Shorebird Biologist - Audubon (Carrabelle, FL)

Carrabelle Shorebird Biologist

Audubon Florida

Carrabelle, FL

APPLY ONLINE AT: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/5581/biologist%2c-carrabelle-shorebird/job

Position Summary

Audubon Florida seeks a Biologist, Carrabelle Shorebird with boat handling experience to support beach-nesting season and nonbreeding season bird conservation work in the Eastern Florida Panhandle. This role is a fully remote position based out of the Southern Franklin County region and you must live in and/or be able drive to the Southern Franklin County, Florida region. The Biologist will complete the majority of work on and around beaches and islands including Little St. George Island, Dog Island, Flag Island Critical Wildlife Area, St. George Island Causeway Critical Wildlife Area, Lanark Critical Wildlife Area, Alligator Pt Critical Wildlife Area and other sites as assigned. This is a 40-hour, full-time position.

From February to August, or later if nesting activity continues (breeding season), the Biologist will be responsible for performing beach-nesting bird monitoring and protection work with Apalachicola partner primarily in Franklin County, Florida. Responsibilities include the following, in addition to other as-needed duties:

• Posting symbolic fencing around beach-nesting bird sites and maintaining said posting.

• Monitoring nest sites on a regular basis for evidence of disturbance or predation.

• Documenting nonbreeding Piping, Snowy, Wilson’s plovers, and Red Knots, and other focal species.

• Performing bird surveys to collect demographic data according to specified protocol, and banded bird resighting as directed; and

• Protecting sites from disturbance through predation management and game camera monitoring in cooperation with site managers and partner agencies, educating beachgoers about coastal bird species while encouraging compliance with posted areas, and engaging in outreach to user groups through presentations at organizational meetings.

From mid-August through mid-February (“non-breeding season”), they will be responsible for completing bimonthly winter coastal bird surveys and banded bird resighting focusing on Red Knot, Piping Plover, and Snowy Plover, primarily in Franklin County, Florida, and elsewhere in the Florida Panhandle as needed; assisting with volunteer recruitment, management, and training; carrying out equipment maintenance; and giving public presentations and beach walks as outreach to key user groups that may impact conservation of coastal birds in the Florida Panhandle.

Compensation:

$43,000-$48,000 / year

Essential Functions

• In communication with the Panhandle Shorebird Project Manager and close collaboration with Apalachicola Shorebird Biologist, complete all site surveys.

• Post symbolic fencing as required or immediately when new nest sites are located. Adjust posted nest-site boundaries as necessary throughout the season and remove posting materials and field equipment at the end of the season or in advance of severe storm warnings.

• Conduct regular monitoring for nesting progress, predation, and disturbance according to the terms of Audubon’s contractual requirements.

• Implement rigorous data collection protocols to ensure accuracy and reliability of data.

• Plan and conduct surveys for shorebirds and seabirds at remote, island sites under often challenging weather conditions.

• Survey assigned sites on a regular basis to collect avian demographic data and enter data into the Florida Shorebird Database or other database as required and in a timely manner.

• Plan and conduct community outreach efforts such as public presentations, tabling events, and beach walks while educating and engaging the public about Florida’s focal shore/seabird species.

• Actively participate in regional working groups and partner workshops including delivering technical presentations.

• Assist with other shorebird conservation and survey efforts.

• Regularly provide real-time data to partners conducting predation management in or near bird nesting sites.

• Use game cameras or other technology to collect data.

• Report on bird mortalities and implement disturbance minimization methods at nesting sites or migratory bird congregation sites.

• Regularly contribute to technical reports, annual progress reports media articles or other publications.

• Operate 4WD vehicles, UTVs, boats, and trailers.

• Oversee the maintenance needs of assigned program vehicles, trailers, boats and UTVs.

• Mentor and manage volunteers in monitoring, surveying, and stewardship activities.

• Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in biology, wildlife ecology or related field required.

• 3 years’ demonstrated expertise in bird identification and performing demographic bird surveys using rigorous protocols is required.

• Demonstrate experience trailering, launching and operating motorboats in marine conditions or equivalent experience in freshwater environments is required.

• Kayaking experience in nearshore marine or open-water conditions is a plus. Experience with setting up and operating cameras, including mobile (GoPro type), game cameras and remote detection technologies is a plus.

