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Job Opening: Tufted Puffin Bill Load Photography Technician (OR)

The Seabird Oceanography Lab at Oregon State University is hiring one seasonal field technician from 7/11/2022 to 8/17/2022 to conduct bill load photography of tufted puffins, monitor disturbances by eagles, and interact with the public. Deadline to apply: 5/20/2022.

Location: Cannon Beach, Oregon

Job Category: Temporary/Seasonal Positions

Salary: $13.50/hr (200 hrs of work)

Start Date: 7/11/2022

Last Date to Apply: 05/20/2020 (applications reviewed on a rolling basis)

Website: https://blogs.oregonstate.edu/coastaloregonbirds/

Description: The Seabird Oceanography Lab at Oregon State University is hiring one (1) seasonal field technician from 7/11/2022 to 8/17/2022 (38 days, 200hrs of work in total) to conduct bill load photography of tufted puffins, monitor disturbances by eagles, and interact with the public. The field work will occur in Cannon Beach, Oregon. There will be a brief training period in Newport, Oregon to review field protocols and collect necessary equipment (7/11-7/12).

The technician must be able to work solo with minimal supervision. Field work will be scheduled to capitalize on low tides and conditions suitable for photography. This includes very early mornings and weekends. It is anticipated the technician will spend 4-6 hr in the field each day when conditions are good. Experience in technical wildlife photography is highly advantageous.

The successful applicant should be able to carry loads upwards of 30 lbs. Applicant must have up-to-date covid vaccinations and be willing to follow evolving CDC guidelines. Accommodation will be provided from 7/11/2022 to 8/17/2022. Applicants are expected to be able to provide their own vehicle, but mileage will be reimbursed at 0.585/mile up to 680 miles (We expect about 650 miles are necessary to complete the duties of the position).

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Photograph tufted puffins and other marine birds carrying bill loads at Haystack Rock
  • Document disturbances by eagles and other causes during photography sessions
  • Curate photos on a regular basis
  • Use field notebooks, datasheets, and a laptop to maintain records and databases
  • Regularly clean and maintain camera gear
  • Conduct all work in accordance with the Oregon State University safety requirements
  • Maintain professional and positive working relationships on the job and in living quarters

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Ability to work in the United States
  • Capable of keeping track of an independent working schedule determined by tides and weather that includes early mornings and weekends
  • Technical photography experience
  • Bird observing experience
  • Computer skills including Microsoft Office and Google Suite
  • Proven track record of working in a safe and efficient manner
  • Ability to lift and carry 30lbs
  • Ability to work in cold conditions

Preferred Qualification:

  • Experience and skill photographing birds with at least a 300mm lens
  • Strong interest in ecology, marine birds, and conservation

To Apply Applicants should create a single PDF file that contains: 

  1. Cover letter that highlights relevant skills.
  2. Full-length resume or CV
  3. Names and contact information (email and telephone) of three references who may be contacted.

Email this document to rachael.orben@oregonstate.edu with “Tufted Puffin Technician Application” in the subject line. Questions may be addressed to the same email. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and hiring decisions will be made by 6/10/2022.

Contact Person: Rachael Orben

Contact Email: rachael.orben@oregonstate.edu