Seasonal Biological Technician

Overview

The National Audubon Society is a nonprofit conservation organization that protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. We work throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. Audubon’s state, regional, national, and international programs, nature centers, and chapters have an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. As a sentinel species, we recognize that the fate of birds is inextricably tied to the fate of us all.

Audubon has more than 700 staff working across the United States and seven countries in 17 state and regional offices, 41 nature centers, and 23 wildlife sanctuaries. Together as one Audubon, we aspire to alter the course of climate change and habitat loss, leading to healthier bird populations and reversing current trends in biodiversity loss.

Audubon is committed to a culture of workplace excellence, where our talented and diverse staff are deeply engaged, with a strong sense of belonging. The birds Audubon pledges to protect differ in color, size, behavior, geographical preference, and countless other ways. By honoring and celebrating the equally remarkable diversity of the human species, Audubon will bring new creativity, effectiveness, and leadership to our work throughout the hemisphere.

Position Summary

Audubon Connecticut and New York is seeking two full-time Seasonal Biological Technicians to conduct forest breeding bird surveys in the Allegheny Highlands of NY and PA, and northeastern NY. The Seasonal Biological Technicians will conduct point-count and vegetation surveys in forested areas in the spring and early summer. The Technicians will also enter point-count and vegetation survey data. The positions start May 10th and could last until June 30th (dates may vary due to weather conditions). Housing is not provided. Applicants will be accepted until the position is filled.

This position is remote with a preference for being based in the Allegheny Highlands of NY and PA, and Washington County, New York region.

Compensation:

$20.00 / hour

Essential Functions

- Navigate to points using GPS applications and other orienteering methods.

- Correctly identify forest birds by sight or sound.

- Follow a protocol to conduct bird point count surveys and collect detailed information on bird species locations, timing, and movements.

- Follow a protocol to conduct vegetation surveys at point count plots: identify tree and shrub species, including non-native and/or invasive plants; measure tree diameter-at-breast height; estimate canopy cover at multiple levels; calculate basal area using a prism (10 factor) Measuring or assessing additional forest characteristics may be required.

- Accurately record bird and vegetation data on data sheets.

- Meticulously enter data into computer databases.

- Collect, record, summarize, organize, and/or file data using various standardized data collection procedures and equipment.

- Assist with facilitation of monitoring and logistics. This may include planning and scheduling travel to point count locations and timely completion of data entry.

Qualifications and Experience

- Working toward or currently have a bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Conservation, Natural sciences, or related field desired.

- 2-3 years of experience conducting forest bird point-count and vegetation surveys in northeastern forests.

- Willingness and flexibility to work early morning hours.

- Thorough attention to detail and data entry skills.

- Thorough organization and communication skills.

- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

- Must hold a valid driver’s license. This position requires regular travel to point count locations and using rental vehicles (Audubon covers the cost of rental vehicles and will reimburse gas for rental vehicles).

- Ability to work for prolonged periods of time, with or without accommodation, under difficult field conditions such as rugged or muddy terrain, forest undergrowth, high temps/humidity, and biting insects.

EEO Statement

The National Audubon Society is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to a policy of nondiscrimination, inclusion and equal opportunity and actively seek a diverse pool of candidates in this search.

Accessibility Statement

The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users.  If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

COVID Policy

All new hires must be fully vaccinated prior to their start of employment unless they are pre-qualified by HR for exemption.

Apply online: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/5317/seasonal-biological-technician/job