• Demonstrated success with accurate recording of field-collected data and data entry using MS Excel, MS Access, or online web portal data entry is required.

• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills that can be adapted to reach a wide range of individuals and used to build consensus. Ability to synthesize and communicate technical and complex information to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Must have strong organizational and analytical skills and great attention to detail.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Must have experience working with partners and other interested parties to complete projects.

• Must have experience presenting to groups and working with volunteers.

• Excellent judgment, problem-solving skills, and decision-making skills, with a high degree of integrity in all deliverables.

• Ability to think strategically and creatively while managing multiple tasks, meeting deadlines, and operating in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs., and able to traverse up to 5 miles on the beach carrying spotting scope, binoculars, and daypack with or without accommodation.

• Demonstrated experience with performing field work in challenging coastal conditions year-round.

• Must be able to work long days, weekends, and holidays as needed, in Florida summer field conditions.

• Ability to effectively manage time and complete tasks independently with minimal oversight.

• Familiarity with Florida coastal bird management and coastal conservation lands of the Florida Panhandle a plus.

• Valid driver's license required.

• A genuine passion for conservation and for the mission of the National Audubon Society is a must.

Shorebird Program Project Manager - Audubon (Panhandle, FL)

Panhandle Shorebird Program Project Manager
Audubon Florida
Panhandle, FL

APPLY ONLINE AT: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/5575/project-manager%2c-panhandle-shorebird-program/job?

Position Summary

Audubon Florida seeks a Project Manager for the Panhandle Florida Shorebird Program. Reporting to Audubon Florida’s Director of Bird Conservation, this position is responsible for expansive coastal bird monitoring, management, and research in partnership with the state agency, and other land managers in the Florida Panhandle. This includes monitoring, management, and stewardship of beach-nesting bird sites; winter monitoring and surveys of coastal birds; monitoring, management, and stewardship of rooftop nesting sites; outreach to beach professionals and law enforcement enlisting their help in coastal bird protection and efforts to reduce predation management.

In close collaboration with the Director of Bird Conservation, Audubon staff and partners at the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Project Manager will manage implementation of Audubon's coastal conservation work in the Panhandle. This role is a remote position based out of a home office in the Central Florida Panhandle. This position is 40 hours a week.

This is a full-time, grant-funded position available approximately through December 31, 2032. Funding is provided by the Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund (GEBF). Additional funding may be available to extend the term of employment beyond December 2032.

Compensation:

$54,000-$64,000 / year

Essential Functions

• Successfully oversee the Audubon's GEBF-funded coastal conservation project in the Panhandle.

• Hire train, mentor, and supervise three full-time staff and one seasonal staff: two Eastern Panhandle Shorebird Biologists, one Western Panhandle Stewardship Coordinator, and one Seasonal Shorebird Technician at Tyndall Air Force Base.

• Support the Western Panhandle Stewardship Coordinator in hiring, training, mentoring, and supervising three additional seasonal stewards.

• Regularly assist with field work and stewarding as necessary to understand and troubleshoot issues.

• Help to monitor and steward sites, especially in the Central Panhandle.

• Work with state agency staff and other key partners to successfully implement shorebird conservation and management in the Florida Panhandle.

• Work with Audubon's Communications Director and the press to communicate Audubon's work to the public through traditional and new media.

• Oversee the deployment and maintenance needs of program vehicles, trailers, boats and UTVs.

• Coordinate and organize agendas with Audubon partners at semiannual meetings of the Florida Panhandle Shorebird Working Group as needed.

• Coordinate with local and state law enforcement to provide training opportunities for officers and enlist officers’ support to reduce disturbance and respond to wildlife violations.

• Regularly contribute to technical reports, annual progress reports media articles or other publications

• Coordinate reporting and billing for NFWF grant project with supervisor and grant staff.

• Other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in wildlife biology or related field required; Master's degree preferred.

• A minimum of 5 years' project and grant management experience required, to include a minimum of 2 years' demonstrated experience leading a team and managing volunteers.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently with a team, and with external partners.

• Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills that can be adapted to reach a wide range of individuals and used to build consensus. Ability to synthesize and communicate technical and complex information to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Must be able to move 30 lbs., and traverse long distances miles on beach in summer field conditions carrying spotting scope, binoculars, and daypack with or without accommodation.

• Experience with boating, kayaking, and trailering equipment strongly preferred.

• Experience with coastal bird conservation, as well as a certification in project management strongly desired.

• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to pass background check to access Tyndall Air Force Base facilities.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

• Availability to travel (30% time), work occasional nights and weekends when needed.

• Familiarity with coastal conservation lands of the Florida Panhandle a plus.

• A genuine passion for conservation and for the mission of the National Audubon Society is required.

Mid Pinellas County Anchor Steward - Audubon (Pinellas County, FL)

APPLY ONLINE AT: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/5567/mid-pinellas-county-anchor-steward/job

Position Summary

Audubon Florida supports management of beach-nesting birds at many locations along the Gulf Coast and Northeast Atlantic Coast of Florida by surveying, posting, stewarding, and protecting nesting areas from disturbance. In order to more effectively monitor and protect nesting shorebirds, Audubon is hiring a seasonal Anchor Steward to work at beach-nesting bird sites within Pinellas County, Florida. Sites requiring stewardship may include Redington Shores, St. Pete Beach, and Clearwater Beach. Nesting species may include Black Skimmer, Least Tern, and American Oystercatcher. The primary responsibility of the Anchor Steward is to organize and train volunteers to minimize disturbance by conducting public outreach near shore/seabird nesting areas and to help monitor nesting.

This is a seasonal position working 20 hours per week to include weekends and the following holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, if nesting persists until the latter holiday. The position is anticipated to begin April 29, 2024 and continue through the end of nesting season, to be determined in consultation with supervisor. Nesting may persist into late August but can end early in the event of a catastrophic event or other total loss of nesting activity.

This position is based on-site within Pinellas County, Florida.

Compensation:

$15.00 / hour

Essential Functions

Under the direction of Audubon’s Project Manager for Bird Stewardship, the Mid Pinellas County Anchor Steward will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Monitor nesting birds and conduct minimum weekly counts of nests, chicks, and fledged young of each nesting species; report data in the Florida Shorebird Database and Excel spreadsheets as directed by the supervisor.

• Assist site managers and partners with installing symbolic fencing around new nest areas as needed.

• Conduct public outreach at beach-nesting sites on weekends and holidays, to target maximum number of beachgoers and prevent nest disturbance. Hours may run longer or change as needed, and overtime is anticipated on holiday weekends.

• Assist with recruitment of volunteers; train and schedule volunteers to chaperone nesting birds and to conduct public outreach at nesting sites on weekends and holidays.

• Work closely and communicate with site managers and other Audubon staff, external partners, and volunteers in a positive and professional manner at all times.

Qualifications and Experience

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong data collection and organizational skills.

• Ability to recruit, train, support, and schedule volunteers.

• Works well independently and with other staff, partners, and volunteers.

• Capability of carrying field equipment in Florida summer field conditions while traversing up to 5 miles on sandy beaches, with or without accommodation.

• Ability to move 30 lbs., with or without accommodation.

• Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation to complete assigned tasks.

• Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and some evenings.

• Familiarity with Pinellas County beaches preferred.

• Previous experience with shorebird and seabird monitoring and stewardship is helpful, but not required.

• Must have a positive and diplomatic attitude.

• Must have an interest in conservation and passion for the mission of the National Audubon Society.

OPS Fisheries and Biological Scientist III - FWC (Fort Myers)

Requisition No: 818944 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Fisheries & Biological Scientist III - 77900008

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77900008 

Salary:  $23.44 an hour 1920 hours a fiscal year 

Posting Closing Date: 01/07/2024 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

Employment contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Title: OPS Biological Scientist III

Working Title  Wildlife Assistance Biologist

Salary: $23.44/hour, 40 Hours a week, not to exceed 1,920 hours per fiscal year

Position number: 77900008

Broadband Level: 19-1023-03

Level of Education: Prefer a bachelor's degree with a major in wildlife science, ecology, natural resources, or similar discipline.

Region:  Southwest or Northeast

County: Lee (Flexible)

Working hours: 40hrs/week 8-5, M-F, some nights and weekend work may be required. Overnight travel may be required. After 6 months of successful employment this position will have the potential to telework up to 2 days per week upon approval.

