Seasonal Shorebird Technician- Nantucket

About the position/program:
The Trustees of Reservations is seeking an individual responsible for monitoring, research, and management activities for nesting and migratory shorebirds on the island of Nantucket. The Trustees are responsible for shorebird management on the Coskata- Coatue Wildlife Refuge, a 1,117 acre barrier beach extending to the northern most reaches of the island. This idyllic and diverse beach complex boasts unique maritime juniper forests- the largest of its kind in New England-, the island’s largest saltmarsh, an old growth maritime oak forest, and extensive dune systems which provide refuge for countless species year-round. At the northern most tip of the refuge lies a breeding colony of Atlantic grey seal and typically pelagic species such as northern gannets, great shearwaters, and humpback whale can be seen mere feet from shore. Together, these beaches provide critical habitat for several threatened species but also serve as a popular outdoor recreation destination. This is a seasonal, full-time position supervised by the Coastal Ecologist and Stewardship Manager and is expected to begin in April and continue into August.
 
Salary Range: $17.5/hr - $19/hr

Essential Functions: 

• Perform daily monitoring and management activities for breeding piping plovers, American oystercatchers, and several species of tern, including collecting data on nest location, nest protection, and chick monitoring following established protocols.  
• Compose weekly reports on the status of beach nesting birds and beach access to be distributed organization wide. 
• Install, maintain, and remove symbolic fencing and signage used to protect breeding and migratory shorebirds and their habitats. 
• Compile and report productivity data for state piping plover, American oystercatcher, and tern censuses and complete an end of season internal report. 
• Assist with the collection of post-breeding migratory shorebird abundance and distribution data. 
• Occasionally interact and educate visitors on shorebird and barrier beach ecology. 
• Assist with targeted predator control and monitoring efforts. 
• Help ensure that shorebird data is accurate, organized, and up to date. 

Qualifications: 

• Coursework in wildlife biology, ecology, zoology, environmental science, ornithology, or related experience. 
• The ability to identify birds.  
• At least 3 months of previous field experience (does not need to be shorebird related experience). 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills. 
• The ability to work independently and closely with other staff and the public. 

Preferred Applicants Will Have Experience With:

• Beach-nesting shorebirds and identifying them by sight and sound. 
• Biological data collection and data management. 
• Wildlife tracking. 
• Working in coastal environments, and awareness of threats to beach nesting birds (e.g., predation, dogs, and human disturbance).  
• Operating off-road vehicles. 

Other Requirements: 

• Must regularly communicate with the Coastal Ecologist and property management staff to ensure the successful implementation of our shorebird protection program.  
• The ability to work outdoors daily, and at times, under rigorous conditions. 
• The ability to perform physically strenuous duties, such as hiking long distances on the beach. 
• The ability to lift/carry 30 pounds. 
• The ability to work weekends, holidays, and occasional irregular hours. 
• Driving on the beach is an essential function of this job, a valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record are required as outlined in The Trustees’ driving policy. Prior beach driving experience is not required, training will be provided. 
• A satisfactory criminal background check (CORI). 

Apply here: Seasonal Shorebird Tech- Nantucket