Research Associate

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 Research Associate will report to Audubon Florida’s Director of Research at the Everglades Science Center. Their primary responsibilities will be a combination of fieldwork and office projects. This is a full-time position monitoring prey base fish populations in the mangrove zone of Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park, and the Florida Keys. Scientific responsibilities will primarily consist of the collection of fishes in the mangrove habitats of Florida bay, analyses of fishes, submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) surveys, and maintaining data accuracy in a database. Additionally, the research associate will also need to work with and maintain physical data.

Fish populations are monitored using a 9M2 drop system, throw traps, and seines. In addition, the submerged aquatic vegetation surveys is conducted using a quadrat while snorkeling. Field data will be collected from, powerboats, rowboats, canoes and kayaks.

Essential Functions

• Collect, identify, preserve, and catalogue aquatic vegetation, fish and macroinvertebrates.
• Maintain and analyze database information.
• Prepare and maintain detailed records, log and summarize reports of all procedures and results.
• Participate in group projects to maintain the base facility and improve operations.
• Responsible for the maintenance of vehicles and all assigned field gear.
• Assist with site preparation and construction (as needed).

Other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field required; or equivalent field experience of a minimum of 1 year experience working in marine, estuarine, or wetlands ecology environments.
• Understanding and respect of the scientific method is paramount.
• Computer experience and familiarity with spreadsheet and database programs are required.
• Excellent work ethic, a team-focused attitude, and the ability to work well independently in the field.
• Experience in Florida’s estuaries, mangrove forests and/or coastal wetlands, sampling and identification of fishes is desirable.
• Meticulous attention to detail with a high level of accuracy and a can-do attitude are essential.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Ability to operate, maintain and repair mechanical equipment such as trucks and boats.
• Ability to work long hours in the field, sometimes alone, in sub-tropical wetland environments, exposed to the harsh South Florida environment (sun, heat, biting insects, wading in water or mud) with or without accommodation.
• Must be able to traverse 3-8 miles a day and lift up to 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.
• Ability to perform tasks requiring physical exertion, outdoors, in all weather conditions and on difficult terrain with or without accommodation.
• Ability and willingness to working in murky waters that serve as the home for potentially dangerous wildlife such as crocodiles, sharks and venomous snakes. Some projects may involve travel in helicopters and small, fixed-wing aircraft.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other web-based applications.

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.