Rookery Bay Seasonal Avian Technician

Description: The avian technician position is a part-time position working at Rookery Bay
National Estuarine Research Reserve (RBNERR) in Naples, FL. This position will be assisting
the avian specialist and partnering agency biologists in looking at a wide variety of birds within
the reserve. This position will be assisting with boat-based shorebird/seabird surveys, wading
bird nesting and roosting surveys, and songbird banding during migration. Opportunities to work
with other programs within the reserve are possible as well. Some of these programs include
fisheries/shark science, water quality, environmental education, vegetation and land stewardship.
Duties with this position will vary with the season and may include assisting with educational
programing, posting shorebird/seabird nesting areas, boating, and working with volunteers and
partners.

Qualifications: The applicant will be required to follow a set work schedule, be prepared to
begin work as early as 5 am, be available to work weekends, arrive to work on time, and
complete all assigned tasks in a reasonable amount of time. The applicant must be prepared for
work that may involve being on a kayak while in the presence of alligators, or boat for extended
periods while also exposed to hot weather, bugs, and intense sun. The applicant should have
good data collection and management skills. The applicant must be able to get on and off the
boat and walk up to 3 miles on the beach carrying field equipment. They must have the ability
and willingness to dig holes and install signs at the beginning of shorebird breeding season. The
technician will be required to always conduct safe field practices.
Preferred skills: Ability to identify wading birds, seabird, and shorebirds in the field; ability to
use binoculars and spotting scope: computer experience (Microsoft Office, Access Database,
email, etc.); ability to follow detailed field protocols; ability to manage time appropriately; and
ability to work independently and as part of a team. Songbird banding experience is preferred but
not required.

Internship Dates: January- April
Internship Schedule: 20 hours a week with varying weekly schedule. This schedule will often
include very early mornings.
Number of Intern Positions: One
Compensation: $300/week and housing provided