresented groups in the STEM and wildlife ecology disciplines including but not limited to women, people of color, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and members of indigenous communities. 

To apply, please email Dr. Rebecca Bracken at rbracken@gcbo.org with:

• Cover letter detailing how the applicant meets the required qualifications, and why the applicant is interested in this position.
• Detailed resume with 3 references (please indicate your relationship to each)
• Please include “Coastal Bird Technician” in the subject line.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received.