Eastern Whip-poor-will Field Technicians (4)

Position Overview:

We are seeking (4) field technicians to assist on an M.S. research project, studying the effects of forest management on Eastern Whip-poor-will (EWPW) and Chuck-will’s-widow (CWWI). Both EWPW and CWWI are in steep decline from their historical numbers, prompting us to investigate factors for their decline. 

This project revolves around point counts, moth sampling, capture/VHF-tagging of birds, and vegetation sampling, in diverse forested sites across 2 states. The 4 hired technicians will be split into 2 teams of 2, with each responsible for all the sites in their region. One team will be stationed in southern Illinois, and one stationed in southern Missouri. The M.S. student will be traveling between both states, providing support for both teams. 

Both study species are crepuscular/nocturnal, so fieldwork will be primarily conducted in the evenings, though there will be some day (and potentially pre-dawn) work as well. Typical work days will be scheduled for ~5pm-12am, but it may start/end differently based on research needs. (We prioritize respecting consistency in your sleep schedule.) Work will be 40 hours/week, and weekends always off. Housing and field vehicles/all equipment are provided. 

While prior experience is appreciated, we much more strongly value great attitudes, passion for conservation research, and a commitment to clean data. We will happily teach you any skills you would like to learn. Both southern Illinois and the Missouri Ozarks are beautiful, with rolling hills, rivers, lakes, and abundant nature to explore. 

Pay: $15-17/hour. ~5/13/24 - ~7/26/24

Responsibilities:

- Conduct auditory nocturnal point counts for all vocalizing species.

- Deploy and collect moth/insect traps (and light level meters).

- Capture (via mist or hand net) and process EWPW/CWWI (band, measure, collect biological samples, and VHF-tag). 

- Extensive driving of field vehicles, and moderate levels of hiking (some strenuous days required).

- Navigate to GPS pins, including on-foot, off-trail (i.e. bushwhacking), in the forest, at night (you will not be asked to work alone in these settings). 

- Nest searching (looking for eyeshine).

- Conducting vegetation surveys (structural measurements, some tree ID required).

- Entering and proofing data.

- Assisting in the set-up and maintenance of automated telemetry towers.

- Communicate consistently and proactively with the M.S. student, as the teams will have a good level of independence.

Desired (not required) qualifications:

- Completed, or working towards, a Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science, or related field.

- Previous experience working with birds, including experience with mist netting, extraction, and bird handling. 

- Previous experience conducting field work, especially a proven tolerance to difficult field conditions (bugs, bushwhacking, weather, weird hours, carrying heavy things, etc). 

- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to keep the M.S. student consistently updated (for both data and safety reasons).

- Good data and time-management skills, as there will be a decent degree of independence in scheduling.

- Valid driver's license and an ability to safely drive late at night.

How to Apply:

Please email a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 references to Holly Coates, at hcoates2@illinois.edu. Applications will be accepted until March 8th.