Job Description: Northern Bobwhite and Monarch Butterfly Field Biologist – Fort Cavazos, Texas

Beginning date: March 11th

End date: June 14th

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is seeking to fill 2 full-time experienced seasonal field technician positions for the Adaptive and Integrative Management (AIM) program. The AIM program is responsible for the proactive management of at-risk species and Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) research on the Fort Cavazos Military Installation located in Central Texas. Currently, the program focuses on pollinator and avian research in grassland habitats.

Main Responsibilities:

Technicians will be collecting data for multiple projects throughout the field season. Primary duties will include: (1) Early pre-dawn surveys focused on detecting owls and nightjars with the use of playback recordings. (2) Early morning avian point count surveys focused on Northern Bobwhite. (3) Monarch Joint Venture Integrated Monarch Monitoring Program (IMMP) surveys. Other tasks to be completed throughout the season will include garden maintenance, data entry, and data verification.

Individuals must be able to work both independently and alongside team members in a respectful and positive manner. Have the ability to identify birds by sight and sound. Be physically fit and able to stand/walk for long periods of time in extreme weather conditions. Feel comfortable working during early morning hours. Preference will be given to candidates that possess a knowledge of Central Texas flora and fauna. Pay is $17/hour. Housing is not provided. To apply for the position, please email a single pdf file that includes a cover letter, resume, and 3 references to Charlie Plimpton at aim.fortcavazos@gmail.com. The application deadline is December 31st.

Required Qualifications:

Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology or a related field. Significant experience with conducting field surveys. Excellent observational skills including good vision and hearing. Ability to work independently and interact effectively with project managers, other technicians, and agency personnel if applicable. Applicants must be well organized, provide strict attention to detail, and have great communication skills. Be willing and able to work in potentially difficult field settings including: extreme weather conditions, rough terrain, venomous snakes, and fire ants. Have a valid driver’s license. A background check will be conducted on final candidates.