MAINE SUMMER SEABIRD RESEARCHERS

MAINE SUMMER SEABIRD RESEARCHERS

Organization: USFWS, Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge

Web Address: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/maine_coastal_islands/ 

Location:

Coastal Maine

Duration:

12 to 14 weeks

Job Type:

Island supervisor (Intern)

Job Title:

Maine Summer Seabird Researchers

Job Description:

Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge needs field researchers (island supervisors) to monitor seabird colonies on islands along the Maine coast. May 6 - July 26, 2024 (one position), and May 6 - August 9, 2024 (one position). Seabird species to be studied include common, Arctic, and roseate terns, common eider, black guillemot, and Leach’s storm-petrel.  While living on the islands, researchers will:  conduct an annual census of all nesting seabird species, monitor productivity, observe chick feedings, trap and band adult seabirds, band chicks, read adult bands, and monitor predators and competitors.  Researchers will be living on the island for the entire 12 -14 week period.  Housing provided (cabins), with propane refrigerators, limited solar electricity for lights and computers, but no running water.  Candidates must be at least 18 years old, a US Citizen, have a Social Security Number, and a US Bank account for electronic payments.

Qualifications:

We are looking for people who have or want to gain further leadership skills through training new researchers while managing a seabird colony, have a solid work ethic, can function well independently, yet are comfortable working/living with others on remote islands with limited amenities.  Applicants will work outdoors in variable weather conditions, and need to be able to hike over rugged, uneven terrain and lift and carry 50 pounds.  Prior experience with bird identification, seabird ecology and a valid hunter safety certificate preferred; self-motivation, a strong work ethic, enthusiasm for science, and ability to tackle the rigors of fieldwork (long hours). 

Compensation:

Housing on islands provided, pay range $594 - $634 per week (depending on site assignment and experience)

# of Positions: 2

Application Deadline:

03/10/ 2024

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants should email the following materials to michael_langlois@fws.gov: cover letter with availability (start and end dates), resume and contact information for three references (name, phone number and email address). Please have all materials in one worddoc. or pdf. format titled (first name_last name_application). Consideration of candidates will begin immediately until all positions are filled.  For more information, call Maine Coastal Islands NWR at 207-594-0600 ext. 5113 or check out our website at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/maine_coastal_islands/ and the island research video and blog describing the experiences of previous island researchers at our Friends of Maine Coastal Islands (FOMCI) website https://mainecoastislands.org/island-technicians/.