Field Assistant/Educator

at Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center

Website:
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/scbi/MigratoryBirds/Research/Neighborhood_Nestwatch/default.cfm

Location:
Washington, DC

Duration:
3 months

Job Type:
Seasonal

Application Deadline:
03/20/2012

Job Description:
FIELD ASSISTANTS needed, one 9 April-31 July 2012, others 1 May through 31 for avian ecology-based environmental outreach project in urban areas of Washington DC. This is an incredible opportunity to reach underserved citizens using birds to convey an important environmental message. As an offshoot of the National Zoo’s Neighborhood Nestwatch program (http://nationalzoo.si.edu/scbi/MigratoryBirds/Research/Neighborhood_Nestwatch/default.cfm) this project will conduct bird banding and outreach activities directly within urban schools and communities. In so doing the goals of environmental education and further research into the ecology of birds in urban/suburban environments will be accomplished. This work requires an ability to communicate environmental messages to underserved citizens as well as capture and band birds using mist nets in highly disturbed habitats. Ability to work long hours from early morning onward six days per week carrying out a wide variety of field tasks essential. Daily car travel within the hot, humid Washington, DC area, meticulous data entry, scheduling backyard banding visits, and other office-related tasks also involved. Salary $1600/mo. Vehicles for research activities provided as well as housing in proximity to research base.

To Apply:
Please send cover letter, CV, and the names and updated contact information of three references to BOB REITSMA, Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, National Zoological Park, PO Box 37012 MRC 5503, Washington, D.C. 20013-7012, or to reitsmar@si.edu (e-mail preferred indicating “Urban Nestwatch” as desired project).

Qualifications:
Strong applicants will have experience in educating the public as well as capturing, color-banding, and re-sighting birds. Occasional participation in regular Nestwatch activities likely. Finding nests, projecting infectious enthusiasm, and being an independent and pleasant team member desired.

Number of Openings:
3, one position to begin 9 April, 2012 Back to the Top