Riparian Bird Field Technician (1)

Pay Rate: $1528 biweekly

Duration: ~April 29 or May 6 - July 12, exact dates TBD

Primary Location: Sawyers Bar, CA 

Klamath Bird Observatory (www.klamathbird.org) is seeking to fill a Field Technician position in our bird monitoring and research program at riparian restoration sites along the North and South Forks of the Salmon River in northern California. Field work will start ~April 29 or May 6, and continue until ~July 12 (exact dates to be determined). Some training may take place in Ashland, OR, before field work near Sawyers Bar, CA.

EXPECTATIONS: Primary duties are spot-mapping surveys to delineate territories of riparian songbird species, observing pairs to determine reproductive stage (Vickery Index), vegetation surveys, and data entry. There may also be an opportunity to conduct point count surveys if you have previous experience. Training in specific field protocols will be provided. Ability to provide your own vehicle (high clearance will be helpful but not strictly necessary) and willingness to camp for the duration of the field season will be required. Ability to swim and comfort near rivers is necessary; the Field Technician will use an inflatable kayak and/or waders to access some sites. Expect to work 8-10 hours/day, 5 days/week.

QUALIFICATIONS: Preferred applicants will have previous experience in one or more of the avian field research techniques listed above, and be comfortable identifying common Western riparian and forest birds by sight and sound. Applicants should be prepared to start early (at dawn), work full days in the field in all weather, carefully follow protocols and meticulously record data, be in good physical condition, have a full range of hearing, and possess good communication skills. Applicants must enjoy the outdoors and be willing to work in areas with poison oak, blackberry, and biting insects, with the potential to encounter rattlesnakes, black bears, and cougars. It is essential that the applicant be comfortable and capable of working independently and camping alone for the duration of the season. Rustic, free camping near field sites and excellent swimming holes is available. Transportation to Oregon/California, and personal field gear (e.g. camping gear like tent and stove, boots, raingear) are the responsibility of the applicant. Applicants must have a car, valid driver’s license, relatively clean driving record, and car insurance.

COMPENSATION: Field Technicians will be paid $1528 biweekly. Use of a personal vehicle for work purposes will be necessary, and the Field Technician will be reimbursed for work-related transportation costs at the federal mileage rate.

TO APPLY: Send cover letter including your dates of availability, vehicle type, and where you heard about this job opportunity, résumé, and contact info for 3 references by email to Dr. Sarah Rockwell (smr@klamathbird.org). Hiring will be ongoing until the position is filled. It is Klamath Bird Observatory’s policy to provide a work environment free from unlawful discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, age, expunged juvenile record, performance of duty in a uniformed service, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance. Additional employment opportunities and information about Klamath Bird Observatory can be found at: https://klamathbird.org/about-kbo/careers-and-opportunities/