One experienced avian field team leader is needed for surveys of breeding Black Terns in the Great Lakes region, conducted out of the University of Minnesota. The team leader will head one of two survey teams working in either Michigan and New York, or Wisconsin and Minnesota during the Black Tern breeding season. Teams will travel between wetland survey sites throughout the season. Food and lodging (mostly at campgrounds) in the field will be provided, and lodging will be available in St. Paul, MN, as needed for the first and last weeks of employment.
Responsibilities: Responsibilities of the field team leader include (1) hiking or kayaking in wetlands to count Black Tern nests and/or adults flying above the colony, (2) communicating with land owners and finalizing the team’s schedule for visiting assigned wetland survey sites, (3) keeping detailed records of surveys and communicating regularly with the project leader about progress, (4) supervising one field assistant who will help with the surveys, (5) securing and caring for field equipment, and (6) managing the team’s project-related expenses and regularly submitting receipts for reimbursement. The field team leader will also assist with preparation of field equipment at the beginning of the field season and with data entry and validation at the end of the season. Qualifications: Applicants should have experience in conducting avian field surveys and nest searches; experience with marsh birds or colonial waterbirds a plus. Candidates who have or are working towards a B.S. or B.A. in wildlife biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field are preferred. Strong communication, organizational, and money management skills are critical. Applicants should be able to swim, have prior kayaking or canoeing experience, and be able to lift 50lbs. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license. Applicants should be willing to work a flexible weekly schedule, with the timing and number of days off dependent on weather and land owners’ schedules. The successful candidate will demonstrate a positive attitude towards working outdoors in wet, muddy, summertime conditions, and an ability to embrace the unexpected. Approximate Dates of Employment: May 26 – July 18, 2014 Compensation: $14/hour To apply for this position, please send the following materials to Kate Wyman ([email protected]) in a single MS Word or PDF document: cover letter, resume, and contact information for three people who can comment on the applicant’s ability to meet the job requirements. Applications will be reviewed beginning on February 24th, 2014.
