Subject: Osprey Project Field Technicians: Illinois
Are you interested in working with Ospreys this field season? I am looking for four sincere, versatile, highly motivated individuals who have a strong work ethic to conduct field work on a state-listed species: Osprey in Illinois. Our project is to promote population growth of Osprey in Illinois via hacking. “Hacking” is the process of raising and releasing juvenile raptors at the intended sites for establishing local breeding populations down the road.
Successful field technicians are capable of paying attention to detail and following instructions closely. They have to be effective in monitoring and data collection. Field technicians are required to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, and able to ensure data quality and accuracy. Successful candidates need to have good interpersonal skills for working effectively with different stakeholders and partners.
Duties and responsibilities include:
1. Daily Observations – conduct daily behavioral observations of osprey chicks at the hacking site to ensure their well-being. Make notes of presence of potential predators or competitors in the vicinity of the hacking site.
2. Daily Tracking – conduct daily searching and re-sighting of ospreys once they fledge and note their locations before migration.
3. Food Preparation and Feeding – conduct daily preparation of fish and feeding to the hacked ospreys.
4. Planning and Coordination – conduct regular fish pick-ups from the project partners.
5. Daily Reports – submit daily reports regarding the behaviors, locations, and fish consumption by ospreys. Record any other notable events related to the birds.
6. Maintenance – assist with the maintenance and clean-up of the hacking box/tower after the season, as well as the clean-up and inventory of the field gear and equipment.
Requirements:
Successful candidates must have a B.S. degree in wildlife, environmental science, conservation biology, zoology, or a related field. Experiences in working with raptors in the field are highly preferred. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Earth, and GPS is highly desirable. Willingness to travel and flexibility with work schedule are required. Successful candidates must be team-players, demonstrate strong communication skills, follow instructions well, and pay attention to detail. Candidates must have a commitment to field personnel and equipment safety. Candidates also are expected to have strong swimming and kayaking skills. Individuals must have a personal vehicle, maintain a valid driver’s license, and be able to work outdoors in extreme weather conditions for long hours.
Application: Review of applications will start immediately, until the positions are filled.
Starting date: July 1, 2024.
Anticipated ending date: October 7, 2024.
Salary: $688 per WEEK, with free lodging provided (utilities included) and mileage reimbursement when approved.
To apply, please send the following (via email) to Dr. Tih-Fen Ting at tting1@uis.edu:
1) Cover letter addressing background and extent of qualifications;
2) Resume, including contact information for three references; and
3) Transcripts (unofficial or scanned copy acceptable)