HWI Spring Migration Monitoring Crewmember

Since 1983 HawkWatch International teams have monitored spring and fall raptor migration at a network of sites across western N. America.  These efforts are vital in documenting changes in regional populations for many species, and highlighting those meriting additional research and conservation efforts due to local or regional declines. 

We seek 4-6 enthusiastic team players to staff HawkWatch International’s (HWI) long-term migration monitoring sites in western North America for the spring 2024 season.  Crewmember duties include a combination of standardized daily migration counts of diurnal raptors and engaging and delivering outreach to site visitors (both scheduled and impromptu).

Length of Appointment:  Spring migration season runs from 15 February through April (Tubac HawkWatch) and 10 March through 15 May (Gunsight Mountain. HawkWatch). Positions require a full-season commitment and weekly schedules include 1 day off.

HawkWatch Locations: 

Alaska - Gunsight Mtn. HawkWatch (season runs March 10-15 May)

Arizona - Tubac HawkWatch (season runs February 15-April 30)

Qualifications:

• Good eyesight
• Ability to endure and stay focused during long hours in the field in highly variable weather
• Demonstrated birding and/or raptor-in-flight I.D. skills
• Ability to pleasantly and professionally engage site visitors about the work while representing HWI
• Ability to work well in a remote and intimate small team setting
• Excellent data collection skills (detailed, accurate, and in accordance w/ protocols) and the ability to digitally log data
• Willingness and ability to follow federal, local, and HWI safety protocols

Qualifications of top applicants:

• Previous experience conducting raptor migration counts
• Experience engaging visitors of all ages and skills about  conservation efforts

Compensation:

This is a volunteer position with crewmembers receiving a daily living stipend ($55/day in Arizona, $65/day in Alaska), including off days.  HWI will also assist with some costs of travel to the sites (varies by site). Per diem are disbursed bi-weekly via direct deposit.

Living arrangements:

Lodging provided at both sites. Crewmembers should have their own optics and vehicle (Tubac HW). Transportation is provided at the Gunsight Mtn. HW. 

Reports to:

Each HawkWatch will have a site lead who will coordinate with HWI supervisory biologists: Dave Oleyar and Jesse Watson. 

Full Position Description and Application Instructions: 

For more details see full position description.  To apply, complete the Spring Raptor Migration Monitoring Crewmember Application.  Part of this application requires submitting a cover letter and resume (as a single pdf file uploaded to application form) that details your experience, particularly highlighting time counting migrating raptors, and engaging the public.   

Visit www.hawkwatch.org for site descriptions and past technical reports.  

Application review and hiring ongoing, apply by 10 January 2024 for priority consideration.  

Send any questions to migration@hawkwatch.org

 **If equipment concerns would preclude you from applying, please apply and reach out–HWI may be able to assist.