We are seeking a Seasonal Wetland Ecologist to monitor waterbirds and their semi-permanent wetland habitat. Monitoring is part of BirdReturns, a multi-partner program that incentivizes landowners to provide seasonal habitat for shorebirds, waterfowl, and other species. Most work will be conducted in the Suisun Basin (vicinity Fairfield), but some travel to work in other Central Valley wetlands should be expected. The biologist will help assess how program-affiliated wetlands support waterbird conservation. This seasonal, field-based position requires strong bird identification skills; ability to maintain datasets and support analysis; education and/or experience in environmental science, ecology or related fields; and a willingness to work collaboratively with a variety of partners.
Duration: April 1 – August 31, 2024
Position Description:
The Seasonal Wetland Ecologist’s duties will consist of identifying birds at wetlands using a standardized point count protocol. Wetland habitats will be monitored using a variety of observational and physical sampling methods. Data entry is usually conducted on digital platforms, and post-collection data management duties include proofing data, maintaining shared databases, and supporting analysis. Additional observational surveys of bird breeding, foraging, and molting activity will also be collected. Throughout their work, the biologist will need to be in active communication with landowners, land managers, and several partner organizations.
Main Qualifications:
- A combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, plus 1-3 years of experience in environmental science, wildlife conservation, ecology, or related fields
- Demonstrated ability to identify waterbirds of Central/Northern California, particularly shorebirds and waterfowl
- Prepared for solitary field work involving navigation to various sites; bird and wetland habitat surveys; and maintaining digital records
- Ability to collect, maintain, and proof data, and entry level technical knowledge relating to data analysis (such as calculating summary statistics and understanding data analysis and figures presented in technical reports)
- Strong communication skills to coordinate activities with a wide variety of program participants and partners
- US driver’s license with three years of good driving history (no more than one moving violation in those three years)
- Ability to use a personal vehicle with proof of insurance. Mileage is reimbursed at the Federal rate
- Ability to hike in uneven or shallowly-flooded terrain while carrying gear and/or backpack
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior work in California’s Central Valley and/or in wetlands
- Demonstrated ability to identify other wetland-associated birds, such as songbirds; ability to identify birds by their vocalizations
- Familiarity with digital data entry platforms, such as Survey123
Location: Solano County (primary) and the Central Valley region, CA
Job type: Full-time (40-hr/week), Seasonal
Compensation:
$27.62 -$32.45 per hour, based on experience and internal equity Benefits limited to up to 40 hours of paid sick time. Use of a personal vehicle will be reimbursed at the federal rate. Housing is not provided.
