Experienced Bird Bander - Colorado

Title: Seasonal Bird Bander

Location: Banding Stations near Ridgway and Grand Junction, Colorado

Salary: $1,368 bi-weekly, approx. ~$4,300 for season

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

Duration: Aug 26th through Oct 8th, 2021

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 two fall migration banding stations. One is located at Ridgway State Park and the other is located in Grand Junction, CO. Position is approximately 6 weeks of banding; dates are August 26th – October 8th. The bander will run both stations; 2 weeks at Ridgway followed by 4 weeks in Grand Junction. Primary duties are bird capture and banding, but also include: set-up and dismantling of banding stations, 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. Work schedule is 40 hrs per week, with a 5 or 6-day work week depending on schedule. Banding station is visited by numerous school groups and the bander will assist with educational banding demonstrations. All equipment provided. Housing is provided near each banding station. Bander will attend a 2-day orientation at our headquarters in Brighton, CO (Aug 26th – 27th). Mileage is paid for travel from Brighton to the banding stations. 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 passerine bird species captured, using molt patterns, skulling, and other criteria described in the Pyle Guide. 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.

West Slope Bird-Bander.pdf