List of any subordinates supervised: None

Residency requirement: None

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Division: Habitat and Species Conservation

Section: Wildlife Impact Management

Sub-section: Wildlife Assistance Program

Address: (TBD) Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 1922 Victoria Ave, Unit B, Ft Myers, FL. 33901

Supervisor: Jayne Johnston, Senior Wildlife Assistance Biologist

It is anticipated that 2 positions will be hired as a Wildlife Assistance Biologist through this advertisement.

Minimum Qualifications:

Prefer a bachelor's degree with a major in wildlife science, ecology, natural resources, or similar discipline. Preference will be given to applicants with at least 2 years wildlife-related professional experience and experience with wildlife-related education and outreach

In addition to submitting a completed state application via People First, applicants are required to submit a current resume and a cover letter highlighting their qualifications and expressing their interest in the position.

Cover letters and resumes shall be uploaded to the People First System.

Applications without a cover letter and resume are deemed incomplete and will not be considered.

Click HERE to see the full announcement

Description of Position:

The Wildlife Impact Management Section (WIM) is seeking an energetic and motivated candidate to serve as a Wildlife Assistance Biologist. The incumbent serves as a Wildlife Assistance Biologists by providing information and technical assistance to the public, other agencies, and other Commission staff about wildlife issues including human-wildlife conflict resolution strategies. Assistance may be provided over the phone, in person, or in writing. Work outside of normal business hours is generally not required. Some fieldwork may occur but is not a regular component of this position. The successful candidate will occasionally represent the Wildlife Assistance Program at outreach events, presentations to stakeholders, and site visits to provide technical assistance, conflict mitigation strategies and equipment as necessary. The Wildlife Assistance Biologist works across multiple Divisions and Sections within FWC to:  

• Coordinate management of conflict wildlife situations including those involving bears, coyotes, birds, nonnatives and other wildlife species.

• Network to establish clear communication across the agency about emerging wildlife issues.

• Assist with the implementation of response protocols for to human-wildlife conflict situations in coordination with other FWC programs including the Division of Law Enforcement.

Responsibilities include, but are not necessarily limited to the following:

• Provide technical assistance to the public and other agencies on means to address human-wildlife conflicts and to promote strategies to coexist with wildlife.

• Maintain familiarity with prevalent conflict wildlife issues and continually identify and share best technical assistance practices and protocols as required.

• Provide coverage for other regional Wildlife Assistance Biologists as needed.

• Maintain an accurate and thorough daily log of public correspondence via the Wildlife Incident Management System database.

• Participate in public outreach efforts as directed to increase appreciation for wildlife and address conflict wildlife abatement or other wildlife-related issues.

• Assist the regional FWC Public Information Coordinators with media and stakeholder information requests.

• Respond to AskFWC questions about wildlife or wildlife conflict resolution.

• Occasionally support the FWC’s Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program’s management efforts through response activities.

• Remain up to date on Commission rules and regulations regarding protected wildlife, the take of wildlife, conflict wildlife abatement, and related issues.

The Commission expects its employees to be courteous and respectful while assisting Commission customers and stakeholders, ensuring each encounter is as positive as possible. Employees should promptly resolve questions or problems relating to the Commission, its programs and/or fish and wildlife resources. Employees should seek to gain public support for agency objectives and programs by serving Florida’s citizens in a positive and proactive manner and by listening to what the customer wants and striving to meet their needs. When appropriate, employees will explain the reasons for agency actions or decisions while communicating a consistent FWC point-of-view.

Responsible for following the provisions and requirements in Section 215.422, Florida Statutes, related to the Department of Financial Services rules and FWC’s invoice processing and warrant distribution procedures.

Work at FWC is cross-functional meaning duties may cross division/office lines. The Commission expects employees to function across FWC’s organizational structure by providing their skills and expertise wherever needed through work on teams or as directed.

Knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position: 

• Knowledge of the biological sciences and scientific principles of wildlife biology, ecology, and conservation.

• Exemplary customer service skills and an ability to interface effectively with the public over the phone on a daily basis regarding sensitive topics.

