Seasonal field technician, rails

Seasonal field technician positions with The Ohio State University.

Location: Port Clinton, OH
Start date: approximately mid-March 2019
Salary: $12.00/hr

Description: We are seeking 1-2 field technicians to assist with a Masters project investigating the population ecology and habitat relationships of the Virginia rail and sora at Winous Point Marsh Conservancy in the Lake Erie Coastal Marsh region of Northern Ohio (Sandusky and Ottawa Counties) during the spring and summer. The technicians will provide field assistance with capture, banding, and radio-marking of rails, conduct point-count call playback surveys, track and triangulate radio-marked birds, conduct vegetation surveys, and enter data throughout the field season. Data collection will involve using VHF radio-telemetry, automated radio-telemetry arrays, handheld GPS, call-playback devices, and ATVs/4wd vehicles.

Qualifications: Completed or pursuing a Bachelors degree in Wildlife Ecology, Natural Resources Management, Zoology or related field. Previous experience capturing, handling, and marking birds, conducting auditory point-count marsh bird surveys, knowledge and experience with radio telemetry, and familiarity with Midwestern wetland plants are highly desired. A strong work ethic, ability to think critically and work independently (as well as with others), perform detailed data entry, and troubleshoot equipment failures and other problems as they arise in the field are required. Must be able to work in pre-dawn and post-dusk situations and have the capacity to work outdoors under extreme field conditions (high heat and humidity, rain, biting insects, unstable and muddy wetland terrain, etc.) for long periods of time. Proficiency with the operation of small watercraft (canoe, kayak, small motor-boat, etc.) and a valid U.S. drivers license are also required. 

How to apply: To apply, please send a cover letter including your availability to work, resume, and contact information for three (3) professional and/or academic references in a single MS word or PDF document to hengst.8@osu.edu. Please include RAIL TECH 2019 in the subject heading.

The review of applications will begin January 31, 2019 until filled.

Please feel free to contact Nicole Hengst (hengst.8@osu.edu) with any questions.