Position Summary

In much of Florida, Least Terns (and in some cases American Oystercatchers, Black Skimmers, and Gull-billed Terns) nest on flat, gravel rooftops for lack of undisturbed beach-nesting habitat. Audubon, in partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), has pioneered techniques to improve the productivity of these roofs, working to “chick proof” them prior to the nesting season, and to create volunteer support groups to return fallen chicks to their rooftop nests.

The Rooftop Biologist will be responsible for: surveying historic rooftop nesting sites in Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota counties to determine whether they are active during the nesting season, “chick proof” rooftops prior to the nesting season, coordinate volunteer groups to monitor sites and return fallen chicks to rooftop nests, educate building managers and rooftop-affiliated businesses in regards to rooftop-nesting birds, coordinate with FWC to manage emergency rooftop repairs during the breeding season, and coordinate with FWC’s SW Regional Shorebird Biologist and Law Enforcement Officers as needed to protect rooftop-nesting birds.

This is a full-time, grant-funded position through 2020 with possibility of extension with subsequent grants and will be remotely based in the Tampa Bay region of Florida.

Essential Functions

Determine active/inactive status of historic rooftop nesting sites during the nesting season.
Conduct outreach to building managers and where feasible assist building managers with chick-proofing rooftops including installation of fencing material or drain covers on rooftops.
Survey rooftops to collect demographic data and enter data into the Florida Shorebird Database.
Comfortably and safely work on rooftops at various building heights.
Recruit, train, schedule, and manage volunteer “chick checkers” to support rooftop colonies.
Plan and conduct community outreach efforts such as public presentations and tabling events to educate the public about Florida’s focal shore/seabird species.
Collaborate with Audubon communications manager to raise the profile of rooftop-nesting bird conservation through traditional and new media.
Actively participate in regional working groups and partner workshops including delivering periodic technical presentations.
Recognize building owners and managers for good stewardship of rooftop colonies.
Manage and enter data into Audubon records system and Florida Shorebird Database.
Conduct non-breeding shorebird surveys as directed by supervisor from September through April on regional beaches
May have opportunities to be involved with local banding of shorebirds and seabirds.
Assist with other shorebird conservation and survey efforts and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field required; Master’s degree may substitute for one year professional experience.
Minimum 4 year/seasons demonstrated expertise in shorebird and seabird identification and performing surveys a must; Least Tern management experience preferred.
Superior communication skills and demonstrated ability to work independently and with multiple stakeholder groups.
Experience with banding and handling shorebirds and seabirds preferred.
Experience recruiting, training, and managing volunteers or comparable environmental education experience required.
Ability to think strategically and creatively, while managing multiple tasks, meeting deadlines and operating in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Familiarity with coastal conservation lands of southwest Florida a plus.
Experience with setting up and operating cameras including mobile (GoPro type), game cameras, and outdoor surveillance systems preferred.
Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions, climbing ladders, and the willingness to work on rooftops at varying heights is required.
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
Must possess a clean driving record, be able to lift up to 35lbs, with or without a reasonable accommodation, and be able to walk 2-4 miles on beach carrying spotting scope, binoculars, and daypack.
Demonstrated commitment to conservation and the mission of the National Audubon Society.