The San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory (SFBBO) is a regional not-for-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of birds by conducting scientific research, avian population monitoring, habitat restoration, and connecting people to nature. We conduct this work in support of bird and habitat conservation.
We are looking for two people to join our team as field Biologists. Both positions will begin on September 1st or as soon after as possible. One position will continue for 6 months (through February 28 2023) and the other will continue for 9 months (through May 31 2023).
The biologists will assist with surveys at managed ponds in support of the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project (www.southbayrestoration.org). The biologists will receive training and mentorship from SFBBO staff and will develop their skills in waterbird survey techniques and data management. The biologists may assist with additional projects if opportunities arise. The position will require an average of 30 hours per week, with the exact time commitment dependent on the duration of field surveys. The position will be based in Milpitas, CA with field sites throughout South San Francisco Bay.
In this role you will:
- Conduct waterbird surveys and water quality sampling at South Bay ponds
- Conduct surveys in gull colonies
- Work with SFBBO staff, partner agencies, and volunteers to coordinate field work
- Enter, proof, and manage data collected
- Assist with equipment maintenance and other SFBBO projects as assigned
Required Qualifications:
- BA/BS in biology, ecology, or related field OR equivalent work/course experience
- Familiarity with waterbird species of the San Francisco Bay (including shorebirds, waterfowl and gulls)
- Strong work ethic, organizational skills, and attention to detail
- Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and reliable personal vehicle
- Ability to navigate and orient using maps
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Effective oral and written communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Excellent waterbird identification skills
- Experience counting large flocks of foraging and roosting birds
- Off-road driving experience (SFBBO truck provided for off-road driving)
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Access, R, and/or ArcGIS
This role has the following physical or scheduling requirements:
- The ability to traverse uneven, rough, or inclined terrain while in the field in order to carry out field surveys. The individual will be exposed to outdoor elements (mud, sun, dust, salt spray) while conducting field surveys
- The ability to tolerate long field days in remote locations (up to 8 hours)
- The ability to drive company vehicles off-road to remote field locations (SFBBO truck provided for off-road driving)
- Irregular hours on field survey days, including early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends. Most weeks will require 5 days in the field.
- The person in this role will sometimes need to move or transfer materials weighing up to 20 pounds.
- Reasonable accommodations will be made to allow individuals to perform the essential functions of this position.
Our Commitment to Diversity
SFBBO actively engages individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to embracing diversity within our organization because we firmly believe that diverse employee teams help us to achieve our best organizational outcomes and provide the most effective support to the communities we serve. We are deeply dedicated to creating and maintaining an inclusive, equitable and supportive work environment. We strongly encourage people from underrepresented groups to apply. SFBBO believes in growth and supporting our employees as best we can so they can become their best selves in and outside of work. We believe that a healthy work environment means building an inclusive culture where people can thrive together and feel supported and empowered. We believe in stretch versus constraint.
In your cover letter, please feel free to note which pronouns you use (for example – she/her/hers, he/him/his, they/them/theirs, etc.).
We strongly encourage people of all backgrounds and identities, including but not limited to people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender and non-binary people, veterans, parents, and individuals with disabilities to apply. SFBBO is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team. If you need reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, please let us know.
Research has shown that women and people from marginalized communities apply to roles when they meet 100% of the job requirements, whereas people without marginalized identities apply if they meet an average of 60% of the requirements. If you think that your skills are transferable and can add value to this role, please apply so that we can determine whether it’s a good fit.
Salary and Benefits
This is a part-time position. Hours will average 30 hours per week (range of 15-35 hours a week). Compensation is $18-20/hour depending on prior experience. An SFBBO vehicle or reimbursement for use of a personal vehicle will be available for pre-approved, work-related travel. SFBBO will also provide most field gear, including a spotting scope.
To Apply
Complete our online application form, including a CV/resume and a cover letter telling us why you are a great match for our role here.
You will need to sign into a Google account to complete the form. If you do not have a Google account to use or have questions about this opening, you may reach out to Gabbie Burns, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The positions will be open until filled, but we anticipate making a first review of applications during the week of August 15th.
