Experienced Bird Bander - Colorado

Title:                                 Seasonal Bird Bander

FLSA Status:                  Seasonal/Full-Time Employee/Exempt/Salaried

Location:                         Chico Basin Ranch, Pueblo County, Colorado

Salary:                             $1,200 bi-weekly, approx. ~$2,700 for season

Benefits:                         None

Purpose:                         Serves as Primary Bird Bander, running a mist-netting station and assisting with banding demonstrations for the public

Duration:                       Sep 2nd through Oct 4th

About the Organization:

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies conserves birds and their habitats through an integrated approach of science, education and stewardship. Our work extends from the Rockies to the Great Plains, Mexico and beyond. Our mission is advanced through sound science, achieved through empowering people, realized through stewardship and sustained through cross-border collaborations. We monitor and identify population trends, research habitat needs, engage landowners and managers in wildlife and habitat stewardship, and inspire audiences of all ages to be better stewards of the land. Together, we are improving native bird populations, the land, and the lives of people. Learn more about our work and programs at our website: www.birdconservancy.org

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

We are seeking an experienced bird bander for a high-volume fall migration banding station at Chico Basin Ranch, operated by Bird Conservancy of the Rockies in partnership with Chico Basin Ranch. Position is approximately 5 weeks of banding; dates are September 2nd – October 4th. Primary duties are bird capture and banding, but also include: set-up and dismantling of banding station, including clearing net lanes, erecting and maintaining nets, and proper storage of nets at the end of the banding season. Must be able to operate 10-15 nets without assistance. Attention to detail and excellent record-keeping skills desired. Responsible for both field and electronic (Excel) data entry. Normal work schedule is 6 days (Monday-Saturday) and 40 hrs per week. Banding-station is visited by numerous school groups and the bander will assist with educational banding demonstrations. All equipment provided. Housing is on-site in a trailer with use of nearby indoor bathroom and kitchen facilities. Reliable personal vehicle, valid driver’s license, and auto insurance required. Hiring contingent on passing a background check and drug screen.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience required (unless otherwise noted):

Prior experience and proficiency in mist-netting, safe extraction and proper handling, and efficient banding and processing of birds. Must be able to identify, age, and sex a variety of bird species captured, primarily, but not limited to, passerines. Knowledge of both western and eastern NA bird species desired. Bachelors of Science in biology, ecology, zoology, or related field preferred. Knowledge of avian biology and bird migration, and the ability to effectively communicate to education program participants at the banding station. NABC certification desired but not required.

To Apply:

Send a single PDF file containing a cover letter, current resume, and 3 references familiar with your banding skills to:  Colin Woolley, colin.woolley@birdconservancy.org. We will begin reviewing applications as they are received and continue until position is filled.