Grasshopper Sparrow Field Technicians (3) – Florida
Agency
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Location
Kenansville, FL
Job Category
Temporary/Seasonal Positions
Salary
$13.00/hr (40hrs/week)
Start Date
03/19/2018
Last Date to Apply
12/15/2017
Description
Three experienced seasonal field technicians needed to conduct demographic research and nest protection of the critically endangered Florida grasshopper sparrow with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (19 March-30 August 2018). Technicians will assist with collection of important breeding season data on a rapidly declining population of endemic Florida grassland birds. These positions are an exciting opportunity to protect and conserve one of the rarest birds in the United States while contributing to a large-scale demographic research project. Florida’s dry prairie offers breathtaking grassland sunrises and frequent encounters with some of Florida’s finest wildlife. A video highlighting the project can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-UX2_QCPzI and recent press coverage can be found here: http://www.npr.org/2016/10/20/498736786/last-gasp-to-save-the-florida-grasshopper-sparrow-from-extinction and here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/racing-to-save-the-florida-grasshopper-sparrow/ Duties include: Conducting point count surveys, resighting color-banded individuals, collecting samples for disease analysis, banding nestlings, finding and monitoring grassland bird nests with nest cameras, protecting nests with predator deflection fencing, conducting behavioral observations, data entry and equipment maintenance. Pay is $13.00/hr (40hrs/week), with air-conditioned shared housing and 4x4 vehicles provided on site.
Qualifications
Preferred candidates should have extensive experience searching for and monitoring grassland bird nests. Previous experience trapping and banding passerines and resighting color-bands using a spotting scope is also desired. Tolerance for high temperatures and extreme humidity is essential, as is the ability to live happily in a rural setting and in close quarters with other field researchers. Applicant must have a valid U.S. driver's license and be authorized to work in the United States. Previous experience driving four-wheel drive trucks and ATVs in wet conditions is also preferred. Dedication, sensitivity, and attention to detail when working with a critically endangered bird is a must. To Apply: If interested, please send a brief cover letter, CV and the contact information for three professional references to Dr. Erin Ragheb (Erin.Ragheb AT MyFWC.com). Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.
Contact Person
Dr. Erin Ragheb
Contact eMail