• Ability to develop and effectively present educational outreach material to adult audiences

• Skilled in the use of computers for word processing, information management, communications, data management, and mapping.

• Knowledge of and experience with wildlife damage control techniques.

• Ability to identify native and non-native wildlife.

• Knowledge of wildlife issues in Florida.

• Ability to work well both independently and in a team-setting in a fast-paced work environment, accurately record data, and meet deadlines with minimal, remote supervision.

• Good organizational and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

• Ability to effectively communicate and work with the public, stakeholder representatives and coworkers.

• Skill in providing good customer service.

• Ability to safely operate a vehicle.

• Ability to travel overnight less than 25% of the time.

LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION OR REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS:

Valid Florida driver’s license

WHAT BENEFITS ARE APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan - mandatory

• Workers’ Compensation - mandatory

• Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) - mandatory

• Participation in state group insurance (upon meeting eligibility requirements)

• Deferred Compensation - voluntary

• Employee Assistance Program – voluntary

 WHAT BENEFITS ARE NOT APPLICABLE TO OPS EMPLOYEES?

• Any form of paid leave

• Paid holidays

• Participation in the Florida Retirement System

• Reinstatement rights or retention rights

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.

Nearest Major Market: Fort Myers
Nearest Secondary Market: Cape Coral

Seasonal Bird Stewardship Coordinator - Audubon (Sarasota, FL)

Sarasota Seasonal Bird Stewardship Coordinator

Audubon Florida

Sarasota, FL

APPLY ONLINE AT: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/5564/sarasota-seasonal-bird-stewardship-coordinator/job

Position Summary

Audubon Florida seeks a seasonal Bird Stewardship Coordinator to support beach-nesting bird conservation work in Sarasota County. The Coordinator will work on beaches throughout Sarasota County, a shoreline distance of about 37 miles, but predominantly in the central and northern portions of the county where shorebirds and seabirds have nested historically, on Lido Key, Siesta Key, and Longboat Key. Nesting species surveyed include Black Skimmers, Least Terns, and Snowy Plovers.

During the breeding season from March through August, the Coordinator will be responsible for independently performing bird monitoring and stewardship work for beach-nesting birds with responsibilities that include:

• Posting and maintaining symbolic fencing and signage around beach-nesting bird sites.

• Monitoring nest sites at least twice weekly for evidence of disturbance or predation.

• Performing weekly or more bird surveys to include the number of adult pairs of nesting species, the number of nests, the number of downy and feathered chicks, and the number of fledged young.

• Protecting sites from disturbance through stewardship activities that will include coordination with municipal and county staff or landowners to minimize disturbance.

• Recruitment and training of new volunteers; advising and partnering with volunteers to chaperone beach-nesting bird sites during busy weekends.

• Educating beachgoers about these species and encouraging compliance with posted areas; engaging in outreach to user groups through presentations at organizational meetings.

This is a seasonal, full-time, grant-funded position from approximately April 1, 2024 through mid-August. Funding for this seasonal position is provided by the Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund through December 31, 2032. Additional funding may be available beyond December 2032. The Stewardship Coordinator will work remotely out of their home in the Sarasota County area.

Compensation:

$18.00 / hour

Essential Functions

By closely collaborating with Audubon’s Shorebird Project Manager, the Sarasota Seasonal Bird Stewardship Coordinator will:

• Monitor all active nesting sites and perform weekly or more surveys and steward sites as appropriate (to be determined in consultation with the Project Manager).

• Ensure all Sarasota County beaches are effectively surveyed during the monthly Florida Shorebird Alliance beach-nesting bird survey windows.

• Ensure all bird survey data is entered weekly into the Florida Shorebird Database.

• Collect accurate data as assigned and submit associated activity logs on a scheduled timeline.

• Summarize survey and stewardship data required for grant report submissions.

• Contribute photographs and short stories about birds and bird stewardship for use on Audubon website and in social media.

• Train, mentor, and manage volunteers engaged in monitoring and stewardship activities.

• Educate and engage the public around coastal bird conservation through outreach at nesting sites.

• Cooperate with Audubon partners, including but not limited to: Sarasota Audubon Society leaders and volunteers, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission biologists and law enforcement officers, Sarasota County staff, and municipal staff as needed.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, wildlife ecology or related field required.

