SHOREBIRD TECHNICIAN – 1 April (start date flexible) – 31 July 2010. Assist in research activities related to human impacts on coastal barrier habitat and its shorebird inhabitants at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base (MCBCL) in North Carolina. Human impacts include amphibious beach training exercises, recreational use, and the introduction of non-native predators. The objective of this research is to analyze how human activities influence habitat quality and use, and shorebird survival and productivity at MCBCL.
Duties will include, but are not limited to: shorebird surveys, nest searching and monitoring, resighting of color-banded birds, behavioral and foraging observations, and data entry. Training will be provided, but much of the work will be conducted independently. Work hours will be long and may include Saturdays or Sundays. The weather along the beach can vary from cool, breezy or rainy conditions to high temperatures and humidity. The successful candidate will walk 6 to 10 miles of beachfront and/or kayak 3-5 miles each day to conduct field activities.
Qualifications: B.S. in Wildlife Science, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field - experience with band resighting – shorebird identification is a preferred skill. A valid driver’s license is required and experience driving a 4WD vehicle is desired. Boating experience is a plus and candidate must be able to swim and work confidently on the water. Applicant must pass a criminal background check in order to work on the military base.
$400-480 / week depending on experience and housing provided.
Position open until filled.
Send resume including academic background, work experience, overall and major GPA, and contact info for 3 references to: Dr. Sarah Karpanty, Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences, Virginia Tech, 100 Cheatham Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0321, karpanty@vt.edu. (Electronic applications preferred). Virginia Tech is an EO/AA employer.