We are seeking 2 highly-motivated ornithologists ($16.44/hour plus $18 field per diem) to participate in a large-scale experimental study investigating the response of avian communities to woodland invasions in sagebrush ecosystems. Sampling protocols include variable distance point counts, territory mapping, behavioral observation, nest searching and monitoring, target-netting and color-banding. Focal species include gray flycatcher, dusky flycatcher, sage thrasher, sage sparrow, vesper sparrow, Brewer's sparrow, black-throated sparrow, and green-tailed towhee. Point count surveys will collect data on the entire suite of species and applicants should know or be able to quickly learn western bird species by sight and sound. Last season we detected over 100 species. Vegetation sampling will follow bird monitoring efforts at surveyed nest and point count locations. The primary 2010 study site is located in an isolated and scenic area 60 miles south of Burn, OR on Steens Mountain with additional sampling in eastern Oregon, northeastern CA and southwest Idaho. Preference will be given to energetic, detail-oriented candidates with experience in songbird point-count surveys, nest-searching, territory mapping and mist-netting. Experience creating and manipulating Microsoft Excel documents and using GIS/GPS for navigation and territory delineation purposes is highly desirable. This is a physically demanding job, involving hiking and camping in rugged terrain for 8 to 10 days and extended hours in the field during some periods of this research. Remote field conditions include exposure to wind, dust, heat, cold, and intense sun at elevations exceeding 5,000 feet. These GG-06 positions are full-time, temporary employment, stationed in Burns, OR. The position start date is May 9th and will extend to August 28th, with possible extension based on crew availability and site phenology. To qualify for this position, applicants need 1 year and 9 months of field experience or 4 years of college with courses related to the work of the position to be filled, plus at least 3 months of field work experience surveying songbirds. For inquiries related to the positions, please contact Steve Hanser (208-426-2892, [email protected]). To apply, please send: 1) cover letter indicating field season availability and this announcement number: SRFS-10-002, 2) resume including professional experience (** PLEASE ** indicate starting and ending dates with hours per week worked for each position), 3) three references, and 4) copies of academic transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable). Applications can be sent via mail or email to Michelle Schatz ([email protected]; USGS-Biological Resources Division, Forest & Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 777 NW 9th St., Suite 400, Corvallis, OR 97330). Applications must be received by January 11, 2010.
Steve Hanser Wildlife Biologist USGS Forest & Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center Snake River Field Station 970 Lusk St. Boise, ID 83706 [email protected] PH: 208-426-2892 FAX: 208-426-5210
