Shorebird Research Technician

Start/End Date: Approximately July 5th – Aug. 31st, 2023

Notice: We are hiring 1 field technician in support of a graduate project focused on assessing the impacts of insecticides on shorebirds and invertebrates in North and South Dakota.

Description: Technician will assist a graduate student in capturing, banding, and collecting blood from thirteen shorebird species of conservation concern. Fieldwork duties include: 1) setting up nets and capturing shorebirds, 2) banding shorebirds, 3) shorebird identification, 4) collecting benthic invertebrate samples, 5) quantifying shorebird behavior, and 6) measuring a variety of wetland characteristics (e.g., area, depth, vegetation structure, etc.). Additional duties include shorebird abundance surveys, plant identification, communicating with landowners, and data entry. Technicians will need to work early morning hours and may need to work weekends. Field lodging is provided and includes shared bunkhouses, motels, and camping.

Salary: $12-$15/hr, depending on experience; Full-time (40 hrs/week)

Qualifications: Candidate must be self-motivated, enjoy working outdoors, have a positive attitude, and be able to work in teams of two. They must also be willing to drive long hours looking for sites, and work, wade, and sit in muddy wetlands for extended periods watching shorebirds through binoculars and spotting scopes. Preferred: At least one year of fieldwork experience and have (or are working towards) an undergraduate degree in wildlife or related field. Ideal: Banding, birding, wetland, and invertebrate sampling experience. Successful candidate must have a valid driver’s license and be able to pass a criminal background check.

Contact: Applicants should submit a cover letter demonstrating your interest and experience, resume, and contact information for three references to Shelby McCahon at smccahon@uidaho.edu.

Capturing Shorebirds Fieldwork Flyer.pdf