Secretive Marshbird Technician

Agency

Louisiana State University

Location

Southeastern Louisiana

Job Category

Temporary/Seasonal Positions

Salary

$12/hr, housing included, per diem (~$50 per work day)

Start Date

02/20/2023

Description

We are seeking four technicians for participation in a marshbird research study within the coastal marshes of southeastern Louisiana. This project will involve helping and working with a PhD student and Masters student to  1) perform point count surveys for secretive marshbirds (SMBs) across Terrebonne, Barataria, Breton Sound, Mississippi River Delta and Pontchartrain basins 2) perform full point count surveys for all bird species at specific locations throughout the study area 3) conduct vegetation surveys and water measurements and 4) help trap, band and tag SMB species for a satellite telemetry study. Housing will be provided at hotels and research stations, with permanent weekend housing at a WMA.  Per diem will be included while on assignment. Successful applicants will attend a one-week training period prior to the start of field work (tentatively set to begin February 20, 2023). These positions will last through mid/end of June, depending on weather. This position will provide ample opportunity to work and network with local landowners, Louisiana State University faculty and staff, and professionals with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Our team is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment. We are fully focused on equality and ensuring an environment that affords respect to all types of peoples.

Qualifications

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, wildlife management, botany, or other natural resource field. Must be able to work in harsh conditions (extreme heat, mud, biting insects, dangerous reptiles) for long periods and maintain a positive and communicative team atmosphere. Must be able to work irregular hours, such as extremely early mornings. Must be proficient at Louisiana wetland bird ID by sight and sound before training commences. All applicants must have a valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications: Previous experience driving and working with boats and trailers is strongly encouraged, but not required. Experience conducting point count surveys, working within marsh or wetland systems and trapping/handling experience of birds is also desirable. How to Apply: Last date to apply: November 4, 2022. To apply, submit the following documents into a single PDF file and send to lsumarshbirds@gmail.com and include a  1) Cover letter describing your experience and how it applies to this project, along with the earliest date when you can begin field work  2) Resume/CV  3) Three professional references with contact information.. Name your PDF document as LastName_FirstName_MarshbirdTech. Review of applications will remain open until all positions are filled. Incomplete applications may be rejected.

Contact Persons

Leah Moran & Aylett Lipford

Contact e-Mail

lsumarshbirds@gmail.com