• 1-2 years' demonstrated experience performing bird surveys required; experience in shorebird and seabird identification strongly preferred.

• Strong verbal communication and problem-solving skills; excellent judgment and decision-making skills, possessing a high degree of integrity in all deliverables.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision and to maintain accountability for work products.

• Demonstrated experience working with external partners and volunteers.

• Ability to move 30 lbs., with or without accommodation.

• Ability to carry field equipment in Florida summer field conditions while traversing up to 5 miles on sandy beaches, with or without accommodation.

• Must be able to work long days, weekends, and holidays as needed.

• Bilingual preferred, but not required.

• Familiarity with Sarasota County beaches and coastal conservation lands of a plus.

• Must have a valid driver’s license and a personal vehicle suited for transportation to complete assigned tasks.

• Interest in conservation and passion for the mission of the National Audubon Society a must.

South Pinellas County Anchor Steward - Audubon (Pinellas County, FL)

South Pinellas County Anchor Steward

Audubon Florida

Pinellas County, FL

APPLY ONLINE AT: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/5565/south-pinellas-county-anchor-steward/job

Position Summary

Audubon Florida supports management of beach-nesting birds at many locations along the Gulf Coast and Northeast Atlantic Coast of Florida by surveying, posting, stewarding, and protecting nesting areas from disturbance. In order to more effectively monitor and protect nesting shorebirds, Audubon is hiring a seasonal Anchor Steward to work at beach-nesting bird sites located in the southern portion of Pinellas County, Florida. Sites requiring stewardship and monitoring will include Fort De Soto County Park and Shell Key Preserve. Nesting species may include American Oystercatcher, Wilson’s Plover, Snowy Plover, Least Tern, and Black Skimmer. The primary responsibility of the Anchor Steward is to organize and train volunteers to minimize disturbance by conducting public outreach near shore/seabird nesting areas and to help monitor nesting.

This is a seasonal position working 40 hours per week to include weekend days and the following holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, if nesting persists until the latter holiday. The position start date is anticipated to begin on March 18, 2024 and continue through the end of nesting season, to be determined in consultation with supervisor. Nesting may persist into late August but can end early in the event of a catastrophic event or other total loss of nesting activity.

This position is based on-site within the southern portion of Pinellas County, Florida.

Compensation:

$15.00 / hour

Essential Functions

Under the direction of Audubon’s Shorebird Project Manager, the South Pinellas County Anchor Steward will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Monitor nesting birds and conduct minimum weekly counts of nests, chicks, and fledged young of each nesting species; report data in the Florida Shorebird Database and Excel spreadsheets as directed by the supervisor.

• Assist site managers and partners with installing symbolic fencing around new nest areas as needed.

• Conduct public outreach at beach-nesting sites on weekends and holidays, to target maximum number of beachgoers and prevent nest disturbance. Hours may run longer or change as needed, and overtime is anticipated on holiday weekends.

• Assist with recruitment of volunteers; train and schedule volunteers to chaperone nesting birds and to conduct public outreach at nesting sites on weekends and holidays.

• Work closely and communicate with site managers and other Audubon staff, external partners, and volunteers in a positive and professional manner at all times.

Qualifications and Experience

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong data collection and organizational skills.

• Ability to recruit, train, support, and schedule volunteers.

• Works well independently and with other staff, partners, and volunteers.

• Capability of carrying field equipment in Florida summer field conditions while traversing up to 5 miles on sandy beaches, with or without accommodation.

• Ability to move 30 lbs., with or without accommodation.

• Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation to complete assigned tasks.

• Must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and some evenings.

• Familiarity with Pinellas County beaches preferred.

• Previous experience with shorebird and seabird monitoring and stewardship is helpful, but not required.

• Must have a positive and diplomatic attitude.

• Must have an interest in conservation and passion for the mission of the National Audubon Society.

