Red-winged Blackbird Field Research Assistants

Job description:

The seasonal research assistants will work along with a PhD student based at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and contribute directly to the doctoral research. Job responsibilities include nest search for red-winged blackbirds, nest monitoring, territory estimation, conducting playback experiments, collecting behavioral data, transcribing data, data entry, deployment and maintenance of field equipment, and assisting with other field activities as needed. Daily work would entail driving to field sites, behavioral observations, nest searches, playback experiments, and data entry.

Usual working routine will be 40 hours per week, typically 6days/week from 8am-2pm. Working days and hours may vary depending on weather and other factors. 

Working conditions:

Daily work will entail walking up to 3 miles (carrying equipment) in marsh habitat (fresh cattails and water) in hot, buggy conditions. Work will typically begin in the early morning. This job involves spending long amounts of time in cattails which comes with risk of exposure to ticks. Depending on field site, you may also encounter mosquitos and other insects, and snakes (non-venomous bullsnake, garter snakes). Training to reduce exposure risks will be provided.

Housing and anticipated pay range:

The biweekly paycheck will be rated at $15/hr maximum. Total compensation for 8 weeks will be $4800. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.

You will be staying at the Cedar Point Biological Station for the duration of this job. Food will be provided at the station. Your housing and meals will be paid for. More information about life at the station can be found at: https://cedarpoint.unl.edu/

Preferred Qualifications:

·        Background in biological sciences or related fields

·        Previous field work and experience with birds is preferred

·        Experience working in excel sheets and ability to learn new software

·        Ability to take direction, work independently, a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and a desire to gain experience

·        Excellent communication skills

Required Qualifications:

·        Valid driving license is required. Mileage will be reimbursed for your vehicle but you will be required to drive station’s 4WD pickup trucks occasionally

·        Outdoor safety hazard awareness. Please be aware of the working conditions before you apply.

To apply:

Please send an email to Faiza Hafeez fhafeez2@huskers.unl.edu with:

·        Cover letter

·        Resume

We will be reviewing applicants as we receive applications. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.