Spring Bird Bander

Job Description

Bird Lab is seeking one seasonal Bird Bander to assist with avian research in southwestern Pennsylvania from March 28, 2023 - June 04, 2023 (10 weeks). The operation is based in Pittsburgh and the primary duty of this position is banding birds with mist nets.

There are three banding sites defined by various levels of human disturbance (urban, suburban, and rural). Each site is visited twice per week and has 12 nets; there are high volume days at each of them. The project affords the candidate an excellent opportunity to work alongside a North American Banding Council (NABC) certified Trainer in various regional ecosystems.

Check out birdlab.org for more information about the banding program and the organization.

Expectations

A strong candidate will be able to:

• Carry a 35 lb pack to the banding station and set-up mist nets (when required)
• Hike/walk 6-12 mi/day in hilly (sometimes muddy) terrain during a 5 hour banding day
• Extract and band birds (including identifying age and sex)
• Work outside, sometimes in uncomfortable or inclement weather (hot, cold, rain, snow squall)
• Assist with banding demos
• Participate in related duties such a veg trimming and plant surveying
• Proof and digitize data
• Work independently and part of a team

An ideal candidate will have:

• BA or BS in biology, environmental studies, or a related field
• At least two season’s of banding experience 
• Experience and knowledge to identify, age, and sex most commonly occurring passerines found in the eastern United States

Appointment Details

Pay is $725 per week (for 10 weeks) working 5-6 days per week. Each of the three sites are visited twice per week and the nets are opened at sunrise and operated for 5 hours weather dependent. Arrival at the sites varies but will be in advance of sunrise to allow for banding table and net setup.

Housing in the city of Pittsburgh can be provided at no cost to the field technician or a $650/month housing stipend can be added to the salary.

The bander will need their own vehicle to reach the sites most days but carpooling will be possible as well. Mileage will be reimbursed.

To apply

Please email the following to tweet@birdlab.org:

• CV/resume
• Three references including email, phone number, and title
• Cover letter detailing your experience banding birds

Other info

Employment is contingent upon completion of a successful background check and establishment of identity and verification of employment eligibility as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

Bird Lab does not discriminate in employment on the bases of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state and/or local laws.