INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

NTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES in Mexico - Employer: Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory Fort Collins, Colorado. Position: International Program Intern (4 positions available). Location: Janos, Mexico (Chihuahua State). Start Date: 4 Jan 2010. End Date: 28 Feb 2010. Duration: 8 weeks. Overview: This is a great opportunity to acquire a variety of field skills, contribute to an important avian conservation project, and spend the winter in one of the most scenic and biologically rich desert grasslands in Mexico. Grassland birds have exhibited steeper, broader, and more consistent declines than any other group of North American Birds. The Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory's (RMBO) International Program is researching survivorship and home range use of grassland birds on their wintering grounds. This study will take place on the 18,000 ha Reserva Ecológica "El Uno", owned by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), as well as on surrounding private properties in the majestic grasslands of northern Chihuahua.Essential Job Functions: Interns will work alongside Mexican and American biologists to capture and band grassland birds, attach radio-transmitters to sparrows, relocate transmitter-birds twice daily using radio telemetry, and conduct bird abundance (line transects) and habitat surveys. Surveys will be conducted during various times of day, requiring work in early mornings as well as after dark on some nights. Communication with team members during training and field work will occur primarily in Spanish. On site housing will be provided as well as a small stipend to assist with other costs of living. Transportation on and around study areas will be provided, however interns are responsible for their own transportation to either El Paso, Texas or Janos, Chihuahua, Mexico. Qualifications: -a bachelor's of science degree in ecology, wildlife biology, biology, environmental science, or other related field (or be working towards such a degree); - ability to write legibly and record data accurately in the field, as well as enter data accurately into computer spreadsheets; - ability to follow instructions and protocols; - previous field work experience; - ability to use binoculars to track moving wildlife; - excellent hearing and sight; - strong working (intermediate to advanced) knowledge of Spanish; - ability to communicate effectively with crew leaders and team mates; - ability to work well independently and in teams; - comfortable working outdoors in rugged terrain in a remote area with abundant wildlife; - a strong interest in birds and international conservation; - must be respectful & comfortable in communal co-ed living situations; - MUST have a tolerance of adverse weather (temperatures range from 15-75?F), long hours, early mornings, and night work.; - MUST have sensitivity to and comfort with the current security issues in Northern Mexico Preferred skills and abilities:; - strong aural and visual bird identification skills; - experience with handling birds, mist-netting/banding, line-transect or point-count surveys, vegetation surveys; - at least conversational Spanish speaking skills. Closing date: 30 Nov 2009. However, positions will be filled as suitable applicants are found. To apply, send a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications, CV, and names and contact information for at least three references to LONI BEYER (EM: loni.beyer AT RMBO.org). You may also send application materials by mail to: Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory, Attn: LONI BEYER, 230 Cherry St, suite 150, Fort Collins, CO 80521. For questions email Loni or call (PH: 970-482-1707 ext 15).