Coastal Waterbird Program Conservation Fellowship

Location: Barnstable MA, and other locations in southeastern Massachusetts

The Coastal Waterbird Program of Mass Audubon will award a one-year fellowship to a field biologist who is seeking advanced training and experience in applied conservation. The Conservation Fellowship combines field and analysis components of conservation science and wildlife management. The Fellow begins work in the Coastal Waterbird Program at the end of the spring-summer field season conducting a research, policy development, or educational project from October-February. The 2013-2014 Fellow will develop a climate change plan for the Coastal Waterbird Program. Beginning in March, the Fellow trains and supervises field staff and volunteers in conducting research, monitoring, management, and protection of coastal birds and other natural resources, and coordinates field teams. Specific duties include: supervise and conduct research on special projects as directed; coordinate up to 3 field crews (approximately 10 individuals) of field assistants and volunteers to meet research, wildlife management and education objectives of the Coastal Waterbird Program; establish and cultivate relationships with public and private landowners, and with beach managers on regional beaches; educate beachgoers about coastal wildlife protection on a daily basis; coordinate and compile data for state plover, tern, and oystercatcher census forms and write summary reports for specific sites on results and management activities.

Qualifications: Applicants should have a B.S. or B.A. or higher in biology/management, ecology, zoology, environmental science, or related field, or equivalent experience. Six-twelve months previous supervisory and field coordination experience, and experience in data analysis and interpretation required. Six-twelve months prior experience with piping plover/tern/avian field monitoring, data collection and management required; experience in Massachusetts preferred. Applicants should have demonstrated experience utilizing judgment in field-based wildlife research and management projects. Experience in behavioral data collection, band-reading, wildlife tracking, coastal wildlife management issues, and GIS mapping preferred. Small boat-handling experience preferred. Applicants must have strong interpersonal skills, be in good physical condition, able to lift approximately 40 lb, and walk extended distances on beaches and other terrain. Employee must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and odd/long hours (dependent upon wildlife and weather), and have their own vehicle.

Compensation and Benefits: This is a full time position from March through September, and half-time to full-time from October through February depending on funding. A benefits package includes medical and retirement. Housing available for payroll deduction of $25-35/wk if needed. Mileage reimbursement will be provided. Rate of payment is $14.50-$15.50/hour depending on experience. Office space provided at Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary, Barnstable, MA. For more information, visit www.massaudubon.org/cwp.

To inquire about this position:
Interviews will start immediately, and position will be filled by Sep 1, 2013. To apply, please send a cover letter, resume and list of three references via email with “Conservation Fellowship” in the subject line.
coastalbirdjobs@massaudubon.org 

Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as interviews will begin immediately.