JOB ANNOUNCEMENT – NEST-SEARCHING FIELD TECHNICIAN SW OREGON

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JOB ANNOUNCEMENT – NEST-SEARCHING FIELD TECHNICIAN SW OREGON
Pay Rate: $13.95/hr.
Duration: ~April 15 – July 30, 2021 (exact dates TBD)
Primary Location: 40 min. east of Ashland, OR

Klamath Bird Observatory (https://klamathbird.org/) is seeking to fill a Field Technician position in our Oregon Vesper Sparrow demography research program. We are contributing to a range-wide study to understand causes of decline in this imperiled subspecies. Primary duties will include nest-searching and monitoring, color-band resighting, and vegetation surveys in meadows of the western Cascades, and associated data entry based out of our office in Ashland, Oregon.

EXPECTATIONS: Primary duties will be nest-searching and monitoring, color-band resighting, vegetation surveys, and data entry. The Field Technician will also assist in supervising one intern. Previous nest-searching experience is required, and additional experience in the other field methods is preferred. Training in specific protocols will be provided. Ability to use your own vehicle (typically on paved or improved dirt roads; 4WD is not necessary), and willingness to camp for the duration of the field season are required. We can provide suggestions for free rustic camping options near field sites.

QUALIFICATIONS: Previous nest-searching experience and ability to see full range of colors are required. Experience searching for grassland bird nests using parental behavior and identifying common western grass species is preferred. Applicants should be prepared to start at dawn, work in the field in all types of weather, carefully follow protocols and meticulously record data, be in good physical condition, and possess good communication skills. Applicants must enjoy the outdoors, and be willing to work in areas with biting insects and the potential to encounter rattlesnakes, black bears, and cougars. It is essential that the applicant be comfortable with camping and working independently in the field (but near rural highways, and within a 40-min. drive of Ashland).

COMPENSATION: The Field Technician will be paid $13.95/hr., not to exceed 40 hrs./wk. Transportation to Ashland, OR, and personal field and camping gear are the responsibility of the applicant. Applicants must have a car, valid driver’s license, current insurance, and be able to provide their driving record upon request. Use of a personal vehicle for work purposes will be required, and the Field Technician will be reimbursed for mileage at $0.56/mile.

TO APPLY: Send cover letter including your dates of availability and vehicle type, and contact info for 3 references by email to Dr. Sarah Rockwell (smr@klamathbird.org). We will review applications on a rolling basis, starting immediately and continuing until the position is filled. Note that offers are contingent on the status of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent health and safety mandates throughout the field season.