Research Internship (2)

Job Description:  Gulf Coast Bird Observatory is seeking two (2) research interns for the summer breeding season. One position will start in mid-April and the second will start in early to mid-May; both will end in August. GCBO interns work on a variety of field projects and also spend one to two days a week doing office work. Under supervision of a GCBO biologist, interns will gain experience with:

• Monitoring nesting American Oystercatchers by boat including capturing and banding adults and chicks (February – July),
• Monitoring nesting Black Skimmers by boat including banding chicks (April – September),
• Monitoring nesting Wilson’s Plovers and Least Terns on the beach including capturing and banding adult and chick Wilson’s Plovers (April – July),
• Posting signage around nesting and loafing areas,
• Participating in Beach Nesting Birds outreach events, Spring Fling, monthly bird banding, and other outreach and fundraising events

Equally important is office work which consists of entering field data, volunteer hours, and helping with filing tasks. Interns will also help with various fund raising and other events including Bird Camp (June). GCBO internships are designed to give recent college graduates experience in avian research, conservation, and non-profit management while they pursue a full time job or continuing their education.

Qualifications:  The applicant should be a recent college graduate (within the last two years) with a Bachelor’s degree in a wildlife discipline or be in their last year of study towards a degree in a wildlife discipline. All applicants must have demonstrated a desire to pursue a career in avian research and/or conservation through prior experience as a volunteer or work-related employment. Applicant must be comfortable viewing birds through binoculars and high-powered scopes, standing and walking outside along long stretches of beach habitat, riding in UTV or 4WD truck while looking for shorebirds, and monitoring from a small boat in Texas bays. Weather conditions vary and may include cold, strong winds, rain and storms, extreme heat, and high humidity – biting insects and venomous snakes may be prevalent. Candidate must be able to physically and mentally work in these conditions.  A personal vehicle is required for non-work-related activities.

Compensation: Housing is provided onsite at GCBO headquarters. Pets can be considered on a case by case basis. While we do not offer interns a salary, we can offer a $200/week stipend.

Application Instructions:  Send cover letter, resume, 3 references, and unofficial college transcript to:  Dr. Rebecca Bracken at rbracken@gcbo.org.  Application deadline for the summer internship is March 31st.