Position Description: Klamath Bird Observatory (www.KlamathBird.org) seeks to fill a position with primary responsibilities to support avian long-term monitoring and applied ecology studies to advance bird conservation. We are seeking an applicant that is excited to contribute to the many facets of field research both during and outside of the field season. The Field Technician will assist with managing day to day operations of our point count field crew and implement point count surveys as needed. Opportunities may be available to contribute to other bird survey methodologies depending on annual needs and applicant experience. The Field Technician will provide project support to KBO staff in data entry, data management, data analysis, GIS, study design, report writing, and other tasks. Applicant should be flexible to take on odd jobs as needed. This position is based in Ashland, Oregon and requires regular travel throughout southern Oregon and northern California during May through early-July. Annual salary $28,000 to $29,000 plus benefits.
Job Duties (to include, but not limited to):
- Assist KBO Research Biologist with oversight and implementation of the point count field crew
- Assist with point count field training, including a two-week training at the onset of the field season and/or ongoing training throughout the season as determined by project needs annually
- Implement point count surveys as needed, extent of field work will vary from year to year
- Complete data entry and data management including quality control checks
- Lead professional and community science field trainings and public field trips
- Provide project support to KBO staff in data entry, data management, data analysis, GIS, study design, report writing, and other tasks
- Manage a fleet of field vehicles throughout the year
- Complete odd jobs (e.g. facility maintenance, office organization) as needed
- Communicate about KBO’s science to partners and community
Minimum Qualifications
- Combination of education and experience equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in the Natural Sciences
- Two seasons of point count experience and proficient with identification of western birds by sight and sound
- Willingness to work independently, or in a small team, camping on a regular basis from May-early July for field work
- Good physical condition with ability and positive attitude to work in rough terrain in inclement weather, in areas with poison oak, ticks, biting/stinging insects, rattlesnakes, black bears, and cougars
- Must provide and maintain reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and meet minimum driving record and insurance requirements
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Must have good organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines
- Good attention to detail and ability to multi-task in a busy work environment
- Demonstrate resourcefulness and problem-solving in the field and with office tasks
- Good written and oral communication skills
- Experience in personnel management and supervision of field crews
- Proficient with data entry and data management (Access, Excel)
- Good scientific writing skills; experience with reporting
- Basic computer skills and understanding of file management
- Experience with mapping and study design in ArcGIS
- Ability to represent KBO’s non-advocacy approach of conservation-relevant science to partners and the public
- Experience leading professional and community science field trainings and public field trips
- Knowledge of avian natural history and ecology
- Experience with vehicle and building maintenance and minor repairs