Marsh Bird Field Technician (1 position)

Marsh Bird Field Technician (1 position)
Agency: University of Illinois, Illinois Natural History Survey, Prairie Research Institute Location: Mississippi and Alabama
Job Category: Seasonal
Salary: $15/hour, 40-50 hours a week, with time and a half pay for any overtime
Dates: March 7 to July 15 2022
Late Date to Apply: ASAP

Description:
Marsh birds along the Gulf Coast, particularly the federally threatened Eastern Black Rail (Laterallus jamaicensis), have experienced tremendous declines in population with many extirpated from much of their range. The secretive nature of marsh bird species, however, have left many understudied. This gap in knowledge makes management of these elusive marsh birds difficult. As part of the larger NOAA Firebird Project (https://noaafirebird.home.blog/project- details/), one technician will assist a Ph.D. student in investigating questions relating to the response of marsh birds of conservation concern to prescribed fire practices. Duties will include 1) monitoring predator communities using game cameras, 2) searching for and monitoring nests, 3) collecting and identifying macroinvertebrates, and 4) monitoring marsh birds using automated recording devices. Additional duties may include habitat surveys, vegetation sampling, data entry, etc. The position will run from early March through July. Housing will also be provided.

Required Minimum Qualifications:
Motivated individuals with an interest in avian ecology and conservation, working towards, or with a completed bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife science, or another related field are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be able to work in challenging conditions including extreme heat and humidity, lift and carry heavy equipment (50-lbs) across difficult terrain, biting insects, and other hazardous wildlife. Candidates should be able to identify, or quickly learn, marsh bird species by sight and sound.

Preferred Qualifications:
Previous experience working with marsh birds and/or threatened and endangered species. Experience with camera trapping, nest searching in coastal marsh systems, and insect trapping. Familiarity with GIS and GPS units is a plus. A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record is required.

Contact Person:
Please send a brief cover letter listing your interest and qualifications, a CV, and the names, email addresses, and phone numbers of 3 professional references to Lauren Monopoli (lfm4@illinois.edu) with your name and “2022 Firebird Technician” in the subject line.