Snail Kite Nest Monitoring (Tech and Lead)

The Florida Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit is based out of the University of Florida in Gainesville and oversees several ongoing wetland-related research projects. We are seeking a highly motivated six-month lead technician and technician to assist with the weekly nest monitoring of Snail Kites on Lake Okeechobee. The field work involves the extensive use and operation of airboats. Applicants must be willing to work long, flexible hours while maintaining a positive attitude in a hot, humid environment; some days involve working from sunrise to sunset. All of the necessary training will be provided, including airboat operation and maintenance. Duties include behavioral observations, nest searching, handling and banding snail kite nestlings, data entry and maintenance of field equipment and boats. In addition, the Lead technician will be responsible for leading the field work, scheduling, coordinating with the snail kite monitoring crew, and QA/QC data. Applicants must be able to get in and out of boats in deep water, walk up to .3 miles through water, and lift 50lbs. Salary: $14/hour for lead technician and $12/hour for technician + housing. Housing will be provided at either Clewiston or Okeechobee, FL. Applicants should be comfortable living in a field house with only a few other coworkers. A six-month commitment is required and the ideal technician has the opportunity to be employed for longer.  

Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Ecology, Biology, Environmental Science, Wildlife, or a related field. Applicant must have a valid U.S. driver's license and US citizen. Ability to comfortably band and handle wild raptors is preferred, but not necessary. Ability to navigate and comfortably use GPS units is also preferred. This position starts February 1 and continues until June 28 2024. Interested persons should send a resume with a cover letter (stating if it is either the Lead or Tech position to be considered for nest monitoring) and contact information for three references to Brian Jeffery (bjeffe01@ufl.edu). For questions see our website www.snailkite.org or contact Brian Jeffery via email.