Description:
AVIAN FIELD TECHNICIANS needed for a large-scale study of breeding birds across Idaho (mid-May through mid-July) with the Intermountain Bird Observatory (IBO) at Boise State University. Duties consist of standardized point-count surveys, vegetation surveys, and data entry using Integrated Monitoring in Bird Conservation Regions (IMBCR) protocol. Technicians will identify over one hundred bird species while traveling across a wide variety of habitats including, but not limited to: grassland, sagebrush steppe, riparian, pinyon-juniper, montane forest, and alpine.
This is a full time position for the duration of the project (May-July). Hourly pay rate is $13-16/hr DOE (PLUS a $30/day per diem which amounts to an additional, non-taxable ~$1,000 over the season). **There may be a possibility for extension following the field season to proof data or potential for an internship at our fall migration site at Lucky Peak. Technicians must have a valid driver’s license and either use their personal 4WD vehicle (work-related mileage will be reimbursed at a rate of at least $0.50/mile) or IBO can provide a rental SUV.
Similar positions available in Utah. See job posting here.
Qualifications include:
- Ability to identify 100+ species of western birds primarily by sound and sight, including southwest desert species
- Ability to work independently (alone ≥90% of the time) in remote areas for the duration of the field season
- Strong physical and mental endurance to complete 1 survey per day per 10-day hitch and work long days, often with extensive driving between surveys
- Ability to navigate off-trail in remote, densely-vegetated, steep and rugged landscapes using topographical maps and GPS units
- Willingness to work in landscapes occupied by apex predators and/or venomous wildlife (bears, mountain lions, rattlesnakes)
- Ability to carefully navigate rough, unmaintained roads in a 4WD vehicle
- Careful and accurate data collection/entry/management
- Strong interpersonal skills for communicating and working effectively with program managers, fellow technicians, and private landowners
- Technicians must provide their own camping/backpacking gear
We strongly encourage technicians to expand their skill set with hands-on experience of other IBO projects throughout the field season. Other IBO summer research projects typically include: Northern Goshawk breeding surveys and banding, hummingbird banding, Long-billed Curlew nest-searching and satellite transmitter deployment, MAPS songbird banding, Yellow-billed Cuckoo surveys, and woodpecker surveys. Please browse our website for more info.
To apply:
Email a single pdf document that includes a one-page cover letter describing your interest and qualifications for the position, your dates of availability, your resume, and three professional references to Jeremy Halka (jeremyhalka@boisestate.edu). Positions will be filled as soon as suitable applicants are found.