Field Assistant needed from 29 April through late July 2019 (end date is flexible, start date is not) for a large-scale study assessing how Black-backed Woodpecker demographic rates vary relative to wildfire and forest management activities. This work is being conducted in the Forest Animal Ecology Lab at Oregon State University (https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fpeople.forestry.oregonstate.edu%2Fjim-rivers%2F&data=02%7C01%7Ceric.schultz%40uconn.edu%7C0c1b1f3ac6634481e8c608d6a21df6c0%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636874646923917199&sdata=qDZ1k9ZvLLhgGiX8sesvxrlXiDBmJdW9JmcJ4jTKops%3D&reserved=0) and will take place in the rugged and scenic Crater Lake area of southern Oregon, an area of exceptional woodpecker diversity. Field work will consist of early mornings, hiking alone in difficult terrain, and working long days under challenging field conditions (cold, rain, intense sun, loose rock, hazard trees), including some weekends. Primary duties will consist of locating and monitoring of Black-backed Woodpecker nests, climbing nest trees, using radio telemetry to measure juvenile survival and habitat use, surveying vegetation, undertaking regular data entry, and assisting with additional project-related duties as needed. Salary is based on prior experience with a range of $2000-$2300/month. Free housing and project-related transportation are provided for duration of field work.
Qualifications: Successful applicants will have demonstrated experience with (1) bird identification by sight and sound, (2) nest-searching, (3) bird handling and banding, and (4) radio telemetry to quantify movement and habitat use. Prior experience with woodpeckers is desirable but not necessary. Successful applicants will also be self-motivated, have a strong work ethic, be in top physical condition, work harmoniously in a group living situation, have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record, and be able to maintain a positive disposition under challenging work conditions.
Application instructions: Email a single document that consists of (1) a cover letter outlining qualifications for the position, (2) a resume, and (3) the name, email, and phone number of 3 references to Dr. Jim Rivers (EM: jim.riversoregonstate.edu) with “2019 Woodpecker Field Assistant” in the subject line. Position will be filled as soon as qualified applications are received.