Avian Ecology Field Technicians

Wildlife Ecology

FIELD TECHNICIANS—AVIAN ECOLOGY

STATUS

Seasonal positions (appointments may range 1–4 months). Work begins in mid-May and concludes in August; field deployments may require up to 6 consecutive weeks of work.

JOB SUMMARY

ABR is seeking several technicians to support avian field studies at project locations in northern Alaska. Projects may include breeding biology of shorebirds and eiders, and aerial surveys for eiders, geese, eagles, and other wildlife. Travel in helicopters and small fixed-wing aircraft will be required. There may be opportunities to participate in ABR’s other wildlife, aquatics, and vegetation projects.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Conduct ground-based and aerial surveys for birds as part of a team. 

• Enter and proof data, primarily on mobile electronic devices. 

• Assist in field gear acquisition, mobilization, and demobilization.

• Participate in job-specific field-protocol training. 

• Participate in safety training and follow ABR’s Safety Policy.

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Experience conducting field surveys of nesting birds and expertise in bird identification is required; experience with shorebird or waterfowl surveys and identifying breeding shorebirds and waterfowl is preferred.

• Be meticulous in collecting and recording data.

• Ability to conduct field work involving wading, hiking and physical labor in remote settings. Must be able to carry up to 22 kg (50 lbs) and work 10–12 hours per day during field deployments in bear country.

• Ability to live and work cooperatively with others, to work independently when needed, and to maintain a positive attitude under a heavy workload.

• Resistance to motion sickness; experience with aerial surveys for birds and/or mammals is a plus.

• Experience in data management is preferred, especially using GIS, PostgreSQL, and R

• B.S. in the life sciences (wildlife biology, ecology, zoology, or related fields) and/or have previous experience as a field biology technician, preferably in the Arctic.

• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States is required if selected for hire.

WAGE

$20–25/h, depending on experience; overtime eligible. Room and board provided only while in the field.

CLOSING DATE

Open until filled. First review 1 December 2023.

CONTACT

Please email resume, 3 professional references with phone numbers (prefer previous supervisors), and cover letter to hr@abrinc.com. If you have any questions about the positions, please contact Rebecca McGuire by email.