Interpreter/Spotter, Chestnut Ridge Hawkwatch

Core Responsibilities

    Serve as a primary nature interpreter to the visiting public and during public programs. Spot raptors and other birds, especially during peak migration, to support the Lead Hawk Counter. Take photos and provide daily highlights for social media. Set up and breakdown for scheduled public programs and special events. Assist in the smooth operation of Bedford Audubon. Additional opportunities for research and activity (e.g., communications, workshops, etc.) are available, depending on the candidate’s experience and personal goals.

Job Summary: September 14 – November 6, 2022, approximately 9am-5pm, 5 days/week including weekends, with some longer days during peak migration. Regular rate is $15/hour, overtime rate (more than 40 hours/week) is $22.50/hour. We are pleased to offer a voluntary housing credit that includes lodging and utilities at our historic Bylane Farm. The housing credit will be applied to your hourly rate. Please inquire for details.

Qualifications

Required Skills & Qualities: The ideal candidate for the HawkWatch Interpreter & Spotter is: Enthusiastic with a passion for conservation, environmental education, and raptors. Comfortable with cheerfully communicating with the public at large, including seniors, students, and families. Self-motivated and able to work successfully independently and in a supportive team atmosphere outdoors, as well as in a casual yet professional office setting. Possess basic computer literacy, word processing, and spreadsheet literacy along with excellent written and verbal skills. Attention to detail is a must. Essential functions of the position require hiking, standing outdoors for long periods at a time, and carrying 20 pounds of gear (optics, first aid kit, etc.). This is a long count, and not for the faint of heart! The HawkWatch Interpreter & Spotter must provide their own binoculars. The HawkWatch Interpreter & Spotter should hold a valid driver’s license and have personal transportation. Mileage is not reimbursed. The HawkWatch Interpreter & Spotter will take high-level direction from the Naturalist-in-Residence. Education & Prior Work Experience: Experience with nature interpretation and environmental education is required. A degree in Natural Resources, Environmental Science, Environmental Education, Wildlife Biology, Wildlife Management, or equivalent related experience, preferred. Previous raptor identification is not essential, but candidates should be motivated to learn. To Apply: Email your cover letter describing your interest and personal goals for this position, résumé or curriculum vitae, and contact information for two references to Tait Johansson, Naturalist-in-Residence, at tjohansson@bedfordaudubon.org by no later than Wednesday, August 15, 2022. Please include “2022 HawkWatch Interpreter & Spotter Opportunity” as the email subject line.