Avian Field Technicians

at University of Massachusetts, Amherst

Website:
http://www.umass.edu/nebarrensfuels/ma_barrens/montague/index.html

Location:
Montague, MA

Duration:
3 Months

Job Type:
Seasonal

Application Deadline:
03/18/2012

Job Description:
Needed April 25th to mid-July (end date is somewhat flexible) to assist with a study on the ecology and conservation of scrub-shrub birds (primarily Prairie Warblers) in an actively managed pitch pine-scrub oak ecosystem located in Montague, Massachusetts. Pitch pine-scrub oak barrens are a unique ecosystem that provides habitat for a distinct wildlife community, including Whip-poor-wills and Hognose Snakes. Tasks will include territory mapping and re-sighting color marked birds, searching for and monitoring nests, conducting vegetation and insect surveys, target mist-netting and data entry. Applicants will also have a chance to band nestlings, and catch hognose snakes as part of a side project. Applicants will be working at times in very dense, shrubby vegetation. Work schedule will be 5-6 days a week; usually 6 days a week during the first month of the season. Pay rate will be approximately $1100-1200/month DOE. Housing is not provided, however housing can be found in the Umass, Amherst area (15 minutes from study site).

To Apply:
Please send a cover letter, resume/CV, and contact information (name, phone number, and email address) for 3 references to MIKE AKRESH (EM: mike.akresh AT gmail.com). Applications will be accepted March 15 2012 or until positions are filled.

Qualifications:
We prefer applicants with previous re-sighting and nest-searching experience with passerine birds. As we will be recording birds’ arrival dates, being able to start working when birds arrive in late April is highly preferred. Applicants must have a strong work ethic, be able to work independently, be in good physical condition, and be able to tell good jokes.

Number of Openings:
2 Back to the Top