VESPER SPARROW CREW LEADER

Pay Rate: $3256/mo.
Duration: ~April 24 – July 28, 2023 (exact dates TBD)
Primary Location: 40 min. east of Ashland, OR

Klamath Bird Observatory (www.klamathbird.org) is seeking to fill a Crew Leader position in our Oregon Vesper Sparrow demography research program. We are contributing to a range-wide study to understand causes of decline in this imperiled subspecies. Primary duties will include nest-searching and monitoring, color-band resighting, and target-netting in meadows of the western Cascades, possibly vegetation surveys, and occasional data entry or other office tasks based in Ashland, OR.

EXPECTATIONS: Primary duties will be nest-searching and monitoring, color-band resighting, target-netting, and data entry. The Crew Leader will also assist in supervising one Intern. Previous nest-searching experience is required, and well-qualified applicants will also have experience with target-netting and bird banding. Western grass and forb identification skills would also be viewed favorably. Training in specific protocols will be provided. Ability to use your own vehicle (typically on paved or improved dirt roads; 4WD is not necessary), and willingness to camp for the duration of the field season with the other crew member are required. Seasonal staff must be willing and able to adhere to health and safety guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the duration of hire. Effective June 21, 2021, and until further notice, KBO will require that all Employees and Volunteer Interns be fully vaccinated for COVID‐19, and be able to provide proof of vaccination status.

QUALIFICATIONS: Previous nest-searching experience and ability to see full range of colors are required. Experience searching for grassland bird nests and bird banding experience are strongly preferred. Skill in western grass and flower species ID is a bonus. Applicants should be prepared to start at dawn, work in the field in all types of weather, carefully follow protocols and meticulously record data, be in good physical condition, and possess good communication skills. Applicants must enjoy the outdoors, and be willing to work in areas with biting insects and the potential to encounter rattlesnakes, black bears, and cougars. It is essential that the applicant be comfortable with camping and working independently in the field (but near rural highways, and within a 40-min. drive of town).

COMPENSATION: The Crew Leader will be paid $3256/month. Transportation to Ashland, OR, and personal field gear (e.g. binoculars, camping gear, rain gear, hiking boots) are the responsibility of the applicant. Applicants must have a car, valid driver’s license, current insurance, and be able to provide their driving record. Use of a personal vehicle for work purposes will be required, and the Crew Leader will be reimbursed for mileage at $0.655/mi.

TO APPLY: Send cover letter including your dates of availability and vehicle type, résumé, and contact info for 3 references by email to Dr. Sarah Rockwell (smr@klamathbird.org). We will review applications on a rolling basis, starting at once and continuing until the position is filled.