Monarch Butterfly and Northern Bobwhite Field Biologist – Fort Hood, Texas

Beginning date: September 5th 

End date: December 15th 

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is seeking to fill (5) full-time 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 Hood Military Installation located in Central Texas. Currently, the program focuses on pollinator and avian species within grassland habitats.

Main responsibilities:

Field technicians will assist team leaders with a variety of projects and will have the opportunity to experience each of the projects listed for a set time period. (2) technicians will be conducting evening surveys for nightjar species and collecting insect samples. (2) technicians will be responsible for completing early morning Northern Bobwhite covey count surveys and general avian surveys. (1) technician will be responsible for capturing Monarch Butterflies, conducting vegetation cover surveys, and directional flight surveys. All field technicians are required to assist the AIM Pollinator Biologist with capturing Monarch Butterflies and conducting vegetation cover surveys as part of a six-week tagging project.

Individuals must be able to work both independently and alongside team members. Have the ability to identify birds by sound. Be physically fit and able to stand/walk for long periods of time in extreme weather conditions. Feel comfortable working during early morning or late-night 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.forthood@gmail.com.

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. Valid driver’s license. A background check will be conducted on final candidates.