Marsh Bird Research Tecnicians - Saskatchewan

Bird Studies Canada invites applicants for seasonal research technicians to work for the Prairie & Parkland Marsh Monitoring Program. Successful applicants will conduct ecological fieldwork at locations in Canadas Prairie Provinces.

Duties include:

• avian point-counts using call-broadcast methods,
• establishment of survey stations,
• assessments of wetland habitats,
• assisting with bird capture and banding efforts,
• and data entry.

Ideal candidates will be

• detail-oriented,
• self-organized,
• motivated,
• energetic team players.

Applicants should have

• a keen interest in birds,
• be in good physical condition,
• possess a strong work ethic,
• have an ability to multitask,
• be meticulous in collecting and recording data,
• and be able to maintain a positive attitude while working long, irregular hours (morning surveys begin as early as 4 a.m., evening/night surveys can end as late as 3 a.m.).

Candidates need to be able to

• demonstrate proficiency at identifying western birds by sight and sound (particularly wetland-associated species and land birds likely to occur within the region),
• must hold a valid drivers license,
• and be eligible to work in Canada.

Salary from $1,900 to $2,300/month (Cdn.), depending on experience; accommodation will be provided (some combination of houses, motels, and camping). Preference will be given to candidates who have prior experience conducting avian point counts, identifying common wetland flora, driving 4WD trucks, traveling by kayak or canoe, interacting with rural landowners, and navigating using maps, aerial photos, and GPS. Positions range from 1.5-3.5 months beginning early- to mid-May and ending 30 June, 31 July, or 15 August.For more information or to apply, contact prairieprograms@birdscanada.org. Applications should address Dr. Kiel Drake; please include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references. In the cover letter, provide an honest assessment of your bird identification skills. Positions filled as soon as suitable candidates are found. Applications accepted until 29 February, 2012. For more information about the Prairie & Parkland Marsh Monitoring Program visit www.birdscanada.org/volunteer/ppmmp.