Shorebird Monitoring & Stewardship Coordinator - Audubon (Pinellas County, FL)

Three Rooker Island Shorebird Monitoring & Stewardship Coordinator

Audubon Florida

Pinellas County, FL

APPLY ONLINE AT: https://careers-audubon.icims.com/jobs/5566/three-rooker-island-shorebird-monitoring-%26-stewardship-coordinator/job

Position Summary

From April through September, the Three Rooker Island Shorebird Monitoring and Stewardship Coordinator is responsible for assisting Florida Park Service staff with beach-nesting bird monitoring and stewardship work at primarily off-shore sites in Pinellas County, Florida. Nesting species surveyed include but are not limited to Black Skimmers, Royal Terns, Laughing Gull, Snowy Plovers, and American Oystercatchers. Stewardship activities will be conducted on Three Rooker Islands, located within Anclote Key Preserve State Park. Surveys and monitoring will be conducted on all islands within Anclote Key Preserve State Park (Three Rooker Islands, Anclote Key), Honeymoon Island State Park, and Caladesi Island State Park. At these sites, the coordinator is responsible for assisting Park staff with:

• Posting and maintaining symbolic fencing and signage around beach-nesting bird sites, as needed;

• Monitoring and surveying nest sites weekly for evidence of disturbance or predation;

• Performing nesting bird surveys weekly, including during five formal, one-week windows (including color band resighting);

• Non-breeding shorebird surveys and band resightings, especially focused on state and federally listed species;

• Data entry, recordkeeping, and reporting as directed by supervisor and by Park staff;

• Helping protect sites from disturbance through stewardship activities requiring motorboat transportation to and from Three Rooker Islands; recruiting, organizing, and working closely with volunteers to chaperone beach-nesting bird colonies during weekends and major holidays; educating beachgoers about these species; encouraging compliance with posted areas; and engaging in outreach to user groups as directed by supervisor.

This is a full-time seasonal position with a start date of April 15, 2024 and ending in September, determined in consultation with supervisor and Park staff. Funding for this seasonal position is provided by the Gulf Environmental Benefit Fund through December 31, 2032. Additional funding may go beyond December 2032.

The Stewardship Coordinator will be based out of their home in the Tampa Bay area. This is an exciting seasonal position for a professional biologist with experience of shorebird/seabird surveys and experience of operating small vessels in nearshore marine waters.

Compensation:

$19.00 / hour

Essential Functions

With direction from the Shorebird Project Manager and designated Florida Park staff, the Coordinator will ensure:

• All sites are posted with symbolic fencing and signage by posting deadlines.

• All sites are surveyed weekly, including during the monthly Florida Shorebird Alliance beach-nesting bird survey windows.

• All sites are monitored weekly for signs of disturbance and changes in nesting status.

• All sites are stewarded to the terms of Audubon’s contract.

• Survey data and band resights are entered into the Florida Shorebird Database and Access or Excel databases as directed by the supervisor or Park staff within one week following the survey date.

• Summaries of survey and stewardship data required for grant report submissions.

• Contribution of photographs and short stories about birds and bird stewardship for use on Audubon website and in social media.

• Periodic cleaning and maintenance of program vehicles, trailers, and boats as needed.

• Training, mentorship, and management of volunteers engaged in monitoring and stewardship activities.

• Engagement of the public around coastal bird conservation through outreach at beach sites and through presentations to user groups.

• Work independently and with other staff as part of a team of bird stewards including on weekends and holidays.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in biology, wildlife ecology or related field required.

• 1-2 years' demonstrated experience performing bird surveys required; experience in shorebird and seabird identification and performing waterbird surveys strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated experience in solo operation of a motorboat in nearshore marine waters with wet landings is required; operating and maintaining equipment including boats, trucks, and trailers a must.

• Demonstrated experience performing fieldwork in challenging coastal marine conditions required including operating small vessels in tides, strong currents and inclement weather

• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision and to maintain accountability for work products.

• Demonstrated experience working with partners and volunteers in a professional manner.

• Strong verbal communication and problem-solving skills; excellent judgment and decision-making skills.

• Must have a valid driver's license and a personal vehicle suited for transportation to complete assigned tasks.

• Ability to move 30 lbs., with or without accommodation.

• Ability to carry field equipment in Florida summer field conditions while traversing up to 5 miles on sandy beaches, with or without accommodation.

• Bilingual preferred, but not required.

• Familiarity with coastal conservation lands of the Pinellas County Gulf coast a plus.

• Interest in conservation and passion for the mission of the National Audubon Society a must.