*Position: *Avian Restoration Ecology Field Position *Location:* Guam
*Appointment:* Approximately March or April through September – December 2015 *Description: *Predation by brown treesnakes resulted in the complete loss of most forest birds on Guam. Reintroduction of extirpated bird species to Guam is currently dependent on creating zones where snakes have been eradicated or greatly reduced. Protecting nesting structures is an additional method that could be used for some species, particularly cavity nesters. The Federally endangered Guam Micronesian Kingfisher is a cavity nester that is extinct in the wild and restricted to U.S. zoos. Working directly with this species on Guam is no longer possible, but Micronesian Starlings (listed as endangered under Guam law) are also cavity nesters and a small population has survived. Efforts to develop snakeresistant nest structures for the Micronesian Starling would not only help this species expand its population but could inform techniques for protecting nesting cavities of Guam Micronesian Kingfishers. In conjunction with a postdoc living on Guam, and under the guidance of Principal Investigator Julie A. Savidge, the successful applicant will: assist in studying characteristics of active Micronesian Starling nests to aid in developing an acceptable nest box and inform placement of artificial structures; help develop and test a nest box or supplemental techniques that create a snake and rat-resistant nesting site; and monitor active nests and use of nest boxes. *Qualifications:* We seek exceptionally motivated applicants with the following qualifications: Strong interest in avian ecology and conservation Experience in monitoring avian nests and banding birds A B.S. degree or higher in a related field Strong organizational skills including attention to detail Comfortable working long hours in high temperatures and humidity, and willing to have a flexible schedule (early mornings, any day of the week) Willing to engage in a variety of tasks including building nest structures and possibly viewing video (which can be tedious) Ability to tactfully interface with a variety of stakeholders and members of the public encountered during field duties. Comfortable handling snakes and rats Demonstrated ability to work with a team and independently Possess valid driver’s license and eligible to work in the U.S. Must have no legal history that would preclude the applicant from working on a U.S. military installation. *Desirable Qualifications:* Previous experience in avian behavioral observations and tropical island ecosystems. Experience and skill with hand and power tools (drills, saws, etc.) *Payment:* $15/hr. A round-trip ticket from the candidate’s current place of residence to Guam, and some housing support will be provided. *Start Date:* No later than 1 April 2015; we seek to fill this position as soon as possible, and selection preference may go to those able to start on Guam immediately or shortly thereafter. This is an 6-9-month position (depending on start date and project progress). *Application Procedure: *To apply, email a cover letter, resume, and contact information for 3 references to Dr. Shane Siers, [email protected]. The cover letter should highlight your previous relevant experience and how it applies to the listed qualification and your dates of availability. These materials should be in a single Word or pdf document. Applications should be submitted by 15 February 2015; however, the position will be filled when a suitable applicant is found. *For more information contact:* The postdoc on the project, Dr. Shane Siers, [email protected], or the PI, Dr. Julie Savidge, [email protected]. -- Shane Siers Please watch my underwater videos at www.macronesia.net
