17 Seasonal Field Technician Positions for Seabird Ecology/Restoration

The Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Oregon State University has openings for 17 Field Technician positions within a Seabird Ecology/Restoration Project studying diet and behavioral ecology of Caspian terns, double-crested cormorants, and several gull species in coastal and southeast Oregon, the interior Columbia River basin, and the San Francisco Bay area. Studies will include on-colony behavioral and productivity observations, surveys to determine nesting and foraging distribution (using vehicles, boats, and aircraft), and diet sampling to determine the diet of piscivorous waterbirds. This is an on-going project in collaboration with researchers from the USGS - Oregon Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit and Real Time Research, a private consulting firm. These positions will provide excellent field research experience and the employees can expect to learn a great deal about seabird biology.

Based: Seasonal Field Technician positions will be based in Astoria, Oregon; Adel,

Full time seasonal position with anticipated starting dates of March 16, 2009 in Astoria, Pasco and San Francisco and April 15, 2009 in Summer Lake and Adel. Anticipated ending date for these positions is July 31, 2009, except at Adel where the end date may be as late as late as September 15. Some positions may go longer. 

Applicants must possess and maintain a current, valid Driver’s License. Seasonal technicians will be employed through a temporary agency and will be required to pass a drug screening and background check.

Applicants should have a strong interest in avian ecology, feel comfortable piloting and working on small boats, and be a good swimmer. Preference will be given for knowledge of boat operation, seabird behavior, fish identification experience, firearm use, and possession of a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Science or a related field.

Positions require long hours of data collection, often in suboptimal conditions (wet, cold, windy, or hot), with infrequent and irregular time off. The work is physically strenuous and involves crawling on knees, bending over or stooping, and sitting for extended periods of time using binoculars and spotting scopes. All duties must be performed with a high degree of quality, uniformity, and timeliness. The employee must work as a team member and may be required to live and work in close quarters and in isolated settings for extended periods of time. Shared housing will be provided.

A complete application must consist of: 1) A one page cover letter addressing your qualifications as they relate to the specific requirements, qualifications and duties described above, 2) a professional resume, and 3) a list (including telephone numbers and email addresses) of three references familiar with the applicant's professional qualifications. For full consideration apply by January 5, 2009.

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