Forest Birds at Risk Field Technician

Forest Birds at Risk Field Technician

The Forest Birds at Risk Program team is seeking up to three experienced, highly-motivated, and personable field technicians to conduct forest bird surveys for species at risk in southern Ontario beginning in April 2024, contract duration ~4 months depending on start date and available funding.

Job location: Primarily based at Long Point Bird Observatory’s Old Cut Research Station (shared housing), near Port Rowan, ON, Canada. Surveys take place mostly in Norfolk and Elgin counties, with some technicians spending 2-3 weeks further west (e.g., Lambton, Middlesex; camping) or east (Frontenac Arch, based out of the Queen’s University Biological Station).

Position Concept

The Forest Birds at Risk Field Technicians will survey private and public woodlots for forest birds, with a focus on five target species at risk: Cerulean Warbler, Acadian Flycatcher, Louisiana Waterthrush, Prothonotary Warbler, and Red-headed Woodpecker. Daily responsibilities will include conducting point count surveys, taking forest composition measurements, recording forest health risks, and entering data. Technicians will also search for and monitor nests of the above focal species. Technicians must be comfortable working independently, waking up before dawn, and spending long days hiking outdoors in hot, buggy conditions and include areas with poison ivy and high numbers of ticks that carry Lyme disease. Technicians will be required to work some weekends.

Education/Training

Although not required, some candidates may be in the process of, or have already completed, a B.Sc. in biology or ecology or an equivalent wildlife-related program. Relevant experience or other informal and formal education/training are equally considered.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Legally entitled to work in Canada prior to applying (if applicable, successful applicants must provide a copy of their work visa and temporary Canadian Social Insurance Number prior to commencing work)
• Excellent knowledge of Ontario forest birds, including the ability to identify birds by sight and sound (i.e., must have experience identifying birds outside coursework)
• Experience conducting point counts and/or surveying birds using other sampling techniques
• Experience working in the field and/or using GPS and compass
• High level of organization, initiative, and ability to take clear and detailed notes
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills
• Able to work in a team environment as well as independently
• Working knowledge of Microsoft programs (Excel and Word)
• Possess a valid Ontario licence (Class G preferred), with a clean driving record
• Valid First Aid Certification (obtained before contract start date)

Assets:

• Experience nest searching and monitoring
• Experience with forestry-related tools and measurements
• Experience conducting field work in remote areas
• Experience working with landowners for the purpose of stewardship/conservation
• Meet Canada Summer Jobs requirements

Duties will include:

• Coordinate with supervisor and/or field crew leader to plan day-to-day activities;
• Conduct point count surveys for forest birds, take forest composition measurements, and record forest health risks;
• Search for and monitor nests of Acadian Flycatcher, Louisiana Waterthrush, Prothonotary Warbler, Cerulean Warbler and Red-headed Woodpecker;
• Assist with roadside surveys and habitat measurements for Red-headed Woodpeckers;
• Help create and maintain good relationships with landowners and other stakeholders (through interactions during surveys or potential outreach opportunities);
• Data entry and organization.

Salary: $18.12 – $19.33 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience, for approximately 40h work week, plus statutory benefits. Predetermined accommodations will be provided for the season and will be primarily bunk house or tent camping. We welcome applications from all candidates with the required qualifications and skills to apply to the position(s). However, please note that preference may be given to those who meet Canada Summer Jobs’ eligibility criteria.

Application Deadline: 11:59 pm EST, February 2, 2024, but early applications are encouraged.

To Apply: Please apply via our Job Application Portal, attaching your cover letter and resume (not exceeding 4 pages total). Please explicitly highlight relevant qualifications and skills, and indicate if you meet the Canada Summer Jobs’ eligibility criteria. While Bird Canada welcomes all applications, only those applicants who are selected for an interview will be contacted. Birds Canada will provide accommodation throughout the recruitment, selection, and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities.

Birds Canada is committed to improving levels of diversity among its volunteers, membership, staff, and board that reflects the diversity of communities across the country. In an effort to do so, we are actively seeking to improve our ability to reach all candidates with our job postings. Applicants belonging to racialized groups, who identify as Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, or who have differing abilities are therefore welcome to self-identify in their cover letter, if they feel comfortable, although this is not a requirement.