Gulf Coast Bird Observatory is recruiting a coastal bird technician to contribute to a project monitoring Wilson’s Plover, Least Tern, and Black Skimmer along the upper Texas coast. The successful applicant will conduct field research activities at multiple sites across coastal Texas from early to mid-April through mid-August 2024 (start and end dates flexible for the right candidate)
Duties and Responsibilities
Surveying for Wilson’s Plover, Least Tern, and Black Skimmer on beaches, dunes, and oyster reefs
Nest searching for and monitoring of Wilson’s Plover and Least Tern
Nest monitoring of Black Skimmer
Assisting with capture and handling of adult and hatchling Wilson’s Plover and Black Skimmer for banding
Posting signage around nesting and loafing areas
Ensuring timely and thorough data entry and inventory of biological samples
Appropriately filling out time sheets and mileage logs
Maintaining equipment as needed
Interacting with refuge managers and volunteers during project surveys and trapping days
Assisting with other programs as needed, including American Oystercatcher and Black Skimmer monitoring by boat, bird camp, and outreach events
Position Requirements
Prior field experience surveying for and monitoring nesting shorebirds
Proficient at identifying shorebirds by sight and comfortable using both binoculars and high-powered scopes
Excellent organizational and data management skills
Strong interpersonal skills to establish and maintain collaborative and effective working relationships with a diverse team
Flexibility to live and work with variable schedules as required for fieldwork
A personal vehicle is required for non-work-related activities
Physical Requirements
Sitting, standing, and/or hiking for extended periods of time
Ability to operate a 4WD vehicle and UTV on beaches (vehicle and UTV are provided, prior experience preferred)
Ability to work in coastal environments
Comfortable working in adverse weather conditions, including cold, wind, rain, high humidity, and heat
Comfortable working around biting insects and venomous snakes
Physical agility to lift 30lbs to shoulder height and carry, push, or pull objects
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.
Salary and Benefits
Salary is $15 per hour. Housing will be provided on site for duration of field season. Pets can be considered on a case by case basis. This is a contract-based position. Additional benefits, including health insurance, are not provided.
Application Details
Individuals that meet some but not all of the position qualifications are encouraged to apply, especially those from traditionally underrepresented groups in the STEM and wildlife ecology disciplines including but not limited to women, people of color, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, and members of indigenous communities.
To apply, please email Dr. Rebecca Bracken at rbracken@gcbo.org with:
Cover letter detailing how the applicant meets the required qualifications, and why the applicant is interested in this position.
Detailed resume with 3 references (please indicate your relationship to each)
Please include “Coastal Bird Technician” in the subject line.
Applications will be reviewed as they are received.