Oak Obligate Birds Field Technician

Description

Cal Poly Humboldt is seeking a field technician to assist on a graduate student project monitoring four oak obligate birds from March – July 2025 (exact dates TBD) near Medford, Oregon. We are looking for a technician that is open to learning new skills, has good communication skills and is receptive to feedback, and has the ability to maintain a positive attitude in a variety of field conditions. Primary responsibilities will include nest searching and monitoring nests of four focal species, conducting vegetation surveys, and entering data.

Project Details

The objective of this project is to determine nest density and reproductive success of four oak obligate birds (Oak Titmouse, Western Bluebird, White-Breasted Nuthatch, and Ash-Throated Flycatcher) in relation to a variety of vegetation characteristics on pre- and post-restored oak woodlands at Table Rocks, Oregon.

Qualifications

Well-qualified applicants should have previous experience nest searching and be familiar with nesting behaviors of breeding birds. Experience with vegetation surveys and peeping cavity nests is ideal. Required qualifications include ability to identify project’s focal species by sight and sound, hike in steep and rugged off-trail conditions, follow standardized field protocols, collect and record meticulous data, communicate effectively, and work independently. Must be comfortable working in areas containing poison oak and ticks.

Compensation

$16/hour, 40 hrs per week (4-6 days a week, with variable hours and starting before sunrise)

Field housing pending, camping costs will be covered during work periods

Minimum Requirements/Qualifications

• Identify focal species by sight and sound
• Ability to hike on uneven terrain up to 8 miles a day
• Capable of working in inclement weather and hot conditions
• Ability to work variable hours and some weekends
• Able to work independently and as a team
• Must hold a valid driver’s license
• High school degree or GED

Preferred qualifications include:

• Prior nest searching experience
• Prior experience with data entry and management
• The ability to navigate to different field sites using a GPS or mobile device
• Desire to learn about avian ecology and behavior

To Apply

Send cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references in a single PDF document to Samantha Webb (snw67@humboldt.edu) with the subject line Oak Birds Technician Position. Applications will be reviewed starting November 30th and will continue until position is filled.

Humboldt State University Sponsored Programs Foundation is an Equal Opportunity /Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected status. More information about HSU SPF’s Equal Employment Opportunity hiring can be found here.

For assistance with the application process, please submit an Accommodation Request Form, which can be found here or contact ADA Coordinator at 707.826.3626 or confidential fax at 707.826.3625. For more information regarding accommodation, you may also visit the HSU Human Resources website at http://www.humboldt.edu/hsuhr.  Individuals in need of a telecommunications relay service may contact the California Relay Service at 877.735.2929 TTY.