Job Opening: Waterbird Counter (MI)
Fall Migration Waterbird Counter. Deadline to apply: 7/31/2020.
Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on the shore of Lake Superior, Whitefish Point is the premier migration watch site in the state. Whitefish Point Bird Observatory, a program of Michigan Audubon, is seeking a Fall Migration Waterbird Counter that can provide accurate waterbird identification and reporting, while providing educational interpretation to site visitors. Applicant must possess strong waterbird and general bird identification skills. Prior field experience is highly preferred. Duties include conducting the daily count, interacting with visitors, completing field data forms, posting daily results, and additional field duties as assigned. Preparing and conducting an end-of-season presentation and/or reports are also required. While the position requires a great deal of independence, it will be supported by staff from Michigan Audubon’s headquarters. Consistent, clear, professional communication with supervisors, colleagues, stakeholders, and visitors is a must.
Dates:
This is a seasonal position from August 15, 2020, to November 15, 2020. A final season report is due November 22, 2020.
Time Commitment:
Approximately 8 hours per day beginning at dawn, 5 days/week with some longer days and weeks during peak migration.
Job Type:
Temporary, non-exempt
Application Deadline:
July 21, 2020
Compensation:
$4,000-5,000 total for the contract period; includes housing.
To Apply:
Applicants should submit one PDF document including: cover letter, resume with relevant experience, and contact information for three references (include phone and email) to Linnea Rowse at lrowse@michiganaudubon.org. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.
Number of Openings:
One
Qualifications and Requirements:
Familiarity with waterbird migration and experience identifying all eastern North American waterbirds is required. Enthusiastic, dedicated, and motivated self-starter who can work independently in sometimes difficult conditions. While not required, previous environmental interpretation and/or teaching skills are ideal, but a passion for connecting bird and habitat conservation to the community is essential.
Applicants should have experience interacting with the public and excellent interpersonal skills.
Careful data collecting skills are a must. Must be computer/tablet literate and capable of entering and managing data (computer access can be provided). Flexibility to adjust hours to meet the needs of program and organization, including the potential of working overtime hours. Transportation necessary to get from provided housing to count site. This requires a reliable vehicle and a clean, valid driver’s license to operate a vehicle in Michigan. Must have a personal pair of binoculars; having a spotting scope is preferred. Late-season weather is often harsh and very cold, with few people visiting the site in these conditions. A dedicated, self-motivated individual who can both work well with people and endure challenging conditions in a remote location is required.
Contact:
Linnea Rowse, lrowse@michiganaudubon.org
