Lead Biological Technician

Overview

The National Audubon Society is a nonprofit conservation organization that protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. We work throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. Audubon’s state, regional, national, and international programs, nature centers, and chapters have an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. As a sentinel species, we recognize that the fate of birds is inextricably tied to the fate of us all.

Audubon has more than 700 staff working across the United States and seven countries in 17 state and regional offices, 41 nature centers, and 23 wildlife sanctuaries. Together as one Audubon, we aspire to alter the course of climate change and habitat loss, leading to healthier bird populations and reversing current trends in biodiversity loss.

Audubon is committed to a culture of workplace excellence, where our talented and diverse staff are deeply engaged, with a strong sense of belonging. The birds Audubon pledges to protect differ in color, size, behavior, geographical preference, and countless other ways. By honoring and celebrating the equally remarkable diversity of the human species, Audubon will bring new creativity, effectiveness, and leadership to our work throughout the hemisphere.

Position Summary

The Audubon Center at Riverlands is seeking one seasonal biological technician to assist in our long-term bottomland forest bird surveys for the Upper Mississippi River system. Working under the Conservation Science Manager, Lead Biological Technician will assist in conducting point-count surveys on islands and areas along the Mississippi River during the spring/summer. The part-time lead biological technician will also act as a lead over our other part-time techs and volunteers, and assist in scheduling field outings/survey needs. Technicians will also conduct associated data entry and quality assurance, as well as some data analysis. This position starts May 1st and could last until July 31st (dates may vary due to river conditions) with some weekend and holiday work being required. Housing is not provided. Applicants will be accepted until the position is filled.

Compensation:

$18.00 / hour

Essential Functions

• Navigate study points using GPS and other orienteering methods

• Predominately collect detailed information on bird species locations, timing, and movements

• Record measurements on data sheets and/or field notebook computers

• Meticulously enter data into computer databases

• Collect, record, summarize, organize, and/or file data using various standardized data collection procedures and equipment

• Facilitate monitoring and logistics; this includes putting together survey equipment, assisting in transportation to and from survey sites (by boat and by car), scheduling, etc.

• Assist in teaching other part-time biological technicians bird species ID skills

• Act as a team lead and coordinate part-time biological techs and volunteers during surveys

Qualifications and Experience

• Working to or currently have a bachelor’s degree in Biology, Ecology, Conservation, Natural sciences, or related field required
• Prior experience conducting biological surveys is preferred
• Familiarity with identifying Midwestern songbirds by sight and sound is preferred
• Familiarity with avian point count surveys is preferred
• Willingness and flexibility to work early morning hours, weekends, or holidays
• Strong attention to detail and data entry skills
• Strong organization and communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Must hold a valid driver’s license and have access to a personal vehicle
• Ability to operate light trucks and boats with outboard motors desired but not required
• Boating experience desired but not required
• Ability to work for prolonged periods of time, with or without accommodation, under difficult field conditions such as rugged or muddy terrain, thick grass, forest undergrowth, high temps/humidity, and biting insects
• Ability to lift and carry weights up to 25 lbs., with or without accommodations
• Ability to bend, crouch, stoop, and reach with or without accommodations

EEO Statement

The National Audubon Society is a federal contractor and an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to a policy of nondiscrimination, inclusion and equal opportunity and actively seek a diverse pool of candidates in this search.

Accessibility Statement

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COVID Policy

All new hires must be fully vaccinated prior to their start of employment unless they are pre-qualified by HR for exemption.